Opening of Ajax’s ”Deception Speech” (646-653) Translation lyrics
by Sophocles
Great and uncountable lengths of time
produce all things hidden and hide all things shown
and nothing is unexpected, but, instead,
strong oath and stubborn minds are overcome.
For I too—who, in the past, was mightily steadfast (650)
like a sword is from dipping—have been effeminated
in my mouth by this woman; but I am sorry
to leave her a widow and my child an orphan among enemies.