Antaeus
Seamus Heaney starts this poem by playing as Antaeus who has much strength and is feared by many people who seek to gain immortal fame. Talking to those who would or could overthrow him, even though he would just be reborn and start all over again until the next hero comes along to fight him. He seems to be depressed for living for one and only one thing. He seems to be a bit arrogant in his profession. Making sure that nobody can gain some kind of princely reputation till they go through him.
He lies in wait until the next person comes along. Speaking to those who wish to gain splendour. Saying that he is their enemy and that they will have to defeat him first. He seems to rest in nature until the time comes when he is to be lifted and to fight, then to return back into the earth until his services be needed again on the next stranger.
The speaker seems to be all powerful and a little wary of his situation. Preying on the unsuspecting for a match in the ring. (I'm thinking of wrestling) Antaeus seems to have no worries and only lives for the day.
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