On the Nature of Things: De rerum natura
Esolen has focused on the poet, translating the Latin hexameters into accented pentameter in order to capture the dynamics, rhythms, and syntax of the original. The results are both satisfying and readable. Esolen includes an elegant introduction on Lucretius, as well as useful notes. A valuable contribution to students of literature as well as philosophy.(Library Journal)Esolen has the rare gift of being both a fine poet and a lover of languages. His diction is poetic and natural; he has a fine ear for sound, and the translation benefits greatly from being read aloud—as Latin poetry was meant to be. This translation is clear and forceful. It can, and will, be read.(Kenneth J. Reckford, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill)