Metamorphoseon: Plectrum

I've been picking my way through Ovid's Metamorphoses for the better part of two months now. The Latin's a bit beyond my ability, so I'm basically translating line-by-line with the help of lots and lots of dictionary searches. One interesting word that I should already know is the imposing-sounding "plectrum" (English pl. plectra), better known as the "pick" used to play guitars (as well as harpsichords).

I will wax lyrical on the splendiferous Metamorphoses as a whole once I finish it (at X.149 at the moment).

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In other news, Fitzgerald's 1920 début This Side of Paradise, is a witty, rather début-novel-ish showcase of literary ability for the young Francis Scott Key Fitz. Shares a number of things in common with Gatsby, e.g. fatal car-crashes, explorations of intimate relationships, and a brooding, unclear concern with WWI. Random poetical interpolations also give it an odd, off-kilter quality that enhances the 1920 it's a mad, mad, mad, mad world feeling. Haven't finished it though, so I will try to reserve judgment until then. Fitzgerald's way of talking (rather not talking) about the war reminds me of Mann's Der Zauberberg. Also, PURPLE ZEBRAS. [Bear in mind, most of this comes from "Book I: The Romantic Egoist." I have yet to delve into "Book II: The Education of a Personage."