The Knotted Thong

by Daniel M. Hooley

D.M. Hooley has now reexamined Persius in light of developments in contemporary critical thinking, particularly that which builds upon classical imitation theories. Addressing each of the six Satires as well as the introductory "Choliambics," Hooley contends that one of the most conspicuous features of Persius' verse, its allusiveness, is a key to this desiderated view. The long-recognized, exceptionally high frequency of imitations of and allusions to the works of Horace and others can be seen not as a mark of artistic immaturity but as a technique intended to engage other voices in the expression of a poem's meaning. Seen as an aspect of structural and thematic strategy, the pattern of Persius' engagement with the words of other poets reveals a remarkable and hitherto unregarded coherence in the Satires.