Constantine P. Cavafy
Overview
Constantine P. Cavafy, also known as Konstantin or Konstantinos Petrou Kavafis, or Kavaphes (Greek: Κωνσταντίνος Π. Καβάφης) (April 29, 1863 – April 29, 1933) was a renowned Greek
poet who lived in Alexandria
and worked as a journalist
and civil servant. In his poetry he examined critically some aspects of Eastern Orthodox Christianity, Greek nationalism
, and homosexuality
. However, he was not always comfortable with his role as a nonconformist.
Greeks
The Greeks, also known as the Hellenes , are a nation and ethnic group native to Greece, Cyprus and neighboring regions. They also form a significant diaspora, with Greek communities established around the world....
poet who lived in Alexandria
Alexandria
Alexandria is the second-largest city of Egypt, with a population of 4.1 million, extending about along the coast of the Mediterranean Sea in the north central part of the country; it is also the largest city lying directly on the Mediterranean coast. It is Egypt's largest seaport, serving...
and worked as a journalist
Journalist
A journalist collects and distributes news and other information. A journalist's work is referred to as journalism.A reporter is a type of journalist who researchs, writes, and reports on information to be presented in mass media, including print media , electronic media , and digital media A...
and civil servant. In his poetry he examined critically some aspects of Eastern Orthodox Christianity, Greek nationalism
Greek nationalism
Greek nationalism has its roots in the rise of nationalism in Europe in the 19th century, and was characterised by the struggle for independence against the Ottoman Empire, culminating in the Greek War of Independence , assisted by philhellenes such as Lord Byron.After independence was achieved,...
, and homosexuality
Homosexuality
Homosexuality is romantic or sexual attraction or behavior between members of the same sex or gender. As a sexual orientation, homosexuality refers to "an enduring pattern of or disposition to experience sexual, affectional, or romantic attractions" primarily or exclusively to people of the same...
. However, he was not always comfortable with his role as a nonconformist.
Quotations
And from this marvellous pan-Hellenic expedition, triumphant, brilliant in every way, celebrated on all sides, glorified incomparable, we emerged: the great new Hellenic world.
In The Year 200 B. C. (1931)
He wasn’t completely wrong, poor old Gemistus Pletho|Gemistus (let Andronikos Palaiologos, Lord of Thessaloniki|Lord Andronicus and the patriarch suspect him if they like), in wanting us, telling us to become pagan once again.
"After the Swim" as translated by Daniel Mendelsohn|Daniel Mendelsohn
What are we waiting for, assembled in the forum?The barbarians are due here today.
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