Translated from the Original Old Norse Text into English

Translated from the Original Old Norse Text into English

Hon. Rasmus B. Anderson, LL.D.

Editor-in-Chief.

J. W. BUEL, Ph.D.

MANAGING EDITOR.

PUBLISHED BY THE

NORROENA SOCIETY,

LONDON STOCKHOLM COPENHAGEN BERLIN NEW YORK

1906

Frontispiece—Gunnar (Gunther)

Siegfried Awakens Brynhild

Death of Atli

A Feast in Valhalla

Sæmund, son of Sigfus, known for collecting poems that bear his name, sometimes referred to as the Elder or the Poetic Edda, came from a highly respected family, directly descended from King Harald Hildetonn. He was born at Oddi, his family home in southern Iceland, between 1054 and 1057, about 50 years after the Christian religion was officially established there. This means it’s likely that many pagans or baptized supporters of the old mythic songs of paganism were around during his time, sharing with him the tales from the past, which his open-mindedness inspired him to pass down to future generations.

The youth of Sæmund was spent traveling and studying in Germany, France, and, as some say, Italy. His cousin John Ogmundson, who later became the first bishop of Holum and was recognized as a saint after his death, met his young relative on his way to Rome and brought him back to Iceland in 1076. Sæmund eventually became a priest at Oddi, where he taught many young men valuable knowledge; however, the outcomes of his teaching might have seemed like witchcraft or magic to the common people. Indeed, Sæmund’s fascination with the sagas and songs from old pagan times (including magical ones) was so well known that some of his fellow countrymen considered him a great sorcerer, mostly in terms of what is known as white or harmless and protective magic. This reputation still lingers in the memory of the Icelandic people and will continue to do so through the many popular stories about him (some quite entertaining) that are passed down orally from generation to generation.[1] Sæmund died at the age of 77, leaving behind a work on the history of Norway and Iceland, which is now almost completely lost.

The first person to attribute the collection of poems known as the Poetic Edda to Sæmund was Brynjolf Svensson, the bishop of Skalholt. This bishop, who was an enthusiastic collector of ancient manuscripts, discovered the old vellum codex in 1643, which is the most complete of all the known manuscripts of the Edda; he had a transcript made of it, which he titled Edda Saemundi Multiscii. The transcript eventually came into the hands of the royal historiographer Torfæus; the original, along with other manuscripts, was given to King Frederick III of Denmark and placed in the royal library in Copenhagen, where it still resides. As many of the Eddaic poems seem to have been passed down orally and in imperfect form, the collector filled in the gaps with prose insertions, thereby restoring the integrity of the content to some extent.

The collection known as Sæmund's Edda has two parts: the Mythological and the Heroic. It is the Mythological part that is now being presented to the public in an English version. In 1797, A.S. Cottle published a translation of this first part in Bristol. I've never come across that work, nor have I seen any English translation of any part of the Edda, except for Gray's lively but loose translation of the Vegtamskvida.

The Lay of Volund (Volundarkvida) tells the story of Volund's actions and struggles during his time in the domain of the Swedish king Nidud. Volund (Ger. Wieland, Fr. Veland and Galans) is the Nordic and Germanic equivalent of Vulcan (Hephaistos) and Dædalus. In England, his tale as a talented blacksmith dates back to very early times. In the Anglo-Saxon poem Beowulf, we see that the hero wishes, in case he falls in battle with Grendel, for his armor to be sent to Hygelac, saying it's made by Weland; and King Ælfred, in his translation of Boethius's Consolation, translates the words fidelis ossa Fabricii, etc. as Hwæt (hwær) Welondes? (Where are the bones of the famous and wise goldsmith Weland?), clearly interpreting the name Fabricius as a common term for a craftsman. The Exeter Book also contains a poem closely resembling the Eddaic lay. In his novel Kenilworth, Walter Scott has unfortunately distorted the old tradition, drawing from the Berkshire legend of Wayland Smith. We can find Weland's smithy mentioned as a land boundary in a charter from King Eadred in A.D. 955.

On the Lay of Helgi Hiorvard's Son, there's nothing to note beyond what’s in the poem itself.

The Lays of Helgi Hundingcide are the first in a series of stories about the Volsung family and the Giukungs, or Niflungs.

The connections between the various characters highlighted in these poems will be clear from the following tables:[Pg x.]

[Pg xi.]The Eddaic series of the Volsung and Niflung lays ends with the Lay of Hamdir; the one called Gunnar's Melody is definitely a later piece, but since it's written in the authentic ancient spirit of the North, it deserves a spot among the Eddaic poems. Also, the status of the Lay of Grotti in the collection by Sæmund isn't really clear; we only know of it through its presence in the Skalda. However, due to its age, its inherent value, and its inclusion in other versions of the Edda, both in the original and in translation, this work would seem incomplete without it, and rightfully so.

The Prose, or Younger Edda, is usually attributed to the famous Snorre Sturleson, who was born into a prominent Icelandic family in 1178. After living a tumultuous and ambitious life, and serving as the highest magistrate of the Republic twice, he was killed in 1241 by three of his sons-in-law and a stepson. When Snorre was three years old, John Loptson of Oddi, the grandson of Sæmund the Wise, became his foster parent. Snorre lived at Oddi until he turned twenty and is believed to have received an excellent education from his foster father, who was one of the most knowledgeable men of that time. It’s impossible to say how extensively he used the manuscripts of Sæmund and Ari, which were kept at Oddi, nor do we know exactly what those manuscripts contained; however, it's highly likely that the most important sections of the work now known as "The Prose Edda" were included in them, and that Snorre—who can be seen as the Scandinavian equivalent of Euhemerus—simply added a few chapters to make the mythology fit better with the misunderstanding he seemed to have about its meaning. Regardless, the Prose Edda, as it exists today, originates from the thirteenth century and consists of—1. Formali (Fore discourse); or the prologue. 2. Gylfa-ginning (The deluding of Gylfi). 3. Braga-roedur (Conversations of Bragi). 4. Eptirmali (After discourse); or Epilogue. The Prologue and Epilogue were probably written by Snorre himself and are merely an absurd mix of Hebrew, Greek, Roman, and Scandinavian myths and legends, where figures like Noah, Priam, Odin, Hector, Thor, Æneas, etc., are confusedly combined, much like in the romances of the Middle Ages. These writings, completely worthless on their own, clearly have nothing to do with the so-called "Prose Edda," the first part of which, containing fifty-three chapters, provides a complete overview of Scandinavian mythology, primarily derived from the Poetical Edda.

THE TRANSLATOR.

As an introduction to the Voluspa, the following description of a wandering Vala or prophetess may be seen as both intriguing and valuable: "They appear at the birth of children, seemingly representing the Norns. They gained their knowledge either through seid during the night while everyone else in the house slept, and shared their prophecies in the morning; or they received sudden insights while certain songs, suitable for the occasion, were sung, as the sorcery required this to work effectively. These seid-women were prevalent throughout the North. When summoned by a head of the household, they showed up in unique attire, often accompanied by a considerable number of followers, such as fifteen young men and fifteen young women. For their fortune-telling, they accepted payment in money, gold rings, and other valuable items. Sometimes, it was necessary to persuade them to prophecy. An old description of such a Vala, who traveled from guild to guild telling fortunes, will provide the best understanding of these women and their practices":—

Thorbiorg, known as the little Vala, attended the guilds in the winter at the request of those wanting to know their fate or the quality of the upcoming year. Everything was set up lavishly for her arrival. There was a high seat with a cushion filled with feathers. A man was sent to greet her. She arrived in the evening wearing a blue cloak fastened with ties and adorned with stones down to her lap; she had a necklace of glass beads around her neck, and a hood of black lambskin lined with white catskin on her head; in her hand, she held a staff with a brass head decorated with stones; around her waist was a girdle made of agaric (knoske), from which hung a bag containing her magical tools; on her feet were rugged calfskin shoes with long laces and tin buttons, and on her hands were catskin gloves, white and furry inside. Everyone welcomed her with a respectful greeting; the master himself took her by the hand to her seat. She did not make any predictions on the first day, choosing instead to spend the night there. On the evening of the next day, she took her elevated seat, had the women gather around her, and asked them to sing certain songs, which they performed with strong, clear voices. She then foretold what the coming year would bring, and afterward, anyone who approached her with questions received straightforward answers.

In this ancient and impressive poem, likely from the time of paganism, the words of a Vala, or wandering prophetess, recount the story of how the world was created from chaos, the beginnings of the giants, gods, dwarfs, and humans, along with other events tied to Northern mythology, concluding with the destruction of the gods and the world, followed by their renewal.

1. For silence, I pray all sacred children, great and small, sons of Heimdall,[5] that they will let me recount Valfather's deeds, the old sayings of men, those that I remember best.

2. I remember the Jötuns who raised me in my early days. I recall nine worlds and nine trees, including the great central tree beneath the earth.

3. In ancient times, where Ymir lived, there was neither sand nor sea, nor icy waves; there was no earth, no sky above, just a chaotic void, and no grass anywhere.

4. Before Bur's sons built the sky, they shaped the noble land. The sun shone from the south over the rocks of the structure: then the earth became covered with green grass.

5. The sun from the south, the moon's companion, her right hand reaching out to the heavenly horses. The sun didn't know where she[6] called home, the moon didn't know what power he had, and the stars didn't know where they belonged.

[Pg 2]6. Then the gods, filled with divine authority, gathered at their judgment seats and held a council. They named the night and the waning moon; they called the morning, noon, afternoon, and evening, creating a way to measure the years.

7. The Æsir gathered on Ida's plain; they built altars and tall temples; they tested their strength, tried everything, set up forges, created valuable items, made tongs, and crafted tools;

8. They played games at home; they were joyful; they didn’t lack for gold, until three powerful Thurs-maidens arrived from Jötunheim.

9. Then all the gods gathered at their thrones to hold a meeting about who among the dwarfs should be created from the blood and pale bones of the sea giant.

10. Then Môtsognir was created, the greatest of all the dwarfs, and Durin second; there in the likeness of man, they created many dwarfs from the earth, as Durin said.

11. Nýi and Nidi, Nordri and Sudri, Austri and Vestri, Althiôf, Dvalin Nâr and Nâin, Niping, Dain, Bivör, Bavör, Bömbur, Nori, An and Anar, Ai, Miodvitnir,

12. Veig and Gandâlf, Vindâlf, Thrain, Thekk and Thorin, Thrôr, Vitr, and Litr, Nûr and Nýrâd, Regin and Râdsvid. Now I have properly told you about the dwarfs.

13. Fili, Kili, Fundin, Nali, Hepti, Vili, Hanar, Svior, Billing, Bruni, Bild, Bûri, Frâr, Hornbori, Fræg and Lôni, Aurvang, Iari, Eikinskialdi.

14. It's a time for the dwarfs in Dvalin's group, for the sons of men, to account for those who emerged from the world's rock, the foundation of the earth, to Iora's plains.

[Pg 3]15. There were Draupnir, Dôlgthrasir, Hâr, Haugspori, Hlævang, Glôi, Skirvir, Virvir, Skafid, Ai, Alf, Yngvi, and Eikinskialdi,

16. Fialar and Frosti, Finn and Ginnar, Heri, Höggstari, Hliôdôlf, Moin: the descendants of Lofar shall be recognized as such while there are still mortals alive.

