Authors/Gregor Frisch

Poems

• Poem, no date (1581), Gregor Frisch to Hieronymus Reusner; Latin (Source: BP.Erastus.1581-03) (#5896)

from: Thomas Erastus, Theses de sudore, Basel: Leonhard Ostein, 1581

The poem emphasizes the beauty and value of undertaking difficult tasks. It opens with the challenge of understanding the vast and hidden causes of diseases, questioning whether the difficulty should deter efforts to find remedies. The poem asserts that greater effort makes an endeavor more worthy of pursuit. It likens knowledge to a treasure that must be actively protected and sought after, implying that passive guardianship is insufficient.
The text underscores the importance of divine favor, particularly from Apollo, the god of knowledge and arts, suggesting that some understanding remains beyond human reach without divine assistance. It also stresses the necessity of strength and praise in achieving great deeds and honors. The journey of virtue is described as arduous, yet the muse (symbolizing inspiration) prevents the aspirant from failing.
Persistence and teachability are hailed as keys to success, with the ultimate reward likened to a prize awaiting those who persevere and fulfill their duties. The poem encourages relentless pursuit of one’s goals, regardless of obstacles or delays, using the metaphor of Rome's gradual rise to greatness. It concludes with a message of resilience and acceptance: fortune favors the brave and those who seek with reason, and even if one doesn’t reach the highest heights, finding value in moderate achievements is worthwhile.