Chiefest is water of all things, for streaming + 

Therefrom all life and existence came; + 

And all proud treasure of princes the gleaming + 

Splendour of gold outshines, as the flame + 

Of a great fire flings through the night its rays. + 

But, heart of mine, if thou fain wouldst praise + 

Triumphs in athlete-contests won, + 

Search not, when day with his glory is glowing, + 

For a radiant star more life-bestowing + 

In the whole void sky, than the kingly sun. + 

Even so shall we find no brighter crown + 

Than Olympia giveth whereof to sing; + 

For thence doth the chant of high renown + 

O’er the spirits of bards its perfume fling, + 

When, the praise of Kronion in song resounding, + 

Unto Hiero’s blest hearth wealth-abounding + 

The hymn of his praise they bring. + 