Cycnus of Liguria

Riley's Ovid introduces Cycnus as Sthenelus's son and ruler of Liguria. He is related to Phaethon through his mother's family, but the poem says affection made their bond closer still. When Phaethon dies, Cycnus leaves his kingdom. He reaches the Eridanus and mourns along the river and in the nearby woods. Grief reshapes his appearance: his voice sharpens, plumage covers his head and sides, his neck lengthens, and his whole frame takes on the form of a bird.

Cycnus does not rise into the open heavens. He remembers the fire that came from above and fears both sky and air. Instead, he stays among pools and broad lakes, favouring running water over flame. The poem closes this episode with his new life shaped by the loss: the ruler who came to mourn Phaethon now keeps to water and avoids the element that destroyed his kinsman.