The Song of Achilles

by Madeline Miller

“I find the folly of men amusing.”

I should have known better than to call upon the gods.

A mother’s wishes. In our countries, they were not worth much. But she was a goddess, first and always.

I will never leave him. It will be this, always, for as long as he will let me.

“Tell me.” I loved it when he was like this. “I’m going to be the first.” He took my palm and held it to his. “Swear it.” “Why me?” “Because you’re the reason. Swear it.”