Telemachus's Theme Song: "Can't Stop Now" by Keane

Telemachus is an interesting character because he experiences a transformation rather early in the story. This transformation occures with the help of Athena, but it is a transformation nonetheless. Telemachus is a boy who quite early in the story becomes a man. Once Athena grants him his quest to uncover the fate of his father, Odysseus, he turns a new leaf and takes charge of his own life for once.

It really struck me when Telemachus instructed the suitors to leave his property in book 1. "You suitors who plague my mother...for this evening let us dine in and take our pleasure...but at first light we all march forth to assembly, take our seats so I can give my orders and say to you straight out: You must leave my palace! See to your feasting elsewhere, devour your own possessions, house to house by turns. But if you decide the fare here is better...I'll cry out to the everlasting gods in hopes that Zeus will pay you back with a vengeance..." Finally, he shows some authority over his household. It is his home after all, and he has previosly allowed these boorish men to invade and do as they please. This is a positive transformation and it has allowed Telemachus to make difficult decisions with a new sense of authority as the story continues on.

I chose the song "Can't Stop Now" by Keane because I think it illustrates Telemachus's new outlook on life. The song is about moving forward and being unable to deal with other people's problems because you have your own problems to worry about. This song also discusses the fact that you know you told people you wouldn't leave them behind, but now they must accept that you need to move from them in order to find your meaning in life. I believe the following lyrics describe Telemachus's situation: "I noticed tonight that the world has been turning/While I've been stuck here dithering around/Though I know I said I'd wait around till you need me/But I have to go, I hate to let you down/But I can't stop now/I've got troubles of my own/Cause I'm short on time/I'm lonely/And I'm too tired to talk." This verse displays Telemachus's newfound authority of his own life. It talks about leaving behind people you love in order to fulfill your destiny (Telemachus is leaving behind Penelope) and worrying about your own problems instead of just everybody else's.