17. Then three powerful and kind gods from the Aesir came to the world from their meeting. They discovered Ask and Embla on earth, nearly helpless, without any fate.

18. They had no spirit, no sense, no blood or motivation, and no good color. Odin provided spirit, Hoenir provided sense, Lodur provided blood, and good color was also given.

19. I know of an ash tree called Yggdrasil, a tall tree soaked with clear water: from it come the dews that fall into the valleys; it always stands green over Urd's well.

20. Then, three wise maidens came from the hall that stands beneath that tree. The first is called Urd, the second is Verdandi—on a tablet they carved—Skuld is the third. They established laws, assigned life to the sons of men, and declared destinies.

21. Alone she[7] sat outside, when that ancient fearsome prince of the Æsir approached; and she looked into his eyes.

22. "What do you want to ask me? Why are you testing me? Odin! I know everything, where you looked into the clear well of Mim." Mim drinks mead every morning from Valfather's promise.[8] Do you understand now, or not?

[Pg 4]23. The leader of the army gave her rings and a necklace, insightful conversation, and a gift of foresight: she observed widely and deeply across every realm.

24. She, the Valkyrie, saw from a distance that they were coming, ready to ride to the god's people: Skuld held a shield, Skögul was second, followed by Gunn, Hild, Göndul, and Geirskögul. Now the maidens of Herian, the Valkyries, are named, prepared to ride across the earth.

25. She who remembers war, the first on earth, when they pierced her with lances, and in the high one's hall they burned her, burned her three times, brought her back three times, often not rarely; yet she still lives.

26. They called her Heidi, no matter where she went, the all-knowing Vala: she tamed wolves, knew magical arts, and practiced magic; she was always a delight to wicked people.

27. Then the powerful gods went to their judgment seats, the all-holy ones, and there they held a council to decide whether the Æsir should take revenge for the crime,[11] or whether all the gods should receive atonement.

28. The outer wall of the Æsir's fortress was broken. The Vanir, anticipating conflict, march over the plains. Odin threw his spear, and among the people, he hurled it: that was the first battle in the world.

29. Then the gods went to their judgment seats and held a council: who had mixed evil with the air? Or to which of the Jötun race had Od's maid given?

[Pg 5]30. There was Thor, filled with rage. He rarely stays seated when he hears things like this. Oaths aren’t respected; neither are words, swearing, nor the agreements made between each other.

31. She knows that Heimdall's horn is hidden beneath the bright holy tree in the sky. She sees a river flowing with a foamy waterfall, coming from Valfather's promise. Do you understand yet, or what?

32. To the east sat the old woman in Iârnvidir, and there grew up Fenrir's offspring: among them, one will stand out as the devourer of the moon, taking on the form of a troll.

33. He is filled with the last breath of dying men; the god's seat is stained with red blood: the sunshine turns dark for summers to come; all weather becomes stormy. Do you understand now, or not?

34. There on a hill sat the giantess's guard, the cheerful Egdir, playing a harp; nearby, in the bird-wood, the bright red rooster named Fialar crowed.

35. Crowed over the Æsir Gullinkambi, who wakes heroes with the lord of armies; but another crows underground, a soot-red rooster, in the halls of Hel.

36. I saw Baldr, the blood-stained god, son of Odin, and the hidden fate. There stood grown up, high on the plain, slender and strikingly beautiful, the mistletoe.

37. From that bush, it seemed to me, a deadly, toxic dart was made. Hödr shot it out; but Frigg mourned, in Fensalir, for Valhalla's disaster. Do you understand yet, or what?

38. She saw a monstrous shape lying under Hveralund, resembling Loki. There sits Sigyn, not very happy for her partner's sake. Do you understand now, or what?

39. Then the Vala realized the deadly bonds were tightening, incredibly stiff, made from guts.

40. From the east a river flows down through toxic valleys, with mud and clumps. Its name is Slîd.

41. In the north, there was a golden hall on Nida-fells for Sindri's family, and another one in Okôlnir, the giants' beer hall known as Brîmir.

42. She saw a hall standing, far from the sun, in Nâströnd; its doors face north, and poison drops fall through its openings: that hall is entwined with the backs of serpents.

43. She saw bloodthirsty men and liars wading through the slow streams, along with the one who seduces another man's wife. There, Nidhögg sucks the corpses of the dead; the wolf tears apart men. Do you understand now, or what?

44. As I look ahead, there's so much I can say about Ragnarök and the battle of the gods.

45. Brothers will fight and kill each other; cousins will betray their kin. The earth shakes, the giantesses run away; no man will spare another.

46. It’s tough in the world, a lot of betrayal, an age of violence, an age of conflict, shields will be broken, an age of chaos, a wolf age, before the world ends.

47. Mim's sons dance, but the central tree catches fire at the loud sound of the Giallar-horn. Heimdall blows his horn loudly, and Odin speaks with Mim's head.

48. Yggdrasil's ash tree trembles but still stands; the old tree groans, and the giant is unleashed. Garm barks loudly before the Gnupa cave, tearing apart his bonds, and the wolf runs free.

49. Hrym is coming from the east, the waters are rising, and the mundane snake is coiled in giant rage. The serpent thrashes the water, and the eagle shrieks: its pale beak tears into carcasses; Naglfar is set free.

50. That ship is coming from the east: Muspell's people will arrive over the sea, and Loki is steering. The monster's kin is all with the wolf; with them is the brother of Byleist on their journey.

51. Surt from the south arrives with a flickering flame; the Val-gods' sun shines from his sword. The rocky hills crash together, the giantesses sway; people walk the path of Hel, and the sky is split apart.

52. How are things with the Æsir? How about the Alfar? The whole of Jötunheim echoes; the Æsir are in a meeting. The dwarfs are groaning in front of their stone doors, the wise ones of the rocky walls. Do you understand yet, or what?

53. Then Hlîn experiences her second sorrow when Odin goes to battle with the wolf, and the bright slayer of Beli faces Surt. Then Frigg's beloved will fall.

54. Then the great victorious king’s son, Vidar, comes to battle the deadly beast. With his hands, he will drive his sword deep into the heart of the giant’s son; thus, he avenges his father.

55. Then comes the powerful son of Hlôdyn: (Odin's son sets out with the monster to fight); Midgard's Veor, in his fury, will kill the serpent. Fiörgyn's son will stride nine feet, bent down by the serpent, who feared no enemy. Everyone will abandon their homes.[Pg 8]

56. The sun dims, the earth sinks into the ocean, bright stars tumble from the sky, flames attack the life-giving tree, and towering fire reaches toward the heavens.

57. She sees emerge, once again, land from the sea, beautifully green, with waterfalls cascading down; the eagle flying above, which catches fish in the cliffs.

58. The Æsir gather on Ida's plain to discuss the great earth-encircler, recalling their powerful actions and the ancient knowledge of the supreme god.

59. There will again be the amazing golden tables in the grass, which once belonged to the ruler of the gods and Fiölnir's descendants.

60. The fields will produce without being planted, and all wrongs will be set right; Baldr will return; Hödr and Baldr, the divine beings, will reside in Hropt's magnificent halls. Do you understand this yet, or what?

61. Then Hoenir can choose his fate, and the sons of the two brothers live in the vast Vindheim. Do you understand yet, or what?

62. She has a hall that stands brighter than the sun, adorned with gold, in Gimill: there the righteous will dwell, and they will enjoy happiness forever.

64. Then the great one arrives for the important judgment, the powerful one from above, who rules over everything. He will declare judgments and settle disputes, establishing holy peace that will last forever.

65. The dark dragon emerges, soaring from below the shining serpent, from Nida-fels. On his wings carries Nidhögg, flying over the plain, a dead body. Now she will come down.

Odin visits the Giant (Jötun) Vafthrûdnir to prove his knowledge. They ask each other questions about the creation of the universe in Northern mythology, with the condition that whoever loses must forfeit his head. The Jötun ends up facing the penalty.

Odin.

1. Please advise me now, Frigg! I really want to go to Vafthrûdnir's place; I have a strong desire to engage in ancient wisdom with that all-knowing giant.

Frigg.

2. At home to wait for Hærfather, I would advise, in the homes of the gods; because I don’t think any Jötun is as powerful as Vafthrûdnir.

Odin.

3. I have traveled a lot, experienced many things, and faced many powerful beings; but I really want to know what it's like in Vafthrûdnir's halls.

Frigg.

4. May you go in safety, may you return in safety; may you be safe on your travels; may your intelligence serve you well when you, father of mankind, talk with the Jötun.

5. Then Odin went to learn from that all-wise [Pg 10]Jötun. He arrived at the hall owned by Im's father. Ygg immediately entered.

Odin.

6. Hail to you, Vafthrûdnir! I have come to your hall to see you; I really want to know if you are a clever and all-wise giant.

Vafthrûdnir.

7. Who is this guy that talks to me in my home? You’re not leaving our place unless you’re smarter.

Odin.

8. My name is Gagnrâd. I've traveled a long way and I'm thirsty as I arrive at your halls, needing your hospitality. I'm here seeking a warm welcome from you, Jötun!

Vafthrudnir.

9. Why then, Gagnrâd! are you speaking from the ground? Take a seat in the hall; then we’ll see who knows more, the guest or the old storyteller.

Gagnrâd.

10. A poor man should either speak meaningfully to a rich man or stay quiet: too much chatter, I believe, does him no favors when he visits a strict person.

Vafthrûdnir.

11. Tell me, Gagnrâd! Since you will prove your skill on the ground, what is the name of the horse that pulls each day across humanity?

Gagnrâd.

12. His name is Skinfaxi, the one who brings the bright day to humanity. Among the Reid-goths, he is considered the best of horses. His mane always shines with light.

Vafthrûdnir.

13. Tell me now, Gagnrâd! Since you will show your skills on the floor, what is the name of the steed that brings night from the east over the kind powers?

Gagnrâd.

14. He is called Hrimfaxi, and every night he brings forth the beneficial powers. From his bit, he drops water every morning, which is where the dew in the valleys comes from.

Vafthruthnir.

15. Tell me, Gagnrâd! Since you'll demonstrate your skills on the floor, what is the name of the river that separates the Jötuns from the Gods?

Gagnrâd.

16. The stream that divides the giants and the gods is called Ifing: it shall flow forever. There will be no ice on that stream.

Vafthrûdnir.

17. Tell me, Gagnrâd! Since you will show your skill on the ground, what is the name of the plain where Surt and the gentle Gods will meet in battle?

Gagnrâd.

18. The plain called Vigrid is where the battle will take place between Surt and the friendly gods; it stretches a hundred rasts in every direction. That plain is destined for them.

Vafthrûdnir.

19. You’re wise, oh guest! Come over to the Jötun's bench, and let’s sit and talk together; we'll raise our heads in the hall and toast to wise words, guest!

Gagnrâd.

20. Tell me first, if you are clever enough, and you, Vafthrûdnir! Do you know where the earth and the high heaven came from, you wise giant?

Vafthrûdnir.

