From Homeric Ithaca, to Cavafy’s Ithaca and Joyce’s Ulysses:
Ithaca always stands as a symbol of journey, wandering, and profound return.
As enchanting as the journey may be, it is the return that gives it meaning and distinguishes it from aimless nomadic wandering.
Ithaca is not an easy destination; it is conquered slowly, through quests, trials, and experiences that mature the traveler.
As Cavafy writes:
“Ithaca gave you the marvelous journey.
Without her you would not have set out on the road.
She has nothing left to give you now.”