Metaphors In The Poem Ithaka

The poem “Ithaka” by C. P. Cavafy illustrates Foster’s quest theory by using metaphors. Throughout the poem there are several metaphors but overall the whole poem is a metaphor all in itself. The speaker begins to tell you right as the poem begins, “Laistrygonians, Cyclops, angry Poseidon—don’t be afraid of them: you’ll never find things like that on your way as long as you keep your thoughts raised high,as long as a rare excitement stirs your spirit and your body.” The Laistrygonians, Cyclops, and angry Poseidon are obstacles that will cross your path, don’t let them get in your way. It is comparing these three terrifying things to the obstacles you come across everyday and how you can’t let them destroy you. As the first part of Foster’s theory, you the questor must overcome these problems and continue to be happy and let the excitement of adventure rule out these scary things and not let them phase you. The questor’s ultimate goal is to reach Ithaka. Ithaka is that prize you win and it is the greatest gift of all. You begin your journey and no matter what you come across you must keep Ithaka in your head and let yourself get there after taking time you will find you will gain so much more than you’d ever expect. “Keep Ithaka always in your mind. Arriving there is what you’re destined for. But don’t hurry the journey at all. Better if it lasts for years, so you’re old by the time you reach the island, wealthy with all you’ve gained on the way, not expecting Ithaka to