To Launch a Thousand Ships

Inspired by Madeline Miller’s novel The Song of Achilles (2012), this orchestral composition, To Launch a Thousand Ships, encompasses the breadth and nuances of the Trojan War as illustrated by the characters of the iconic hero Achilles, his companion Patroclus, and Achilles’ mother Thetis. The French horn depicts the warrior prowess of Achilles, and the English horn and oboe capture the soft yet resilient strength of Patroclus. The strings section highlights the comradery of the Greek army, while the bassoon colors the regality of the Trojan noblemen and women. After the blood-pounding launch of the Greek fleet and yearning intimacy of the warriors’ relationship as represented in the first and second movements, the third movement zeroes in on Thetis’ piercing supernatural powers as showcased by the violin’s marcato solo. To Launch a Thousand Ships explores humanity’s fragility in the face of violence and reveals the affective relationships beneath the hero archetype.

First Movement: The Trojan Shoreline

Achilles, the best warrior of his generation, leads the Greek invasion across the Trojan shoreline. Heroes from both armies prepare for battle. The Trojan noblemen and women perch on top of their fortress, anticipating the clash of shields, spears, and iron. Achilles hurls his spear a hundred yards over the Trojan infantry and strikes its commander. First blood is drawn by the Greeks; the Trojan War has begun.

Second Movement: Patroclus’ Supplication

Patroclus, Achilles’ companion, lover, and trusted advisor, recounts their childhood memories, including their loss of innocence and their rites of passage into manhood. Patroclus kneels before the water’s edge in supplication and prays that Thetis will keep Achilles safe.  

Third Movement: The Waves of Thetis

Thetis, the sea nymph, conjures the power of the ocean. As Achilles’ mother and protector, her watchful and vengeful eye spreads a supernatural wave of protection over the Greek army. A grey mist engulfs the Greek battle camps, which hides their location from the Trojan scouts.

Fourth Movement: Aristos Achaion Achilles

The Greek army gathers around the funeral pyre. Achilles’ body and armor is washed and cleansed by Thetis’ servants, who are sea nymphs from the deep ocean. The Greek infantry gathers around the pyre, shaking their spears and striking their swords against their shields. Envious Greek commanders stare from afar; they are too scared to approach the ever-watchful eye of Thetis. Soldiers and nymphs lament, “Aristos Achaion Achilles!” Hail Achilles, the best warrior of a generation!