Meaning: The quote by Raymond Queneau, a French poet and novelist, refers to a significant moment in Homer's epic poem "The Odyssey." In this passage, Ulysses (also known as Odysseus) has returned to his homeland of Ithaca disguised as a beggar after a long and arduous journey. He is attending a feast where a bard sings about the adventures of Ulysses, unaware that the hero himself is present. When Ulysses reveals his true identity and the bard expresses his desire to continue singing about his exploits, Ulysses shows disinterest. Queneau finds this reaction from Ulysses to be astonishing.

This moment in "The Odyssey" is significant for several reasons. It reflects Ulysses' complex character and the inner conflict he experiences. Throughout the epic, Ulysses is depicted as a cunning and resourceful hero who faces numerous challenges on his journey back home. However, his return is also marked by a desire for closure and a longing to regain his rightful place as the king of Ithaca. When the bard sings about his adventures, Ulysses is reminded of the hardships he has endured and the toll his journey has taken on him. His lack of interest in hearing more about his own exploits may stem from a desire to move past his past trials and focus on reclaiming his identity and kingdom.

Queneau's interpretation of this moment as "astonishing" highlights the psychological and emotional depth of Ulysses' character. The fact that Ulysses, a legendary hero, does not seek further glorification or validation through the bard's song speaks to his internal struggle and the complexity of his motivations. It also raises questions about the nature of identity and the impact of storytelling on one's sense of self.

From a broader perspective, this scene in "The Odyssey" raises themes related to the power of storytelling and the relationship between the storyteller and the subject of the narrative. The bard's song serves as a form of recognition and celebration of Ulysses' heroic deeds, yet Ulysses' reaction challenges the notion of heroism and the desire for fame. It suggests that Ulysses may be more interested in shaping his own narrative and defining his identity on his own terms, rather than being defined solely by the tales of others.

Furthermore, Queneau's commentary on this moment invites reflection on the role of interpretation and reinterpretation in literature. As a poet and writer, Queneau was known for his experimental and innovative approach to language and narrative. His fascination with the unexpected aspects of familiar stories, such as Ulysses' reaction to the bard's song, aligns with his interest in subverting traditional literary conventions and exploring new perspectives.

In conclusion, Raymond Queneau's observation about Ulysses' response to hearing his own story sung by a bard in "The Odyssey" sheds light on the multifaceted nature of the epic hero's character, the power of storytelling, and the complexities of self-identity. This moment serves as a rich source of exploration for scholars, readers, and artists, prompting contemplation on themes related to heroism, self-perception, and the enduring relevance of ancient narratives in contemporary literary discourse.