21. The earth was made from Ymir's flesh, the hills from his bones, the sky from the skull of that ice-cold giant, and the sea from his blood.

Gagnrâd.

22. Tell me next, if your wit is sharp enough, and you, Vafthrûdnir! know where the moon, which shines over humanity, and the sun as well, came from?

Vafthrûdnir.

23. His name is Mundilfoeri, who is the father of both the moon and the sun; they both travel around the heavens each day to keep track of the years for people.

Goggles.

24. Tell me thirdly, since you're called wise, and if you, Vafthrûdnir! know, where did the day come from that covers people, and night with fading moons?

Vafthrûdnir.

25. Delling is the name of the one who is the father of the day, while night was born of Nörvi; the new and waning moons were created by the benevolent powers to mark the years for humans.

Gains.

26. Tell me, fourthly, since they call you wise, and if you, Vafthrûdnir, know where winter originated and when warm summer first appeared among the wise gods?

Vafthrûdnir.

27. His name is Vindsval, the father of winter, and Svâsud, the father of summer; they will both travel every year, until the powers fade away.

Gagnrâd.

28. Tell me fifthly, since they call you wise, and if you, Vafthrûdnir, know which of the Æsir or Ymir's sons existed first in the old days?

Vafthruthnir.

29. Countless winters before the earth was created, Bergelmir was born; his father was Thrûdgelmir, and his grandfather was Aurgelmir.

Gagnrâd.

30. Tell me, sixthly, since you’re called wise, and if you, Vafthrûdnir, know where Aurgelmir first came from, among the sons of the Jötuns, you clever Jötun?

Vafthrûdnir.

31. From Elivâgar came drops of venom that formed [Pg 14]into a Jötun; but sparks flew from the southern world: the fire brought life to the ice.

Gagnrâd.

33. Tell me, seventhly, since you are called wise, and if you know, Vafthrûdnir! how did the brave Jötun father children without the company of a giantess?

Vafthruthnir

33. It is said that under the armpit of the Hrîmthurs, a girl and a boy grew together; from foot to foot, that clever Jötun fathered a six-headed son.

Gagnrâd

34. Tell me eighth, since you’re called wise, and if you know, Vafthrûdnir! What do you remember first, or what do you know earliest? You are an all-knowing giant.

Vafthruthnir

35. Countless winters before the earth was formed, Bergelmir was born. The first thing I remember is when that wise giant was placed in an ark.

Gagnrâd.

36. Tell me ninth, since you are called wise, and if you know, Vafthrûdnir! Where does the wind come from that crosses the ocean, invisible to man?

Vafthrungnir

37. He is called Hraesvelg, who sits at the edge of the sky, a giant in the feathers of an eagle: it is said that the wind that blows over all people comes from his wings.

Gagnrâd

38. Tell me tenthly, since you know all about the origins of the gods, Vafthrûdnir! Where did Niörd come from among the sons of the Æsir? He governs countless temples and altars, yet was not born among the Æsir.

Vafthrðunir

39. In Vanaheim, the wise ones created him and gave him as a hostage to the gods. When the world ends, he will return to the wise Vanir.

Gagnrâd.

40. Tell me eleventhly, since you know all the conditions of the gods, Vafthrûdnir! What do the Einherjar do in Haerfather's halls until the powers fade away?

Vafthrûdnir.

41. Every day, all the Einherjar in Odin's halls fight together; they choose the fallen and ride away from the battle; they drink beer with the Æsir, eat their fill of Saehrimnir, and then sit together in harmony.

Gagnrâd.

42. Tell me, twelfthly, since you know all the conditions of the gods, Vafthrûdnir! Tell me the secrets of the Jötuns and of all the gods. What is the truest, all-knowing Jötun?

Vafthruthnir.

43. I can honestly share the secrets of the Jötuns and all the gods; I've traveled through every world. I reached nine worlds, even to Niflhel below: this is where people die from Hel.

Gagnrâd.

44. I have traveled a lot, experienced a lot, and tested many powerful people. What humans will survive once the great "Fimbul"-winter has passed?

Vafthruthnir

45. Lif and Lifthrasir; but they will be hidden in Hoddmimir's grove. They will feed on the morning dews. From them, humanity will be born.

Gagnrâd.

46. I have traveled a lot, experienced many things, and faced many powerful beings. Where will the sun rise in that beautiful sky when Fenrir has swallowed it?

Vafthrúdnir

47. A daughter will be born to Alfrödull before Fenrir has swallowed her. The girl will ride, when the powers fall, on her mother's path.

Gagnrâd.

48. I have traveled a lot, etc. Who are the young women that travel across the ocean, wise in spirit, and adventurous?

Vafthruthnir

49. Over the homes of people, three maidens from Mögthrasir come down, the only Hamingiur in the world, even though they were raised by Jötuns.

Gagnrâd.

50. I have traveled a lot, etc. Which of the Æsir will govern the gods' realm when Surt's fire is extinguished?

Vafthrundnir

51. Vidar and Vali will live in the gods' sacred temples when Surt's fire is put out. Môdi and Magni will have Mjölnir and will work to bring an end to warfare.

Gagnrâd.

52. I have traveled a lot, etc. What will happen to Odin at the end of life, when the powers fade away?

Vafthruthnir

53. The wolf will devour the father of men; Vidar will take revenge on him: he will split his cold jaws in battle with the wolf.

Gagnrâd.

54. I have traveled a lot, etc. What did Odin whisper in his son's ear before he was laid on the pyre?

Vafthruthnir

55. No one knows what you said in your son’s ear long ago. With my dying words, I’ve shared my old wisdom and the downfall of the gods. I have debated with Odin in wise statements: among men, you are always the wisest!

The topic is entirely mythical.

King Hraudung had two sons, Agnar and Geirröd. Agnar was ten, and Geirröd was eight. They both went out in a boat with their hooks and lines to catch small fish, but the wind blew them out to sea. In the darkness of night, they crashed on the shore and went inland, where they found a cottager who took them in for the winter. The cottager's wife looked after Agnar, while the cottager took care of Geirröd and gave him valuable advice. In spring, the man got them a ship, but when he and his wife took them to the shore, the man had a private talk with Geirröd. They had a good wind and reached their father's home. Geirröd stood at the prow of the ship; he jumped ashore but pushed the ship away, saying, "Go where a bad spirit can take you." The vessel was carried out to sea, but Geirröd went into town, where he was warmly welcomed; however, his father had died. Geirröd was then declared king and became well-known.

Odin and Frigg were sitting in Hlidskiâlf, looking over all the world. Odin said, "Do you see Agnar, your foster son, where he is, having children with a giantess in a cave? Meanwhile, Geirröd, my foster son, is a king in his own land." Frigg replied, "He is so unwelcoming that he tortures his guests if he thinks too many have come." Odin responded that this was the greatest falsehood, and they made a bet on it. Frigg sent her waiting maid, Fulla, to warn Geirröd to be cautious, as the trollman coming could harm him, and to tell him that a sign to recognize him was that no dog, no matter how fierce, would attack him. But the claim that King Geirröd was not hospitable was just idle gossip. Nevertheless, he had the man secured whom no dog would assault. He was wearing a blue cloak and was named Grimnir, and he wouldn't say anything more about himself, even when asked. The king ordered him to be tortured to make him confess and placed him between two fires; he sat there for eight nights. King Geirröd had a ten-year-old son named Agnar, after his brother. Agnar went to Grimnir and offered him a full horn to drink from, saying that the king was wrong to have him tortured when he was innocent. Grimnir drank from it. The fire had then come so close that it burned his cloak; then he said:—

1. Fire! you're too hot and way too intense; flame! let’s part ways. My clothes are burned, even though I hold them up; my cloak is scorched in front of it.

2. I’ve spent eight nights sitting between fires here, and no one has offered me any food except Agnar, the son of Geirröd, who will be the only one to rule over the land of the Goths.

3. Be blessed, Agnar! as blessed as the god of men wants you to be. You'll never receive a better reward for one drink.[Pg 20]

4. The land is sacred, which I see close to the Æsir and Alfar; but in Thrûdheim, Thor will stay until the powers fade away.

5. It is called Ydalir, where Ullr has built himself a home. Alfheim was given to Frey by the gods long ago as a gift for losing a tooth.

6. The third dwelling is where the kind powers have decorated the hall with silver; it's called Valaskiâlf, which they acquired for themselves long ago.

7. Sökkvabekk the fourth is named, where the cold waves echo; Odin and Saga there, happy every day, drink from golden cups.

8. Gladsheim is called the fifth, where the brightly shining Valhall stands wide open, and there Hropt chooses each day those who die by weapons.

9. It's easy to recognize the place when you arrive at Odin's hall, just by looking at it. The roof is covered with spears, the hall is decorated with shields, and the benches are strewn with armor.

10. Those who visit Odin will easily recognize the mansion by its appearance. A wolf hangs in front of the western door, while an eagle hovers above it.

11. Thrymheim, the sixth one, is named, where the all-powerful giant Thiassi lived; but now Skadi, the radiant goddess and bride of the gods, resides in her father's old home.

12. Breidablik is the seventh, where Baldr has built a hall for himself, in a land where I know the fewest crimes exist.

13. Himinbiörg is the eighth, where Heimdall, it is [Pg 21]said, governs the sacred temples: there the gods' protector, in his peaceful home, happily sips the good mead.

14. Fôlkvang is the ninth, where Freyia leads the gatherings in the hall. She chooses half of the fallen each day, while Odin takes the other half.

15. Glitnir is the tenth; it is supported by gold and also adorned with silver. This is where Forseti resides forever, calming every conflict.

16. Nôatûn is the eleventh, where Niörd has his own home, prince of men; blameless of sin, he oversees the grand temple.

17. Overgrown with branches and tall grass is Vidar's spacious Landvîdi: There the son will come down from the horse, ready to avenge his father.

18. Andhrimnir prepares Sæhrimnir to boil in Eldhrimnir, using the finest meats; but few know how many Einherjar it feeds.

19. Geri and Freki, the battle-ready wolves, the victorious father of warriors; but only Odin, the legendary warrior, lives forever through wine.

20. Hugin and Munin fly every day over the vast earth. I worry about Hugin not returning, but I'm even more anxious about Munin.

21. Thunder rumbles; happy in Thiodvitnir's water lives the fish; the fast river seems too wide for the battle horse to cross.

22. Valgrind is the lattice that stands in the plain, sacred before the holy gates: it’s an ancient lattice, but only a few know how it’s locked.

23. Five hundred doors, and forty more, I believe, are [Pg 22]in Valhalla. Eight hundred warriors will immediately come out from each door when they charge out with the wolf to fight.

24. I believe Bilskirnir has five hundred and forty floors, with its twists and turns. Among all the houses I know of that have roofs, my son's is the biggest.

25. Heidrûn the goat is what she's called, standing over Odin's hall, and nibbling on the branches of Lærâd. She will fill a bowl with the bright mead; that drink will never run out.

