Catullus - Carmina 1 lyrics

To whom do I dedicate this charming slim volume Just now polished with dry pumice stone For you Cornelius, for you were accustomed to think That my nothings were something When already at the same time, you alone of Italians Dared to unfold the whole age in three scrolls, Learned, by Jupiter, and laborious For that reason have for yourself whatever this little book is And whatever you like, oh patron maiden Let it last firmly for more than one generation