The Nine Muses - #1 - Erato - the Muse of Lyrics

The Nine Muses were Greek goddesses who ruled over the arts and sciences and offered inspiration in those subjects. They were the daughters of Zeus, lord of all gods, and Mnemosyne, who represented memory. Memory was important for the Muses because in ancient times, when there were no books, poets had to carry their work in their memories.

The Muses were nymphs, born in Thrace, and nursed by Eupheme. Nymphs are nature spirits, protectors of springs, rivers and mountains, who are usually depicted as young girls. The names and number of the Muses varied until the Greeks settled on the 9 Muses, who became known as goddesses of the arts and sciences. They are thought of as living on Mt. Olympus.

The Muses played and sang all of the time and entertained the Gods and Goddesses on Mount Olympus. They also inspired creativity in everyone. The Muses are:

Erato, the Muse of Lyrics
Euterpe, the Muse of Music
Thalia, the Muse of Comedy
Melpomene, the Muse of Tragedy
Terpsichore, the Muse of Dance and Choral Song
Urania, the Muse of Astronomy
Clio, the Muse of Historical and Heroic Poetry
Polyhymnia, the Muse of Hymns
Calliope, the Muse of Epics

(1) ERATO

Erato means Passionate or Lovely. Erato was named Muse of erotic poetry and mimic imitation and is represented holding a lyre. She is also the patron Muse of parrots and crows. She is so named because she turns those who follow her into men who are desired and worthy to be loved. She is particularly fond of the poets of love. In the Orphic hymn to the Muses, Erato, the muse of lyric poetry, is described as the fair one who enchants the sight. Since the Renaissance, she is often portrayed with a wreath of myrtle and roses, holding a lyre, or a small kithara, a musical instrument that Apollo or she herself invented.

One illustration of Erato shows two turtle-doves eating seeds at her feet. Other representations show her holding a golden arrow, reminding one of the "eros", the feeling that she inspires in everybody, and at times she is accompanied by the god Eros, holding a torch.

Muse Erato is known as something of an idealist, frequently looking for the bright side or positive aspect of any given situation. Erato can often be found reading or writing romantic poetry and stories. She is eager to try new things and loves meeting and talking with new people. She enjoys people immensely and is particularly impressed with their humor, generosity and warmth. It is her aspiration to provide inspiration and guidance to people as they explore the various aspects of the arts. It is her desire that all persons recognize their potential as story tellers, poets and historians.

It is suggested that one call on the Muse Erato if your aspiration is to write lyrics, poetry or song.

Sources:

http://www.paleothea.com/GOddesses.html

http://www.vzoners.com/muses/WeeklyProphet/Muses/erato.html