26. Eikthyrnir the stag is known, standing over Odin's hall, and munching on the branches of Lærâd; from his antlers, drops fall into Hvergelmir, from which all waters flow:—

27. Sid and Vid, Soekin and Eikin, Svöl and Gunnthrô, Fiörm and Fimbulthul, Rin and Rennandi, Gipul and Göpul, Gömul and Geirvimul: they circle the gods' home with the wind. Thyn and Vin, Thöll and Höll, Grâd and Gunnthorin.

28. The first is called Vina, the second Vegsvin, and the third Thiodnuma; Nyt and Nön and Hrön, Slid and Hrid, Sylg and Ylg, Vîd and Vân, Vönd and Strönd, Gioll and Leipt; these (two) come close to humans, but fall away to Hel.

29. Körmt and Ormt, and the two Kerlaugs: these are the streams Thor has to cross every day when he goes to the council at Yggdrasil's ash; for the As-bridge is on fire, and the holy waters are boiling.

30. Glad and Gyllir, Gler and Skeidbrimir, Sillfrintopp and Sinir, Gisl and Falhôfnir, Gulltopp and Lettfeti; these are the steeds the Æsir ride every day when they go to council at Yggdrasil's ash.[Pg 23]

31. Three roots stand on three paths beneath Yggdrasil's ash tree: Hel is beneath one, the Hrimthursar is beneath the second, and humanity is underneath the third.

32. Ratatösk is the squirrel who has to run up and down Yggdrasil's ash tree; he carries messages from the eagle above and has to repeat them to Nidhögg below.

33. There are also four Harts, which from their peaks, with arched necks, gnaw. Dâin and Dvalin, Duneyr and Durathrôr.

34. More snakes lie beneath Yggdrasil's ash tree than any of us foolish mortals would imagine: Gôin and Môin—who are the sons of Grafvitnir—Grâbak and Grafvöllud, Ofnir and Svafnir will, I believe, always tear at the branches of that tree.

35. Yggdrasil's ash tree endures more hardship than people realize; a stag gnaws at its top, and it decays from the inside, while Nidhögg beneath tears at its roots.

36. Hrist and Mist will carry the horn for me: Skeggöld and Skögul, Hlökk and Herfiotur, Hildi and Thrûdi, Göll and Geirölul, Randgríd and Râdgrîd, and Reginleif, these will serve beer to the Einherjar.

37. Arvakr and Alsvid, theirs is the task to pull the sun upward with fasting: beneath their shoulders, the gentle powers, the Æsir, have hidden a coolness of iron.

38. Svalin the shield is called, which stands in front of the sun, the shining god; I believe rocks and ocean must be burned to knock it from its place.

39. The wolf named Sköll chases the beautiful goddess into the ocean; another one is called Hati, the son of Hrôdvitnir; he will lead the bright maiden of heaven.[Pg 24]

40. From Ymir's flesh, the earth was made; from his blood, the sea; from his bones, the hills; from his hair, the trees and plants; and from his skull, the sky;

41. And from his brows, the gentle forces shaped Midgard for humanity; but from his brain, the dense clouds are all created.

42. Whoever looks at the fire first will have Ullr's and all the gods' blessing; for the home will be open to the sons of the Æsir when the kettles are lifted off.[12]

43. Ivaldi's sons once created Skidbladnir, the best of all ships, for the radiant Frey, the kind son of Niörd.

44. Yggdrasil's ash tree is the best of all trees, and of all ships, Skidbladnir, belonging to the Æsir, Odin, and of horses, Sleipnir, Bifröst of bridges, and of poets, Bragi, Hâbrôk of hawks, and of dogs, Garm, [Brimir of swords.]

45. Now I have turned my face to the victorious sons of the gods, hoping for help to come; from all the Æsir, who will gather at Oegir's table, to Oegir's feast.[13]

46. I’m known as Grim, Gangleri, Herian, and Hiâlmberi, Thekk and Thridi, Thund and Ud, Helblindi and Har,

47. Sad, Svipall, Sanngetall, Herteit, and Hnikar Bileyg, Bâleyg, Bölverk, Fiölnir, Grîm, Grimnir, Glapsvid, and Fiölsvid, [Pg 25]

48. Sîdhött, Sîdskegg Sigfödr, Hnikud, Alfodr, Valfödr, Atrid, and Farmatyr; I have never been known by just one name, as I have traveled among people.

49. I'm called Grimnir at Geirröd's, and at Asmund's Jâlk and Kialar, when I pulled a sled; Thrôr at public gatherings, Vidur in battles, Oski and Omi, Jafnhâr and Biflindi, Gôndlir and Harbard with the gods.

50. Svidur and Svidrir were at Sökkmimir's, and I charmed that ancient giant when I was the only one to defeat Midvitnir's famous son.

51. You're drunk, Geirröd, you've had too much to drink, and you're really fooled by the mead. You lost a lot when you were cut off from my help, and from all the favor of the Einherjar and Odin.

52. I've told you many things, but you remember few: your friends are leading you astray. I see my friend's sword lying here, covered in blood.

53. Ygg will now take those who have fallen by the sword; your life has come to an end: The Dîsir are angry with you: you will now see Odin: come closer to me if you can.

54. I am now called Odin, I was known as Ygg before, and even earlier, I was called Thund, Vakr, and Skilfing, Vâfudr and Hrôptatyr, along with the gods, Gaut and Jâlk, Ofnir and Svafnir, all of which I believe are names that refer to me alone.

King Geirröd was sitting with his sword resting across his knees, half pulled out of its sheath. When he realized it was Odin, he stood up to rescue him from the flames, but the sword slipped from his grip, point downward. The king tripped, and the sword stabbed him, killing him. Odin then disappeared, and Agnar ruled as king for many years afterward.

1. The Æsir were all gathered in council, and the Asyniur were all in discussion, as they contemplated, the powerful gods, why Baldr had been having troubling dreams.

2. [To that god, his sleep was very troubling; his hopeful dreams seemed gone. They questioned the Jötuns, wise seers of the future, whether this could mean disaster.]

3. The answers indicated that death was meant for Ullr's family member, the one most beloved: this brought sorrow to Frigg and Svafnir, and to the other gods—They decided on a plan:

4. They agreed to send a guarantee to every being, asking them to ensure Baldr would not be harmed. All beings took oaths to protect him; Frigg collected all their promises and agreements.

5. Valfather fears something is wrong; he thinks the Hamingiur may have left; he gathers the Æsir and seeks their advice: during the discussion, many plans are made.

6. Odin, the god of men, got up and placed his saddle on Sleipnir; he then rode down to Niflhel. Along the way, he encountered a dog coming from Hel.

7. It was blood-stained on its chest, on its bloodthirsty throat, and lower jaw. It howled and opened its mouth wide at the master of magical song:—it howled for a long time.

8. Odin rode forth—the ground shook—until he arrived at Hel's grand house. Then Ygg rode to the eastern gate, where he knew there was a Vala's grave.

9. To the prophetess, he started to chant a magical song, looking toward the north, using powerful runes, casting a spell, demanding an answer, until she was compelled to rise, and in a voice like death, she said:

Vala

10. "Who is this man, unknown to me, who has made my life more difficult? I have been covered in snow, beaten by rain, and dampened by dew: I have felt dead for a long time."

Vegtam.

11. "My name is Vegtam, and I’m the son of Valtam. Please tell me about Hel: I call on you from the earth. For whom are those benches covered with rings, those expensive couches layered with gold?"

Vala

12. "Here is mead, brewed for Baldr, with a shield placed over the bright drink; but the Æsir are filled with despair. I have spoken against my will. I will now remain silent."

[Pg 28]Vegtam.

13. "Don't stay silent, Vala! I'm going to ask you questions until I find out everything. I will find out who will be Baldr's killer, and who will take away Odin's son of life."

Vala.

14. "Hödr will send here his glorious brother; he will be the one to kill Baldr and take the life of Odin's son. I have spoken against my will; now I will be quiet."

Vegtam.

15. "Don't be silent, Vala! I'm going to ask you until I find out everything. I still want to know who will take revenge on Hödr or who will raise Baldr's killer on the pyre."

Vala

16. "A son will be born in the western halls: he will kill Odin's son when he is just one night old. He won’t wash his hands or comb his hair before he has carried Baldr's enemy to the pyre. I have spoken against my will; now I will be silent."

Vegtam

17. "Don't stay quiet, Vala! I'm going to ask you questions until I find out everything. I need to know who the maidens are that cry freely and lift their neck-veils to the sky. Just tell me that: until then, you won't sleep."

Vala.

18. "You're not Vegtam, like I thought before; instead, you're Odin, the lord of men!"

Odin.

19. "You are not a Vala or a wise woman; you are rather the mother of three trolls."

Vala.

20. "Go home, Odin! and celebrate. No man will ever visit me again until Loki breaks free from his chains and Ragnarök, the destruction of all, arrives."

1. All doorways should be checked before proceeding, because it’s hard to tell where enemies might be hiding inside a home.

2. Givers, welcome! A guest has arrived: where should he sit? He's in a hurry, as he has to test his luck on the road.

3. Fire is essential for someone who has arrived and whose knees are cold; food and clothing are necessary for a man, no matter how far he has traveled.

4. Water is essential for someone who comes for refreshment, along with a towel and a warm welcome, and good hospitality; if possible, conversation and answers.

5. Wit is essential for those who travel far: everything is straightforward at home. Someone who knows nothing and tries to keep up with the knowledgeable will become a target for ridicule.[Pg 30]

6. No one should take pride in their understanding; instead, they should be careful in their actions. When the wise and quiet arrive at a home, the cautious rarely face harm; for there is no better friend than great wisdom.

7. A cautious guest,[15] who comes to reflect, maintains a careful silence, listens with his ears, and watches with his eyes: this is how every wise person explores.

8. He is happy who earns fame and kind words for himself; it's less certain to rely on what someone else thinks of you.

9. He is happy who has fame and wit within himself while living; because bad advice often comes from someone else's heart.

10. No one carries a heavier burden than having a lot of common sense; it's considered better than wealth in an unfamiliar place; that's how those in need manage.

11. There’s nothing worse on his journey than drinking too much beer; it’s really not as beneficial as people say it is for mankind.

12. No one can take a worse thing from the table than drinking too much beer: the more he drinks, the less he can control his own mind.

13. It's called Oblivion's heron, the one that hovers over drinks; it steals people's thoughts. With the wings of this bird, I was trapped in Gunnlod's home.[Pg 31]

14. I was drunk, really drunk, at that sly Fialar's. It's the best kind of drunkenness, when everyone afterwards gets their senses back.

15. A king's children should be quiet and careful, yet bold in battle; everyone should be cheerful and generous until their time comes to die.

16. A cowardly man believes he will always survive if he stays away from battle; but old age will not bring him peace, even if weapons spare him.

17. A fool stares in disbelief when he arrives at a house, muttering to himself or staying quiet; but suddenly, if he gets a drink, his true thoughts come out.

18. He alone knows who strays far and has had many experiences, by what qualities each person is guided, who has common sense.

19. Let a man hold the cup, but drink the mead in moderation, speak wisely or stay quiet. No one will criticize you for a mistake if you go to sleep early.

20. A greedy person, if they don't show restraint, eats to their own regret. Often, their appetite becomes a source of ridicule for a foolish person, who finds themselves among the wise.

