7

I want to translate I will cast my shadow into Latin. This phrase is inspired from a poem by Horace, that has the line:

Pulvis et Umbra Sumus

My interpretation of this is that we are simply our physical forms and whatever influence (or shadow) we have on the world around us. I will cast my shadow is then meant to be a reminder to myself to cast my shadow - to leave my mark, as it were.

My initial thought is something like this:

Umbra Umbram Iaciam

I'm not sure whether iacio is the right verb for throwing or casting something like a shadow, though, or whether it would even make sense in that usage.

Improve this question

1 Answer 1

Reset to default
8

First of all, umbra must be in the accusative case, so it has to be umbram iaciam.

As to the correctness of the phrase, it is in fact classical: Lewis & Short have meaning I.B.5. of iacio as "To project as a shadow" giving the reference “nullam umbram,” Plin. 2, 73, 75, § 183 sq.

Improve this answer
3
  • Ahh, beginner error on my part with using nominative instead of accusative. That's a great reference, too. Thank you!
    – Adam
    Commented Apr 27, 2021 at 18:35
  • 1
    @Adam On this site, taking inspiration from real literature, thinking critically about the verb choice and not just trying Google Translate (which gives 'Ecce ego inducam super umbra mea') puts you way past the beginner level.
    – dbmag9
    Commented Apr 28, 2021 at 9:19
  • 2
    Thanks! One of the first things I found out after joining this site and started my journey to learn Latin, was just how bad Google translate is.
    – Adam
    Commented Apr 28, 2021 at 13:14

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge you have read our privacy policy.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.