THE CYCLOPS
Odysseus
It's the wise man who stays home when he's drunk.
Cyclops
What should we do, Silenus? Should I stay home?
Silenus
I would. Why do we want more drinkers, Cyclops? 540
Cyclops
(Yawning.)
Anyway, the ground is soft and the flowers. . . .
Silenus
There's nothing like a drink when the sun is hot.
Lie down there; stretch yourself out on the ground.
(Cyclops obediently lies down, and furtively Silenus
puts the bowl behind his back.)
Cyclops
There. Why did you put the bowl behind my back? 545
Silenus
Someone might tip it over.
Cyclops
You wanted
to steal a drink. Put it in the middle.
You there, stranger, tell me what your name is.
Odysseus
"Nobody" is my name. But how will you reward me?
Cyclops
I will eat you the last of all your crew. 550
Silenus
That's a fine gift to give your guest, Cyclops.
(He quickly drains cup.)
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