21. Cattle know when it's time to head home and stop grazing, but a foolish person never knows how much they can eat.

22. A miserable man, and poorly adjusted, mocks everything: there's one thing he doesn’t realize that he should, which is that he is not without flaws.

23. A foolish person stays awake all night, worrying about everything; then they get tired, and when morning comes, everything is still sad like before.[Pg 32]

24. A foolish person believes that everyone who smiles at them is a friend; they don’t realize that even when these people talk badly about them, it doesn’t register when they are surrounded by smarter people.

25. A foolish person believes that everyone who speaks nicely to him is his friend; but he will discover, when he arrives in court, that he has few supporters.

26. A foolish person believes they know everything when faced with an unexpected challenge; however, they are at a loss for words when put to the test.

27. A foolish person, who interacts with others, should probably stay quiet; because no one realizes that they know nothing unless they talk too much. Someone who didn’t know anything before will still know nothing, no matter how much they talk.

28. He considers himself smart if he can ask questions and hold a conversation; no one can hide their ignorance because it spreads among people.

29. He who never stays quiet speaks too many pointless words; a chatty tongue, if not kept in check, often causes its own trouble.

30. No one should be made a spectacle of, even if a stranger comes to their home. Many believe they are wise if they go unchallenged and can remain composed in a dry demeanor.

31. Clever believes he's the guest who mocks another guest if he runs away. He doesn't really know for sure, he who talks during the meal, whether he’s just chattering among enemies.

32. Many men get along well, yet will annoy each other at the table. There will always be some conflict; guests will irritate each other.

33. A man should often have early meals, unless he's going to a [Pg 33]friend's house; otherwise, he will sit around feeling down, appear half-starved, and struggle to ask about anything.

34. The path to a bad friend's house is long and winding, even if they live nearby; but the way to a good friend's is straightforward, even if they are far away.

35. A guest should leave; they shouldn’t linger in one place. Their welcome turns into an annoyance if they stay too long in someone else's home.

36. A person's own home is the best, no matter how small it is; at home, everyone is their own boss. Even if they only have two goats and a cottage with a straw roof, that's still better than begging.

37. Your own home is the best, no matter how small it is; at home, everyone is their own master. It's heartbreaking for someone who has to ask for food at every meal.

38. Leaving his weapons in the field, no one should go even a step forward; because it's difficult to predict when someone might need their weapon on the journey.

39. I have never met a man who was so generous or so welcoming that he turned down a gift, or so open-hearted with his possessions that he dismissed a reward.

40. No one should go without what they have earned; often, what is disliked is saved for what is beloved. Many things turn out worse than expected.

41. Friends should make each other happy with gifts and clothes that are the most visually appealing. Those who give and receive are friends for the longest time, as long as everything else goes well.[16]

[Pg 34]42. A man should be a friend to his friend, and should return gifts with gifts. People should respond to laughter with laughter, but to lies with lies.

43. A man should be a friend to his friend, both to him and to his friend; but no man should be a friend to the friend of his enemy.

44. Know, if you have a friend whom you fully trust, and from whom you want to gain good things, you should connect your mind with theirs, exchange gifts, and visit them often.

45. If you have someone else, whom you don't trust much, but still want to get something good from, you should speak nicely to him, but think cleverly, and repay deceit with deception.

46. But about him whom you trust little and suspect of not caring for you; before him you should laugh and speak contrary to what you think: the gift should reflect the reward.

47. I was young once, traveling on my own, and I got lost; I thought I was doing well until I met another person. People bring happiness to each other.

48. Free-spirited and courageous people live well; they rarely hold onto sadness. In contrast, a small-minded person fears everything; the greedy are uncomfortable even when receiving gifts.

49. I gave my clothes in a field to two wooden figures: they looked like heroes when they wore cloaks. A naked man is vulnerable to ridicule.

50. A tree withers that stands on a hilltop; neither bark nor leaves protect it: that’s like the man whom no one supports: why should he live long?

51. A passionate love burns hotter than fire for five days between [Pg 35]false friends; but it cools off when the sixth day arrives, leaving friendship damaged.

52. Great things are not always meant to be given; praise is often for something trivial that was bought. With half a loaf and a tilted cup, I found myself a friend.

53. The grains of sand are small, some people's wits are limited, and not all minds are created equal; not every man is wise in the same way: people are often only half of what they could be.

54. Everyone should be reasonably wise, but never excessively wise: the lives of those who know a lot are the most fulfilling.

55. Each person should be somewhat wise, but never too wise; because a truly wise person's heart is rarely joyful if that person believes they know everything.

56. Everyone should be reasonably wise, but never too wise. No one should know their destiny in advance; it allows the mind to be free of worry.

57. A brand ignites another brand until it's completely burned out; fire comes from fire that's fueled. A person is recognized by their words, but a fool is revealed by their shy silence.

58. He should get up early if he wants to have someone else's property or wife. A lazy wolf rarely catches prey, and a sleeping man hardly ever achieves victory.

59. Early should rise he who has few workers, and go to check on his work; he who sleeps the morning away is greatly delayed. Wealth partly depends on effort.

60. A man knows the measurements of dry wood and roof shingles; he knows how much firewood will be enough, both in quantity and timing.

61. After getting clean and ready, a man should ride to the [Pg 36]Thing,[17] even if his clothes aren't the best; no one should be embarrassed about his shoes and pants, or his horse, even if it's not a great one.

62. Every sensible person who wants to be considered wise should ask questions and share knowledge. If one person knows something, a second might not; but if three people know, then everyone knows.

63. Gasps and stares when he arrives at the sea, the eagle over the vast ocean; so is a man who stands out among many and has only a few supporters.

64. Every wise person should use their power carefully; because they will discover, when they're around the daring, that no one is truly the strongest on their own.

65. Every man should be careful and reserved, and cautious when trusting friends. Often, he pays the price for the things he says to others.

66. I arrived at many places way too early, but at others, I was too late: the beer was already finished or not ready yet; what people don’t like rarely comes at the right time.

67. Here and there I would have been invited if I had needed a meal; or two hams would have hung at that true friend's place, where I had eaten one.

68. Fire is the greatest gift among humans, and seeing the sun is best, if a person can enjoy good health and live a life without vice.

69. No one has nothing, even if they have poor health: one finds happiness in their children, one in their relatives, one in their wealth, and one in their good deeds.

70. It's better to be alive, even if it's a miserable life; a living person can always get a cow. I saw flames destroy the wealthy man's possessions, and death was waiting at his door.[Pg 37]

71. The one who can stop can ride a horse, the one-handed can drive cattle; the deaf can fight and be useful: being blind is better than being burned[18] no one benefits from a corpse.

72. A son is preferable, even if he's born after his father's passing. Gravestones rarely appear by the roadside unless put there by a family member for another family member.

73. Two are rivals: the tongue is the enemy of the mind: beneath every disguise, I anticipate a hidden motive. * * *

74. At night, he who is confident about traveling for fun is joyful. [A ship's yards are short.][19] Variable is an autumn night. There are many changes in the weather over five days, but even more in a month.

75. He only doesn’t realize that many people imitate each other, regardless of their knowledge. One person is wealthy, while another is not; he shouldn't be seen as at fault for that.

76. Cattle die, family die, we ourselves also die; but the good reputation of someone who has earned it never dies.

77. Cattle die, relatives die, we ourselves also die; but I know one thing that never dies—judgment of each person who has died.

78. I saw full storehouses at the sons of Dives: now they carry the beggar's staff. Such are riches; they come and go in the blink of an eye: they are the most unreliable of friends.

79. A foolish man, even if he gains wealth or a woman's love, becomes increasingly prideful, but never gains wisdom; he just becomes more and more arrogant.

80. Then it becomes clear, if you ask him about the runes known to the high ones, which the [Pg 38]great powers created, and the great talker[20] painted, that it's better for him to stay silent.

81. In the evening, we celebrate the day, a woman after she has suffered, a sword after it has been tested, a maiden after she is married, ice after it has melted, beer after it has been consumed.

82. In the wind, you should chop wood; in a breeze, row out to sea; in the dark, talk to a girl: there are many eyes in the daylight. On a ship, you go on journeys, but a shield is for protection, a sword is for fighting, and a girl is for a kiss.

83. By the fire, one should drink beer, on the ice slide; buy a lean horse, a rusty sword; feed a horse at home, but a dog at the farm.

84. One shouldn't trust a maiden's words or what a woman says; their hearts have been shaped like a turning wheel, and deceit lies within them;

85. In a creaking bow, a burning flame, a yawning wolf, a chattering crow, a grunting pig, a rootless tree, a rising wave, a boiling kettle,

86. A flying dart, a falling wave, a night of ice, a coiled snake, a woman's chatter in bed, a broken sword, a bear's antics, or a royal child,

87. A sick calf, a stubborn servant, a flattering seer, a freshly killed corpse, [a peaceful sky, a laughing lord, a barking dog, and a harlot's sorrow];

88. Don't trust an early-planted field or a son who matures too quickly: the weather dictates the field, and common sense guides the son, but both can be uncertain;[Pg 39]

89. A brother's killer, even if encountered on the main road, a half-burned house, an overly fast horse—(a horse is worthless if it has a broken leg)—no one is naive enough to rely on any of these.

90. This is the nature of women's love, which they often think about as if they were trying to ride a spirited two-year-old horse on slippery ice; or like a ship without a captain being battered in a raging storm; or as if someone who is lame is trying to catch a reindeer on a melting slope.[21]

91. I speak openly now because I understand both men and women: men's feelings toward women are unreliable; we often say the kindest things when we're being the most deceitful. That can even fool the careful ones.

92. A beautiful person should speak, and money should be offered, if someone wants to win a woman's love. Compliment the looks of a lovely lady; those who pursue her will succeed.

93. No one should ever doubt love in someone else: a beautiful face often captivates the wise but doesn't do the same for the foolish.

94. Let no one be surprised by another's stupidity; it's something that affects many. Uncontrollable desire turns even the wisest among us into fools.

95. The mind only understands what is close to the heart; it is the only part that is aware of our feelings. Nothing is worse for a sensible person than being dissatisfied with themselves.

96. I felt that when I sat in the reeds, waiting for my joy. That reserved young woman was everything to me, but I still don’t have her.[Pg 40]

97. Billing's girl[22] on her couch I found, bathed in sunlight, sleeping. A prince's happiness meant nothing to me if I couldn't live with her.

98. "You must come closer, Odin, if you want to persuade the maiden; everything will go wrong unless it's just us who know about this wrongdoing."

99. I came back, intending to love, at her wise request. I believed I would win her entire heart and affection.

100. When I returned, the brave warriors were all awake, with lights on and carrying torches: this was how the path to enjoyment was shut off.

101. But at dawn, when I returned, everyone in the house was asleep; the only one I found was the good lady's dog tied to the bed.

102. Many beautiful women can be unpredictable when you really get to know them: I learned this when I tried to charm that cautious girl: she threw insults of every kind at me; I gained nothing from that young woman.

103. At home, a man should be cheerful, and generous towards guests; he should act wisely, have a good memory, and be ready to speak; if he desires a lot of knowledge, he should often engage in meaningful conversations.

