A Man built a shrine to a Hero but found only Gods grant wishes, not Heros.
Babrius Translation (The Hero [or Daemon])
A good man for a hero’s fane assign’d
Space in his court-yard. Here he loved to bind
Wreaths on the altars, rich libations pay,
And, sacrificing oft, devoutly pray.
“Loved hero, hail! thy fellow-lodger bless
“With plenteous gifts.” At midnight his address
Met answer. “Heroes can vouchsafe no good
“To man; for these ’twere meet the Gods were sued
“’Tis rather all the ills that fall to men,
“That we dispense: when seeking evil then,
“Pray us! Ask one, and many I’ll bestow.
“So now to whom to sacrifice you know!”
How do you think an AI might simplify this fable? Here is one answer, and the illustration above was made from this simplification:
The Shrine and the Midnight Voice
A kind man built a little shrine in his yard to honor a famous hero. Each day he draped fresh wreaths on the altar, poured wine, and prayed, “Great hero, bless your neighbor with every good thing.” At midnight the hero’s spirit answered: “Good gifts come from the gods, not from us heroes. We can only hand out troubles. If you would seek misfortune, call on me, otherwise, pray where true help is found.”
Moral
Seek aid from those who can truly grant it; empty devotion brings nothing but disappointment.
Perry. #110