Wasted thus by death on death All our city perisheth. Corpses spread infection round; None to tend or mourn is found. Wailing on the altar stair Wives and grandams rend the air— Long-drawn moans and piercing cries Blent with prayers and litanies. Golden child of Zeus, O hear Let thine angel face appear!
In their world, any major event was the act of the gods. When plague strikes, it is because the gods are angry. They pray to their gods for help, for answers. The Golden Child of Zeus refers to Apollo, the son he crowned with gold. He was deeply important to urban citizens and rural farmers.