Why are we called Lotus Eaters?

If the internet is like a great, uncharted sea, then its websites can be considered the islands and continents upon which we weary sailors may make landfall.  

Like Odysseus on his return from the sacking of Troy, one can be unavoidably blown off-course and find oneself on a strange voyage through unknown and hostile places. Many contain obvious dangers, where others are subtle; one might be faced with giants, monsters, cannibals, magicians or seductresses. 

There are, of course, those places that are the exception to the rule. At the beginning of his journey, Odysseus and his men arrived at the island of the Lotus-eaters. According to the myth, this was the only island upon which the inhabitants were not malevolent. 

All that Homer tells us of the Lotus-eaters comes from book 9 of the Odyssey:

“Thence for nine days' space I was borne by direful winds over the teeming deep; but on the tenth we set foot on the land of the Lotus-eaters, who eat a flowery food. There we went on shore and drew water, and straightway my comrades took their meal by the swift ships. 

But when we had tasted food and drink, I sent forth some of my comrades to go and learn who the men were, who here ate bread upon the earth; two men I chose, sending with them a third as a herald. So they went straightway and mingled with the Lotus-eaters, and the Lotus-eaters did not plan death for my comrades, but gave them of the lotus to taste. 

And whosoever of them ate of the honey-sweet fruit of the lotus, had no longer any wish to bring back word or to return, but there they were fain to abide among the Lotus-eaters, feeding on the lotus, and forgetful of their homeward way. 

These men, therefore, I brought back perforce to the ships, weeping, and dragged them beneath the benches and bound them fast in the hollow ships; and I bade the rest of my trusty comrades to embark with speed on the swift ships, lest perchance anyone should eat of the lotus and forget his homeward way. 

So they went on board straightway and sat down upon the benches, and sitting well in order smote the grey sea with their oars.”

How could one not find such a place intriguing? Compared to the rest of Odysseus’ journey, it seems like the Island of the Lotus-eaters is the one place of tranquility in a sea of malevolence, deception and death.

Contrasted with the raging cyclone of clickbait, misinformation and misinterpretation that can be found on the other islands populating the vast and stormy internet, we hope that you will find Lotuseaters.com a more calm, thoughtful and nourishing alternative.  

Perhaps you will even wish to abide among us until Odysseus comes to drag you back to the ships.