This paper assesses the rhetorical and lyrical qualities of the Cretan translation of Guarini’s Pastor Fido as O Bistikos Voskos, by analysing passages that either deviate notably from the original or are the invention of the unknown Cretan poet. Comparison of the two dramatic works sheds light on the translator’s tendency to add or expand lyrical passages, thus giving more extended and emphatic poetic expression to the heroes’ emotions and thoughts.