As a scholar in the field of classical literature, I have a deep appreciation for the epic tales of ancient Greece. One such tale that has captured the imagination of readers for centuries is Homer's "Odyssey," which tells the story of the hero Odysseus and his long journey home from the Trojan War. The question you've asked pertains to a critical part of this journey, when Odysseus is held captive on the island of Calypso, a nymph with whom he has been living for seven years.

In the narrative, Hermes, the messenger of the gods, plays a pivotal role in facilitating Odysseus's departure from Calypso's island. It is the god Zeus who, after a discussion with other deities, sends Hermes to Calypso's island with the command that she must allow Odysseus to leave and attempt to return to his homeland, Ithaca. Calypso, though initially reluctant as she has grown fond of Odysseus and desires him to stay with her forever, is compelled to obey the divine order.

Once the decision is made for Odysseus to leave, Calypso assists him in constructing a raft, providing him with provisions and offering guidance for his journey. However, the journey is fraught with danger.
Poseidon, the god of the sea, is angered by Odysseus for having blinded his son, the Cyclops Polyphemus. In his wrath, Poseidon stirs up a terrible storm that threatens to destroy the raft and drown Odysseus.

At the height of the storm, when it seems that Odysseus might be lost to the sea, the goddess Ino (also known as Leucothea) comes to his aid. She appears to him in the form of a seagull and gives him a veil, which is more than just a piece of cloth; it is a divine gift that protects him from the raging waters. The veil keeps Odysseus afloat and ensures that he does not drown, even when his raft is ultimately destroyed by the storm.

Odysseus clings to the veil, which acts as a life preserver, and is eventually washed ashore on the island of Scheria, the home of the Phaeacians. Here, he is found by Nausicaa, the daughter of King Alcinous, who provides him with assistance and helps him to reach the Phaeacian court. It is from here that Odysseus begins to recount his tales to the Phaeacians, which form the bulk of the narrative in the latter part of the "Odyssey."

The story of Odysseus's departure from Calypso's island is a testament to his resourcefulness, determination, and the intervention of the gods in human affairs. It is a crucial episode that sets the stage for the final acts of his epic journey home.

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Hermes, messenger of the gods, is sent to Calypso's island to tell her that Odysseus must at last be allowed to leave so he can return home. ... Poseidon stirs up a storm, which nearly drags Odysseus under the sea, but the goddess Ino comes to his rescue. She gives him a veil that keeps him safe after his ship is wrecked.read more >>