Invoking Aphrodite

Layne Redmond's 'Invoking Aphrodite' is a lyrical homage to the ancient Greek goddess of love, beauty, and desire. The song's lyrics are a poetic invocation, calling upon Aphrodite to leave her mythological home of Crete and bless a sacred grove with her divine presence. The imagery of altars smoking with incense and the sacred grove sets a mystical and reverent tone, suggesting a ritualistic atmosphere where the divine and mortal realms intersect.

The song paints a vivid picture of a serene and enchanting natural setting. The cold water singing through fruited trees, the shaded bower of roses, and the shimmering radiance of leaves create a lush, almost otherworldly landscape. This imagery not only highlights the beauty of nature but also serves as a metaphor for the divine beauty and grace that Aphrodite embodies. The enchanted sleep that drops down from the leaves suggests a sense of peace and tranquility, further enhancing the sacred and magical ambiance of the scene.

The final verses of the song are a direct plea to Aphrodite, asking her to pour her divine nectar into golden cups and bring her melissaes (priestesses or bees) to life. This act of libation is a symbolic gesture of offering and communion, seeking the goddess's blessings and presence. The song's invocation of Aphrodite is both a celebration of her divine attributes and a call for her to infuse the mortal world with her grace and beauty. Through its rich imagery and reverent tone, 'Invoking Aphrodite' captures the timeless allure and mystique of one of mythology's most beloved deities.