Invocation to the Muses (From "The Frogs")

Melpomene

Teller of dark tales

Polyhymnia

Chanter of chased and sacred hymns

Erato

Brazier of love, patron of lovers

Terpsichore

Maker of dance

Calliope

Singer of epic deeds

Urania

Searcher of starry nights

Thalia

Producer of joy and laughter

Euterpe

Weaver of music, spinner of songs

Clio

Recounter of history

Oh Muses, gather together, inspire us!

And the contest began! Well, as you can imagine, it was thrilling! I found myself wavering between them. First, dazzled by Shaw's freshness and wisdom. Then, overwhelmed by Shakespeare's sheer humanity. Until finally, the topic was life and death. Bernard jumped in first to give us his fiery, literally, fiery speech from Saint Joan, which moved us all with its passion and eloquence. But then Will responded, with his psalm from Cymbeline...