Alcaeus was Greek lyric poet born in 620 BCE was an older contemporary and an alleged lover of Sappho, with whom he may have exchanged poems. Alcaeus' experience in war and politics are reflected in his extant poetry, much of it military in nature in addition to this also composed lively verses extolling revelry, gambling, friendship, and the rough life at sea. There are softer subjects, as well: love songs, drinking songs.