Alciato's Book of Emblems

Emblem 115

On forgetting one's homeland

For a long time, you've neglected your homeland, and forgotten your own, those things whom blood or love gave to you. You live in Rome; nor do you give any thought to returning home, so much has the charm of the immortal city overcome you. Thus the band of Ithacans, who'd been sent ahead, abandoned their country for the delight of lotus, and abandoned their leader too.