Prologos sti zoi

Prologue to Life (Prólogos sti zoí) is a philosophical poem by the prominent 20th-century Greek poet Angelos Sikelianós, published in 1917. This work marked a new phase in Sikelianós's writing, following his earlier lyrical poems like The Light-Shadowed (1909).1

Prologue to Life is part of a series of significant works by Sikelianós that also includes Mother of God and The Greek Easter. These poems explore Greek tradition, national symbols, and religious themes, often imbuing them with mystic and universal significance. Sikelianós's poetry is characterized by its lyrical power, rich language, and forceful imagery, reflecting his belief in the world's beauty and harmony. He was a key figure in the demoticist movement in Greek literature, which favored the popular language and traditions over artificial, archaic styles.12