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[197a] for whatever we have not or know not we can neither give to another nor teach our neighbor. And who, let me ask, will gainsay that the composing1 of all forms of life is Love's own craft, whereby all creatures are begotten and produced? Again, in artificial manufacture, do we not know that a man who has this god for teacher turns out a brilliant success, whereas he on whom Love has laid no hold is obscure? If Apollo invented archery and medicine and divination,2 it was under the guidance of Desire and Love; so that he too may be deemed a disciple of Love as likewise may the


1 Agathon here strains the meaning of ποιήτης back to the original and wider one of “maker,” “creator.” Cf. below, Plat. Sym. 205 B.C.

2 Hom. Il. 2.827, Hom. Il. 1.72; above, Plat. Sym. 190f.

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