104. Fimbulfambi is what he's called, someone who has little to say: that's how simple people are.

105. I searched for the old Jotun, and now I'm back: I gained little from silence; I spoke at length to my advantage in Suttung's halls.

106. Gunnlod offered me, while sitting on her golden seat, a drink [Pg 41] of the precious mead; I later repaid her poorly for all her heart and her passionate love.

107. I made Rati's mouth open wide and gnaw at the rock; above and below me were the paths of the Jotun: this is how I put my head in danger.

108. I took advantage of a well-established form: wise people rarely fail; for Odhrærir has now appeared among humans in their earthly homes.

109. I doubt I could have come from the Jotun's courts if Gunnlod hadn't helped me, that kind lady, over whom I placed my arm.

110. The next day, the Hrimthursar arrived to find out more about the High One in his hall. They asked Bolverk if he had come with the gods or if Suttung had killed him.

111. Odin, I think, gave a ring-oath[23]. Who can truly trust in his faith? Suttung was cheated, left without his drink, and Gunnlod was brought to tears!

112. It's time to talk from the preacher's chair. By the well of Urd, I sat quietly, watching and thinking, listening to what people said.

113. I heard conversations about runes and divine matters, and they weren't quiet about carving them or wise advice at the High One's hall. In the High One's hall. This is what I heard:

114. I advise you, Loddfafnir, to listen to this advice: you’ll benefit if you do. Don’t go out at night unless you’re exploring or have to leave.[Pg 42]

115. I advise you, Loddfafnir, to listen to this advice; you'll benefit from it if you do. You shouldn't think you can sleep in the embrace of an enchantress, as she will hold you tightly in her arms.

116. She will make you indifferent to things or a prince’s words; you will avoid food and human pleasures; you will fall asleep feeling sad.

117. I advise you, etc. Never let another man's wife lure you into private conversation.

118. I advise you, etc. If you have to travel through the woods or by the river, make sure to pack enough food.

119. I advise you, etc. Never let a bad person know your troubles; because from a bad person, you will never get anything back for your kindness.

120. I witnessed a man get mortally wounded by a wicked woman's words; a deceitful tongue led to his death, and it was incredibly unjust.

121. I advise you, etc. If you know you have a friend you can really trust, visit them often; because a path overgrown with brushwood and tall grass is one that nobody walks on.

122. I advise you, etc. A good person will draw you into enjoyable conversations; and valuable speech learn while you live.

123. I advise you, etc. Never be the one to start a fight with your friend. Worry eats away at you if you can't share your true thoughts with anyone.

124. I advise you, etc. These are words you should never share with a clueless idiot;

125. From a bad person, you'll never receive good in return; but a good person will earn you favor through their praise.[Pg 43]

126. There’s a mix of affection, where you can share your thoughts with someone. Anything is better than being with someone dishonest. A true friend doesn’t always agree with you.

127. I advise you, etc. Even in three words, don’t argue with someone worse than you: often the better person backs down when the worse one attacks.

128. I advise you, etc. Don't be a shoemaker or a fletcher, unless it's for yourself; because a poorly made shoe or a crooked arrow will bring trouble upon you.

129. I advise you, etc. Wherever you see harm, consider that harm as if it were your own; and do not give your enemies any peace.

130. I advise you, etc. Never take joy in evil; instead, let good bring you happiness.

131. I advise you, etc. In a battle, don’t look up, (like pigs, people become) so that others can't captivate you.

132. If you want to get a good woman to engage in pleasant conversation, you must promise sincerely and stick to it: no one turns away from something good if it can be obtained.

133. I urge you to be cautious, but not overly so; be especially careful when drinking, and with another man’s wife; and lastly, don’t let thieves trick you.

134. Never insult or mock a guest or traveler. Those inside often have no idea what background the newcomers may have.

135. People have a mix of both vices and virtues inside them; no one is completely good without any flaws, nor is anyone so bad that they have no redeeming qualities.[Pg 44]

136. Never laugh at an old speaker; often what the elderly say is valuable, and wise words often come from a wrinkled exterior; from those whose skin hangs down and is marked with scars, and who walk unsteadily among the lowly.

137. I advise you, etc. Don’t insult a guest, nor push him away from your door; treat the needy well; they will speak highly of you.

138. It's a tough barrier that has to be lifted to let everyone in. Just give a penny, or they'll unleash every kind of misery on you.

139. I advise you, etc. Whenever you drink beer, call upon the power of the earth; for the earth is effective against alcohol, fire for illnesses, the oak for constipation, and a corn ear for magic. In cases of deep hatred, call upon the moon; the bitter helps with injuries from bitterness; but use runes to ward off disasters; let the earth absorb any fluid.

140. I know that I hung on a swaying tree for nine full nights, with a spear piercing me, and I offered myself to Odin, giving myself to myself; on that tree, whose origin no one knows.

141. No one gave me bread or a drink, [Pg 45]I looked down, focused on the runes, learned their meanings while I cried, then collapsed afterward.

142. I learned nine powerful songs from the famous son of Bolthorn, Bestla's father, and I got a drink of the precious mead, drawn from Odhrærir.

143. Then I started to make progress, learning many things, and growing well: I looked for words, piece by piece, and sought out facts, one by one.

144. You will find runes and explained symbols, very large symbols, very powerful symbols, which the great speaker described, and the high powers created, and the prince of the powers engraved:

145. Odin among the Aesir, but among the elves, Dain and Dvalin for the dwarfs, Asvid for the giants: some I carved myself.

146. Do you know how to engrave them? Do you know how to explain them? Do you know how to illustrate them? Do you know how to prove them? Do you know how to pray? Do you know how to offer? Do you know how to send?[25] Do you know how to consume?

147. It's better not to pray than to offer too much; a gift always expects something in return. It's better not to send than to consume too much. So Thund carved this before the beginning of humanity, where he ascended, to where he later returned.

148. I know songs that the king's wife and no man knows. The first one is called "Help," and it will assist you against struggles and worries.[Pg 46]

149. For the second I know what people need, who will live like leeches. * * * *

150. For the third I know,[26] if I really need to hold back my enemies, I dull the weapons' edge: my enemies' arms and tricks can't hurt me at all.

151. For the fourth, I know that if people put chains on my limbs, I can still sing in a way that lets me walk; the chains start from my feet, and the cuffs from my hands.

152. For the fifth, I know that if I see a shot from an enemy, an arrow flying through the crowd so fast that I can’t stop it, as long as I at least catch a glimpse of it.

153. For the sixth, I know that if someone wounds me with the roots of a green tree; [27] and if a man expresses hatred towards me, that hatred will end up hurting him before it affects me.

154. For the seventh, I know that if I see a tall house on fire with its residents inside, it won't burn so fiercely that I can't save it. That's a song I can sing.

155. For the eighth, I know what is useful for everyone to learn: where hatred exists among people—that I can easily calm down.

156. For the ninth, I know that if I need to save my boat on the water, I can calm the wind on the waves and soothe the sea.

157. For the tenth, I know that if I see troll-wives playing in the air, I can make it so they will abandon their own shapes and their own thoughts.

158. For the eleventh, I know that if I have to lead my [Pg 47]old friends into battle, I sing under their shields, and with strength, they go into the fight safely, coming back safe; they move securely on all sides.

159. For the twelfth, I know that if I see a corpse hanging from a noose on a tree, I can carve it so deeply and in runes that the man will rise and talk with me.

160. For the thirteenth, I know that if I sprinkle water on a young man, he won’t fall, even if he goes into battle: that man will not be defeated by swords.

161. As for the fourteenth, I know that if I have to list the gods in the company of men, including the Æsir and Alfar, I understand the differences among them all. Not many who lack skill can do this.

162. For the fifteenth, I know what the dwarf Thiodreyrir sang outside Delling's doors. He sang of strength for the Æsir, prosperity for the Alfar, and wisdom for Hroptatyr.

163. For the sixteenth, I know that if I want to win the favor and affection of a modest girl, I must completely change the soul of the lovely maiden with the white arms and fully turn her thoughts.

164. On the seventeenth, I know that the young woman will unwillingly stay away from me. These songs, Loddfafnir! you've been missing for a long time; but it could be helpful if you understand them and beneficial if you learn them.

165. For the eighteenth, I know what I never share with any woman, (it's better to know things that are kept to oneself. This is the end of the songs) except for the one who holds me in her arms, or is my sister.

166. Now the songs of the High-one are sung in the High-one's hall, beneficial to the sons of men but meaningless to the Jotuns' sons. Cheers to him who has sung them! Cheers to him who knows them! May those who have learned them benefit! Cheers to those who have listened to them!

1. Once the celestial gods were fishing and drinking, before they uncovered the truth.[28] They shook their rods[29] and checked for blood when they discovered a shortage of kettles at Oegir's.

2. The rock-dweller sat happily like a child, much like Miskorblindi's son. In his eyes, Ygg's son looked at him steadily. "You will often offer a drink to the Æsir."

3. He stirred up trouble for the Jotun with his unkind words: he immediately plotted revenge against the gods. He asked Sif's husband to bring him a kettle "so I can brew beer for all of you."

4. The famous gods found that impossible, and neither could the great powers achieve it, until from genuine kindness, Ty gave Hlorridi some helpful advice.

5. "East of Elivagar lives the all-wise Hymir, at the edge of heaven. My father, who has a fiery temperament, owns a large kettle, a deep cauldron."

Thor.

6. "Do you know if we can get the liquor boiler?"

Ty.

"Yes, friend! If we use our strategy." They quickly moved forward that day from Asgard until they reached the giant's home.

7. Thor paused with his goats, grand with their impressive horns, then headed towards the hall that Hymir owned. His grandmother's son was most displeasing to him; she had nine hundred heads.

8. But another came shining bright, fair-faced, bringing the beer cup to her son:

9. "You Jotun kin! I will put you both under the kettles. My husband is often stingy towards guests and tends to be in a bad mood."

10. But the monster, the fierce-souled Hymir, had just come home from hunting. He entered the hall, and the icebergs echoed as the brute came closer; the bristles on his cheeks were frozen.

11. "Hello, Hymir! Be in good spirits: your son has arrived at your hall, just as we expected after his long journey; he is accompanied by our well-known opponent, the friend of humanity, who is called Veor.

12. Look where they sit under the hall's roof, as if to avoid you: the pillar stands in front of them." The pillar trembled at the Jotun's gaze; the beam was the first to snap in two.

13. Eight kettles fell, but only one of them, a tough cauldron, came down intact from the column. The two emerged, but the old giant with keen eyes examined his opponent.

14. He had a bad feeling about it when he saw the giantess's sorrow on the floor coming. Then three oxen were taken, and the Jotun ordered them to be boiled immediately.

15. Each one they made a head shorter, and afterward, they took them to the fire. Sif's partner ate two of Hymir's oxen completely before he went to sleep, all by himself.

16. It seemed to the old friend of Hrungnir that Hlorridi's reflection was quite substantial: "We three shall have to make do with whatever we catch tomorrow night."

17. Veor said he would row on the sea if the brave Jotun would supply him with bait: "Go to the herd, (if you trust in your courage, crusher of the rock-dwellers!) to look for bait.

