Panathenaicus

[1] When I was younger, I elected not to write the kind of discourse which deals with myths^[1] nor that which abounds in marvels and fictions,^[2] although the majority of people are more delighted with this literature than with that which is devoted to their welfare and safety;^[3] nor did I choose the kind which recounts the ancient deeds and wars of the Hellenes, although I am aware that this is deservedly praised,^[4] nor, again, that which gives the impression of having been composed in a plain and simple manner and is lacking in all the refinements of style,^[5] which those who are clever at conducting law-suits urge our young men tocultivate,