Marcus Valerius Martialis (whose dates are approximately 38AD to 102AD) was a Roman poet born in Spain, best known for his twelve books of Epigrams, which satirise Roman life and personalities.

 
Parfum (After Martial)

Marcus, you walk around wreathed in a pleasant aroma,
a mutedly masculine mixture of rawhide and spice,
yet I can’t help but wonder what’s under your perfume-shop aura;
any man who always smells nice doesn’t really smell nice.


Silver Lining (After Martial)

You want whatever you say to be witty, Marcus,
    but your remarks are dense.
At least your wit—assuming it ever comes—
    has something to shine against.



plus (not after Martial)

The Inferno

Bruno, you’re always lending me books that appealed to you,
    and then you’re hurt when I don’t follow through.
Why won’t I read what you suggest? I don’t have time to waste
    and hell, I’ve found, is other people’s taste.

Brooke Clark

If you have any comments on these epigrams,  Brooke Clark  would be pleased to hear from you.