18. I expect that you will easily get bait from an ox." The guest hurried off to the forest, where a completely black ox stood in front of him.

19. The Thursar's bane ripped from an ox the lofty height of his two horns. "To me, your work seems much worse, ruler of ships! than if you had just stayed silent."

20. The goat lord, related to the apes, asked the wooden horse to move further out; but the giant stated his slight wish to row a bit more.

21. The powerful Hymir pulled up two whales by himself with his hook; meanwhile, at the stern behind him, Veor cleverly made him a line.

22. Hung on the hook was the shield of warriors, the slayer of serpents, the head of an ox. Stared at the bait was the enemy of the gods, the one that encircles every land below. [30]

[Pg 51]23. Drew up boldly the mighty Thor, the venomous worm glistening, to the side; with his hammer he struck, on the summit of its foul head, like a towering rock, the brother of the wolf.

24. The icebergs echoed, the caverns screamed, the old earth contracted: finally, the fish sank back into the ocean.[31]

25. The Jotun was not happy as they rowed back, so the strong Hymir said nothing, but the oar changed direction.

26. "Will you help me with half the work, either bringing the whales back home or securing the boat?"

27. Hlorridi went, grabbed the front of the boat quickly, with its water-catch, lifted the water-horse, along with its oars and scoop; carried the Jotun's ocean-swine, the curved vessel, through the forested hills.

28. But the Jotun still frowned, used to conflict, and argued with Thor, saying that no one is strong, no matter how hard he rows, unless he can break his cup.

29. But Hlorridi, when it was in his hands, immediately broke an upright stone in two; sitting, he smashed the cup against the pillars: yet they brought it back whole to Hymir.

30. Until the beautiful woman offered crucial, friendly advice, which she alone understood: "Aim for the head of Hymir, the Jotun who is burdened with food, as it's tougher than any cup."

31. Rose then on his knee the stern lord of goats, [Pg 52]dressed in all his godlike power. The old man's helmet was still intact, but the round wine-bearer was shattered into pieces.

32. "I know I've lost a lot now that I see my drink knocked from my knees." So the old man said: "I can never say again, beer, you're too hot."

33. "Now it will be tested if you can carry the beer container out of our home." Ty tried twice to move the container, but each time it remained stuck.

34. Then Modi's father grabbed the brim and walked through the floor of the house. Sif's partner lifted the kettle onto his head, with its rings jingling around his heels.

35. They had traveled a long way before Odin's son glanced back: he saw, from the caverns, with Hymir from the east, a pack of many-headed monsters approaching.

36. He lifted the kettle off his shoulders; Miollnir was thrown towards the fierce crew and killed all the mountain giants who had been chasing him with Hymir.

37. They hadn’t traveled far when one of Hlorridi's goats fell down half-dead in front of the cart. It had jumped from the yoke across the trace, but the trickster Loki was the reason for this.

38. Now you've heard—what storyteller could explain it better—what compensation he got from the giant: he paid for it with both of his children. [32]

[Pg 53]39. Filled with pride, he joined the gods' council and brought along the kettle that Hymir owned, from which every god will drink beer with Oegir during every harvest season.

1. Wroth was Vingthor when he woke up, and he noticed his hammer was gone; he shook his beard, struck his forehead, and the son of earth felt everything around him;

2. And to begin with, he said these words: "Listen now, Loki! What I'm about to say is something no one knows anywhere on earth or in heaven above; the Aesir's hammer has been stolen!"

3. They went to the fair Freyia's home, and he said these words first: "Will you lend me, Freyia, your feather-garment, so that I might possibly find my hammer?"

Freyia.

4. "I would give that to you, even if it were made of gold, and I would trust you with it, even if it were made of silver."

5. Loki flew on—his feathers rustling—until he passed beyond the homes of the Æsir and entered the land of the giants.

6. Thrym, the lord of the giants, sat on a mound, braiding gold bands for his greyhounds and grooming his horses' manes.[Pg 54]

7. "How are the Æsir? How are the Alfar? Why have you come alone to Jotunheim?"

Loki.

8. "Things are bad for the Æsir, things are bad for the Alfar. Do you have Hlorridi's hammer hidden?"

Thrym.

9. "I have Hlorridi's hammer buried eight rasts underground; no one will get it back unless they bring me Freyia as a wife."

10. Loki flew, the feathers rustling, until he reached the Jotun's homes and entered the courts of the Æsir; there he met Thor in the central courtyard, who spoke these words first.

11. "Have you found success along with your hard work? Share with me the news from the skies. Often, the stories from someone who is sitting are incomplete, and those who lie down speak untruths."

Loki.

12. "I've worked hard and achieved something: Thrym has your hammer, the lord of the giants. No one will get it back unless they bring him Freyia as his wife."

13. They went to find beautiful Freyia; and he first said these words: "Dress yourself in bridal attire, Freyia, we must go to Jotunheim together."

14. Freyia was furious, and her anger shook the entire hall of the Æsir: the famous Brisinga necklace shattered into pieces. "You can call me the most promiscuous of women if I go with you to Jotunheim."[Pg 55]

15. Immediately, the Æsir gathered for a meeting, and the Asyniur engaged in conversation; the powerful gods discussed how they could recover Hlorridi's hammer.

16. Then Heimdall, the brightest of the Æsir—who could see the future like the other Vanir—said, "Let's dress Thor in bridal clothing and give him the famous Brisinga necklace."

17. "Let keys jingle by his side, and women's clothing fall around his knees, but on his chest place valuable gems, and a tidy cap on his head."

18. Then said Thor, the mighty As: "The Æsir will call me weak if I let myself be dressed in wedding clothes."

19. Then Loki, son of Laufey, said: "Hey, Thor! You need to stop talking like that. The giants will move into Asgard if you don't get your hammer back soon."

20. Then they dressed Thor in wedding clothes, and with the beautiful Brisinga necklace, let keys jingle by his side, and women's garments drape around his knees; and on his chest placed precious stones, and a tidy headdress set on his head.

21. Then Loki, son of Laufey, said: "I will go with you as a servant: we will both travel to Jotunheim."

22. Right away, the goats were driven home, rushed back to the traces; they had to run fast. The rocks shattered, the ground was on fire; Odin's son headed to Jotunheim.

23. Then Thrym, the lord of the giants, said: "Get up, Jotuns! Decorate the benches, as they're bringing me Freyja as my wife, Niord's daughter from Noatun."

24. "Let's bring gold-horned cows and all-black oxen to our court for the Jotuns' delight. I have plenty of treasures and many necklaces; it just seems like Freyia is the only one missing."

25. In the evening, they arrived early, and beer was served for the Jotuns. Thor alone devoured an ox, eight salmon, and all the sweets that women should have. Sif's husband drank three bowls of mead.

26. Then Thrym, the giant's prince, said: "Where have you seen brides eat with such appetite? I've never seen brides eat so well, nor a girl drink so much mead."

27. The clever maid sat nearby, ready with words against the Jotun's talk: "Freyia hasn’t eaten for eight nights because she was so eager to get to Jotunheim."

28. Beneath her veil, he leaned in, eager to greet her, but quickly pulled back down the hall. "Why do Freyia's eyes look so intense? It feels like there's a fire burning in them."

29. The clever serving girl sat nearby, ready with the right words to counter the Jotun's speech: "Freyia hasn't slept for eight nights, so desperate was she to get to Jotunheim."

30. In came the Jotun's unfortunate sister, and she boldly asked for a bride-gift: "Give me the red rings from your hands, if you want to win my love, my love and favor completely."

31. Then Thrym, the lord of the giants, said: "Bring in the hammer to bless the bride; lay Mjölnir on [Pg 57]the maiden's lap; join us together by the hand of Vor."

32. Hlorridi's heart laughed inside him when he recognized the fierce-hearted hammer. First, he defeated Thrym, the lord of the Thursar, and crushed the entire race of Jotun.

33. He killed the old sister of the Jotun, the one who had asked for a bride gift; instead of coins, she received a blow, a hammer's strike worth many rings. That's how Odin's son got his hammer back.

Alvis.

1. The benches they are decorating, now the bride[33] will make her way home with me. It will be clear to everyone that I rushed beyond my limits: at home, nothing will disturb my peace.

Vingthor.

2. Who is this guy? Why do you look so pale around the nose? Did you sleep with corpses last night? You really look like the Thursar. You’re not meant to take a bride.

Alvis.

3. My name is Alvis, and I live underground, beneath the rock where I have a home. I am the lord of chariots, and I've come to pay a visit. Once a promise is made, no one should break it.[34]

Vingthor

4. I'll break it; because I have the most power over the girl as her father. I wasn't around when the promise was made to you. I'm the only one among the gods who can give it.

Alvis.

5. Who is this man that claims power over that beautiful, bright girl? Few will recognize you from far away. Who has adorned you with bracelets?

Vingthor.

6. My name is Vingthor, and I have traveled far; I am the son of Sidgrani: you will not have that young woman through my disagreement, nor will you achieve that union.

Alvis.

7. I really want your approval, and to make that connection happen. I would much rather have than be without that pure-hearted girl.

Vingthor.

8. The young woman's love won’t be denied to you, wise guest! if you can tell me everything I want to know about all the realms.

Alvis.

9. Vingthor! You can try, since you want to prove the knowledge of the dwarf. I have traveled through all nine worlds and met every being known.

Vingthor.

10. Tell me, Alvis!—since I assume you, dwarf, know about all human matters—what is the name of the earth that lies before mankind in every world?

Alvis.

11. It's called Jord among men, but among the Æsir it's known as fold; the Vanir call it vega, the Jotuns igroen, the Alfar groandi, and the supreme powers refer to it as aur.

Vingthor.

12. Tell me, Alvis, etc. what the name of the heaven is that can be seen in every world.

Alvis

13. People call it Heaven; but the gods refer to it as Hlyrnir; the Vanir call it Vindofni, the Jotuns call it Uppheimr, the Alfar call it Fagraræfr, and the dwarfs call it Driupansal.

Vingthor

14. Tell me, Alvis! etc., what the moon is called that people see in every world.

Alvis.

15. It's called "Mani" by people, but the gods refer to it as "mylinn," "hverfanda hvel" in Hel[35] is what they call it, "skyndi" among the Jotuns, and the dwarfs call it "skin"; the Alfar name it "artali."

Vingthor.

16. Tell me, Alvis! etc., what is the name of the sun that everyone sees in each world.

Alvis.

17. Among humans, it's called Sol, but the gods know it as Sunna. The dwarfs call it Dvalinn's game, the Jotuns refer to it as Eyglo, the Alfar call it Fagrahvel, and the sons of the Æsir know it as Alskir.

Vingthor.

18. Tell me, Alvis, etc., what the clouds are called that mix with showers in every world.

Alvis.

19. People call them the sky, but the gods refer to them as skurvan; the Vanir call them vindflot, the Jotuns urvan, the Alfar vedrmegin; in Hel, they are called hialm hulids.

Vingthor.

20. Tell me, Alvis! etc., what is the name of the wind that blows across every world?

Alvis.

21. It’s called Windr by men, but vavudr by the gods; the wide-ruling powers call it gneggiud, the Jotuns call it oepir, the Alfar call it dynfari, and in Hel, they call it hvidudr.

