Mineral Stone, or the Highest Medicine

Marcello Palingenio in the Capricorn section of the Zodiac of Life. Marcello Palingenio Stellato was the pen name of Pier Angelo Manzolli, a 16th-century Italian physician whose "Zodiacus Vitae" was a widely read poem combining science, philosophy, and occultism.

Therefore the ancient Sages original: "Sophi veteres" through subtle investigation
Devised a certain stone, and prepared for themselves faithful provisions
That would remain in all places and never perish,
By whose aid they could see various lands and diverse kingdoms,
And learn very many things from many people.
Once, therefore, they implored the somber powers of the gods,
Having first poured libations according to custom:
Praying especially to Mercury, the Sun, and the Moon,
They poured forth such voices from a pure heart:
O glory of the world, O Titan original: "Titan." In classical poetry, Titan refers to the Sun god, Apollo. most beautiful of gods,
O Latonia original: "Latonia." A name for Diana or the Moon, referring to her mother Latona. who scatters the nightly shadows,
O unstable and fleeting offspring of Jove and Maia, Mercury (Hermes), the messenger god associated with the metal quicksilver.
To whom it is given to transform yourself into various figures,
Be present and peaceful, and hear our complaints.
Behold, we few, whose mind is sublime and genius is high,
To whose heart wisdom is constantly dear:
While we strive to see the causes of things and the secrets of nature,
And measure the immense Olympus The heavens or the realm of the gods. in our minds,
We are pressed by poverty, and suffer many inconveniences,
And fail from hunger: meanwhile, the base and mindless common folk
Seize everything for themselves, and gather all the coins for themselves,
Nor does anyone pity us: if we ask for any
Thing, they show the middle finger original: "digitum ostendunt medium." A classical gesture of extreme contempt and mockery. and mock us,
Wherefore, forced to dig the fields, or groom the pack-animals,
Or carry manure from the stables, we can scarcely seek a living,
And we wretches are ordered to serve fools.
Therefore, you gods at least take pity on us,
(If there is any piety and care for the good among the celestials)
And show an easy way by which to live honestly,