but why do you, daughters of Acheloüs,[32] have wings and feet like birds, but virgins’ mouths? Was it since, learned Sirens, you attended Proserpina as she picked springtime flowers? 595 After you sought her through the world, in vain, you prayed at once for wings so you might search above the breakers, and the seas might feel your worry. Gods obliged you, and you watched your arms turn yellow instantly with feathers. 600 So you’d not lose your song, which charms the ear, or the great genius of your tongue, you each retained a virgin’s face and human voice.
