Telemachus speaks of his father's absence and the suitors.

230. Then, Telemachus, who was thoughtful, answered her.

231 "Guest, since you ask and question this,

232 This house was once supposed to be wealthy and prosperous, and perfect in every way.

233 While that person was still in their hometown.

234 But now, the gods who were planning evil things desired a different path.

235 The gods made that person the most unknowable of all.

236 Even if I had been dead, I would not have suffered this much.

237. Whether he was killed together with his companions in the land of Troy,

238 If I had died in my friends' arms, having ended the war.

239 If that were the case, then all of the Achaean forces would have built a tomb for that person, and...

240 After that, a great honor would have remained for me, his son.

241 But now, without any honor, the Harpyia have kidnapped that person.

242 Without even a glimpse of their form, and with no news at all, they left me only with suffering and lamentation.

243 The reason I lament and grieve for my father is not only because of him, but also for other reasons.

244 The gods have burdened me with other hardships as well.

245 Among the lords who rule over the islands, all those with power are...

246. The people of Doulichion, sharks, and those from the deep forests of Zakynthos,

247 Those who control the people of Itake, which is like a rock.

248 They all proposed to my mother and are devouring our house.

249 The mother does not refuse the loathsome marriage, but she also cannot bring it to a conclusion.

250 The suitors continued their feast, ravaging my house,

251 Eventually, it will even destroy me myself."

Simple Japanese

Telemachus complains that since his father's disappearance, the house has fallen into disarray, and suitors are coming to his mother and consuming the family property. His mother is unable to refuse them, and a resolution cannot be reached. The men worry that they may eventually be destroyed as well.

Translation note:

• Harpies: In Homer, they are depicted as wind spirits that steal people away. Telemachus uses this name to describe how his father disappeared without a trace.
• Dulichium, Same, and wooded Zacynthos: Islands around Ithaca. Telemachus says that the men who rule these places and Ithaca are suitors for his mother.
• Achaean forces: An epic term referring to the Greek forces that participated in the Trojan War.
• Suitors: Men who press Penelope for marriage and continue their feast, consuming Odysseus's wealth.