Gorgon (composition) a ceremonial work, used the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra's commission to see its realization. "Gorgon" was inspired by the legend of the three Gorgons from Greek mythology: Stheno, Euryale, and Medusa. Rouse described the creatures in the score program notes, writing: He added, "Since the time of the ancient Greeks, the gorgon has become a symbol for any terror too immense — and too horrible — to be faced. It has thus become an image of sublimated brutality and savagery, perhaps a metaphor for our own private and subconscious monsters." He concluded, "In addition to certain intentional similarities common to musical
USS Euryale (AS-22) purchased 15 April 1943 by the United States Navy and commissioned 2 December 1943 as USS "Euryale" (AS-22), serving as a submarine tender through the war. "Euryale" was decommissioned 7 October 1946, going into reserve until 9 August 1972 when she was delivered to the Maritime Administration with immediate sale to American Ship Dismantler, Inc. for disposal. "Hawaiian Merchant" was one of four Maritime Commission Type C3 hulls ordered by Matson ("Hawaiian Shipper" from the same builder with "Hawaiian Planter" and from Newport News Shipbuilding & Drydock) with custom variants for interior and structure fitted for the intended route and