The Lost Temples of Xantoos

by Howell Calhoun

"The Lost Temples of Xantoos" by Howell Calhoun is a poem published in the mid-20th century, specifically in the 1930s. The work falls within the genre of fantasy and speculative literature, exploring themes of ancient civilizations and otherworldly realms. It likely delves into the imagination's power and the allure of lost worlds, particularly those steeped in mystery and myth. The poem vividly describes the remnants of an ancient civilization on Mars, characterized by grand colonnades, opulent altars, and colossal idols. Through rich imagery, it conveys a sense of awe and nostalgia for the majestic temples of Xantoos, hinting at a once-thriving society now reduced to ruins. The evocative language immerses the reader in a surreal landscape, where the beauty of the past contrasts sharply with the desolation of the present, inviting contemplation on the passage of time and the legacy of lost civilizations.