This verse is an invocation by Homer or the orator for divine inspiration from the Muses - who were the nine daughters of Zeus responsible for memory. Therefore, if the repetition of the poem was not enough to demonstrate that the poem was spoken oratorically, then the invocation of the Muses is a clear indication of this. Throughout the Odyssey we also see the strong involvement with the gods, mainly Athena, Zeus, Poseidon and Hermes. Athena watches over Odysseus throughout his travels by arguing his case before Zeus (resulting in Hermes freeing him from Calypso), providing him with words of wisdom, and even transforming him into various forms to keep him safe. The strong involvement of the supernatural in the poem is another hallmark of epic poetry, all in an effort to ensure the preservation of Greek history and culture.