handmade paper; emulsion transfer
penelope's web by night
Book 19: Lines 165-170
This is a shroud for old lord Laertes, for that day
when the deadly fate that lays us out at last will take him down.
I dread the shame my countrywomen would heap upon me,
yes, if a man of such wealth should lie in state
without a shroud for cover.'
My very words,Then, when the wheeling seasons brought the fourth year on
and despite their pride and passion they believed me.
So by day I'd weave at my great and growing web--
by night, by the light of torches set beside me,
I would unravel all I'd done. Three whole years
I deceived them blind, seduced them with this scheme.
and the months waned and the long days came round once more,
then, thanks to my maid--the shameless, reckless creatures--
the suitors caught me in the act, denounced me harshly.
So I finished it off. Against my will. They forced me.
And now I cannot escape a marriage, nor can I contrive
a deft way out. My parents urge me to tie the knot
and my son is galled as they squander his estate--
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