Short Answer 
Odysseus’s conflict with Poseidon begins when he blinds the Cyclops Polyphemus, leading to divine retaliation that complicates his journey home. To reclaim control, he cleverly brands the animals Poseidon transforms, showcasing his resourcefulness and dominance, and physically restrains Poseidon to prevent interruptions in his quest.
Step 1: Understanding the Conflict
Odysseus’s challenges begin when he blinds the Cyclops Polyphemus, who is the son of the god Poseidon. This act angers Poseidon, leading him to seek revenge on Odysseus, causing numerous obstacles on his journey home from the Trojan War. The conflict sets the stage for a battle of wits and strength between the mortal hero and the vengeful god.
Step 2: Branding the Animals
To regain control over his fate, Odysseus uses a clever strategy by branding the animals that Poseidon turns into. By doing this, he marks each transformed creature, such as a ram or other animals, to show that he still holds the upper hand. This tactic allows Odysseus to demonstrate his resourcefulness and to keep Poseidon in check.
Step 3: Maintaining Control Over Poseidon
Odysseus further establishes his dominance by physically holding onto Poseidon as he shifts between different animal forms. This action prevents the god from interrupting Odysseus’s journey, enabling him to continue his quest without further hinderance. By maintaining this grip, he cleverly asserts his strength against the god, ultimately navigating through the challenges posed by Poseidon.