Answer and Explanation:
In both poems Odysseus is portrayed subjectively, since neither poem speaks of him directly, however, in both poems he is portrayed as someone who abandons and is not present. "Siren Song" portrays the feeling of helplessness that homeric mermaids feel, as men are attracted to their singing, but they cannot survive to go beyond this moment. Odysseus is portrayed through these men.
"An Ancient Gesture" on the other hand portrays Penelope's helplessness who also feels the absence of a man, Odysseus. Penele has to manage without him weaving a blanket forever, not knowing if she will ever be able to stop.
In this case, we can confirm that the two authors use characters from Odyssey to portray the theme of helplessness, abandonment and loneliness.