Corinth, between two seas, the eye of the world. Timoleon, called Timo, son of Timodemos, younger brother of Timophanes. Timo growing up, butt of Timophanes the violent. 'Violence? How else did father Zeus win Olympus?' Only winners have respect in Corinth. Timophanes is a winner. Takes power, announces the Programme, becomes the Despot. Yet in battle flinches. Timo saves his life. No thanks, no promotion. Timo's loving friend Kallias tells of a plot against the Despot. 'Timo. They need you. Your turn has come.' The god Hermes whispers to Timo: 'Dagger.' Timo stabs and kills his brother, is exiled from Corinth, spends years in the wilderness. Time alters the past. Gods, too, change ...

LRB 6 August 1992 | PDF Download