Step-by-step explanation:
Sexton's and Gilbert's interpretations of the Icarus myth differ from Ovid's in a few key ways.
Firstly, Sexton's portrayal in "To a Friend Whose Work Has Come to Triumph" focuses on Icarus' moment of triumph, suggesting that his fall was not a failure but rather the culmination of his success. Sexton emphasizes the fascination Icarus feels as he gazes up at the sun before ultimately falling into the sea. This interpretation highlights the idea that Icarus' downfall was a necessary consequence of his daring and ambition.
On the other hand, Gilbert's perspective in "Failing and Flying" also challenges the notion of Icarus' failure. Gilbert argues that Icarus was not failing as he fell, but instead was fully living his life and embracing the risks and uncertainties that come with it. In his interpretation, Icarus' fall is not a moment of defeat, but rather an affirmation of his boldness and defiance of conventional limitations.
In contrast to Ovid's narrative in his Metamorphoses, which portrays Icarus as a warning against hubris and disobedience, both Sexton and Gilbert offer alternative views that celebrate Icarus' bravery and see his downfall as the inevitable consequence of his pursuit of greatness. These modern interpretations focus on themes of triumph, embracing risk, and the significance of living life to the fullest.