Vingthor.

22. Tell me, Alvis! etc., what do we call the calm that must exist in every world?

Alvis.

23. It's called Logn by humans, but lægi by the gods, the Vanir refer to it as vindslot, the Jotuns call it ofhly, the Alfar say dagsevi, and the Dwarfs name it dags vera.

Vingthor.

24. Tell me, Alvis! etc., what is the name of the sea that people row across in every world.

Alvis.

25. It's called sær by humans, but silægia by the gods; the Vanir call it vagr, the Jotuns call it alheimr, the Alfar call it lagastafr, and the Dwarfs call it diupan mar.

Vingthor.

26. Tell me, Alvis! etc., what do we call the fire that burns before the sons of men in every world?

Alvis.

27. It's called Eldr by humans, but the Æsir refer to it as funi; the Vanir call it vagr, the Jotuns call it frekr, while the Dwarfs name it forbrennir; in Hel, it's known as hrodudr.

Vingthor.

28. Tell me, Alvis! etc., what is the name of the forest that grows for the sons of men in every world.

Alvis.

29. Humans call it vidr, but the gods refer to it as vallarfax. The inhabitants of Hel call it hlidthangr, the Jotuns call it eldi, the Alfar call it fagrlimi, and the Vanir call it vondr.

Vingthor.

30. Tell me, Alvis! etc., what is the name of the night that Norvi's daughter is called in every world.

Alvis.

31. It's called Nott by people, but by the gods, it's niol; the [Pg 62]wide-ruling powers refer to it as grima, the Jotuns as olios, the Alfar as svefngaman; the Dwarfs call it draumniorunn.

Vingthor.

32. Tell me, Alvis! etc., what is the name of the seed that humans plant in every world.

Alvis.

33. It's called Bygg by people, but by the gods it's called barr, the Vanir call it vaxtr, the Jotuns refer to it as æti, the Alfar know it as lagastafr; in Hel, it’s called hnipinn.

Vingthor.

34. Tell me, Alvis! etc., what do people call the beer that the sons of men drink in every world?

Alvis.

35. It's called ale by men, but the Æsir call it biorr, the Vanir call it veig, the Jotuns refer to it as hreina logr, but in Hel it's called miodr: Suttung's sons call it sumbl.

Vingthor.

36. In one breast I have never found more ancient knowledge. You've been tricked, I tell you, by clever schemes. You're above ground, dwarf! It’s dawn; the sun is already shining in the hall!

Thor, traveling from the east, arrived at a strait or sound, where he found a ferryman with his boat on the other side. Thor shouted:—

1. Who is that scoundrel over there, standing by the noise?

Harbard.

2. Who is the biggest jerk, shouting across the water?

Thor.

3. Take me across the sound; tomorrow I’ll treat you. I have a basket on my back, and there’s no better food. I enjoyed herrings and oats comfortably before I left home, and I’m still feeling full from that.

Harbard.

4. You're quick to praise your meal: you clearly don't know what's coming; for your home will be sad: your mother, I believe, is dead.

Thor.

5. You're now saying what seems to be the most unwelcome news to everyone—that my mother is dead.

Harbard.

6. You don't look like someone who owns three country houses; you're standing here bare-legged and dressed like a beggar; you don't even have pants.

Thor.

7. Row your boat this way; I'll show you where to land. But whose boat is this that you’re holding by the shore?

Harbard.

8. Hildolf fief is named after the man who told me to keep it, a wise council member who lives in Radso sound. He instructed me not to ferry robbers or horse-stealers, but only good people and those I knew well. So tell me your name if you want to cross the sound.

Thor.

9. I will tell you my name, (even though I'm an outlaw) and all my family: I am Odin's son, Meili's brother, and Magni's father, the powerful leader of the gods: You can speak here with Thor. Now, I want to know what your name is.

Harbard.

10. I am called Harbard; I rarely hide my name.

Thor.

11. Why should you hide your name unless you've committed a crime?

Harbard.

12. Yet, even if I have committed a crime, I will still protect my life from someone like you; unless I am doomed to die.

[Pg 65]Thor.

13. It feels like a huge hassle to slog across the strait to you and get my clothes wet: but I'll make you pay for your sharp words if I come over the sound.

Harbard.

14. Here I will stand, and here I will wait for you. You won’t find anyone stronger since Hrungnir's death.

Thor.

15. You remind me of how I fought Hrungnir, that tough giant with a head made of stone; still, I brought him down and defeated him. What were you doing, Harbard?

Harbard.

16. I spent five winters with Fiolvari on the island called Algron. There we could fight, cause destruction, face many dangers, and indulge in love.

Thor.

17. How did your women treat you?

Harbard.

18. We had lively women, if only they had been gentle; we had clever ones, if only they had been nice. They twisted a rope from sand and dug the earth from the deep valley. I alone was more cunning than all of them. I rested with the seven sisters, sharing their love and pleasures. Meanwhile, what were you doing, Thor?

Thor.

19. I killed Thiassi, that brave giant: I tossed Allvaldi's son's eyes into the clear sky: they are symbols of the greatest of my accomplishments. What were you doing in the meantime, Harbard?

Harbard.

20. I employed great seductive skills against the riders of the night,[36] when I lured them away from their husbands. I thought Hlebard was a powerful giant: he gave me a magic wand, but I outsmarted him.

Thor.

21. With a wicked heart, you returned good gifts, Harbard.

22. One tree takes what's scraped from another: each one in that case acts for itself. Meanwhile, what did you do, Thor?

Thor.

23. I was in the east, where I defeated the Jotun brides, who were clever in their wickedness, as they headed to the mountain. The Jotun race would have been immense if they all had survived; there would have been no one left in Midgard. Meanwhile, what were you doing, Harbard?

Harbard.

24. I was in Valland, and involved in battles; I stirred up the princes, but never made peace with them. Odin claims all the nobles who fall in battle; but Thor takes the common folks.

Thor.

25. You would unfairly divide the people among the Æsir if you had the power.

Harbard.

36. Thor has way too much strength, but no courage at all; out of cowardice and fear, you were stuffed into a glove, and you barely thought you were Thor. You didn’t dare to sneeze or cough because you were so scared that Fialar might hear you.

Thor.

27. Harbard, you miserable creature! I would strike you dead if I could just reach my arm across the water.

Harbard.

28. Why would you reach your arm across the sound when there is no offense at all? But what did you do, Thor?

Thor.

39. I was in the east, defending a river when the sons of Svarang attacked me and threw stones at me, but they didn't enjoy their success for long: they were the first to ask for peace. What were you doing at that time, Harbard?

Harbard.

30. I was in the east, and I talked with a certain girl; I spent time with her, and we had long meetings. I delighted that golden-haired one; the game entertained her.

Thor.

31. So, did you have kind ladies there?

Harbard.

32. I needed your help, Thor! to keep that beautiful girl close.

Thor.

33. I would have given it to you if I had the chance.

Harbard.

34. I would have trusted you; my confidence in you would have remained if you hadn't betrayed it.

Thor.

35. I'm not as annoying as an old leather shoe in the spring.

Harbard.

36. What were you doing, Thor?

Thor.

37. I fought the Berserkers' brides on Læsso; they had committed the worst acts and had seduced the entire population.

Harbard.

38. You acted cowardly, Thor! when you beat women.

Thor.

39. They were like she-wolves, hardly resembling women. They smashed my ship, which I had secured with supports, threatened me with iron clubs, and chased away Thialfi. What were you doing during all this, Harbard?

Harbard.

40. I was in the army, which was sent here to raise war banners and stain lances with blood.

[Pg 69]Thor.

41. Now that you're going to talk about it, you made it clear how strict your terms are when you came to us.

Harbard.

42. That will be compensated with a ring, like the ones arbitrators give when they want to bring us back together.

Thor.

43. Where did you learn words that I've never heard that are more annoying?

Harbard.

44. I learned them from men, from ancient men, whose home is in the woods.

Thor.

45. You definitely give a good name to grave mounds when you call them homes in the woods.

Harbard.

46. So I talk about this topic.

Thor.

47. Your clever words will bring you trouble if I decide to strike back. You will howl louder than a wolf, I bet, if you get hit by my hammer.

Harbard.

48. Sif has a brave man at home; you will be eager to find him: you should do that challenging task; it will suit you better.

Thor.

49. You say what's on your mind, but it annoys me the most, you cowardly scoundrel! I think you're lying.

Harbard.

50. I believe I’m speaking the truth. You’re moving slowly; you would have arrived a long time ago if you had taken a different approach.

Thor.

51. Harbard! you miserable person! it's actually you who has held me back.

Harbard.

52. I never thought that a ferryman could slow down the journey of Asa-Thor.

Thor.

53. One piece of advice I’ll give you: row over here with your boat; let’s stop the threats; come closer to the father of Magni.

Harbard.

54. Go further from the noise; the path is closed to you.

Thor.

55. Then show me the way, if you're not going to take me across the water.

Harbard.

56. That's too small to pass up. It’s quite a journey; it’s an hour to the stock and another hour to the stone; then take the left path until you reach Verland. There, Fiorgyn will find her son Thor and show him the way to his relatives in Odin's land.

Thor.

57. Can I get there today?

Harbard.

58. With pain and effort, you might make it there while the sun is still up, which I believe is almost now.

Thor.

59. Our conversation will be brief now, since you only respond with mockery. For denying me a ride, I will repay you if we meet again.

Harbard.

60. Just go to where all the forces of evil can reach you.

Frey, son of Niord, had one day sat down in Hlidskialf, looking out over all the realms, when he noticed a beautiful girl in Jotunheim as she walked from her father's home to her chamber. This sight greatly troubled him. Frey's servant was named Skirnir; Niord wanted to speak with Frey, when Skadi said:—

1. Get up now, Skirnir! Go and ask our son to talk; and find out who he might be upset with.

Skirnir.

2. I'm worried about the harsh words I might get from your son if I go to talk to him and ask who he might be upset with.

Skirnir.

3. Tell me now, Frey, prince of gods! I want to know, why do you sit alone in the big hall all day long?

Frey.

4. Why should I share with you, young man, the deep troubles of my mind? The Alfs' light shines every day, but it doesn’t bring me any joy.

Skirnir.

5. I don’t think your worries can be so big that you can’t share them with me; after all, we grew up together when we were young: we could definitely trust each other.

Frey.

6. In Gymir's courts, I saw a maid walking whom I long for. Her arms radiated light that shone in all the air and water.

7. I find her more desirable than any young man in my early days; yet no one, whether gods or elves, will have us live together.

Skirnir.

8. Just give me your horse, which can carry me through the twilight, flickering fire, and that sword, which fights against the giants.

[Pg 73]Frey.

9. I will give you my horse, which can carry you through the twilight, flickering flame, and that sword, which will swing itself if the one who picks it up is brave.

Skirnir Talks to the Horse.

10. It's dark outside, it's time for us to cross the misty hills, through the Thursar's land: we'll either both return, or the powerful Jotun will catch us both. Skirnir rides to Jotunheim, to Gymir's home, where fierce dogs were chained at the entrance of the enclosure surrounding Gymir's hall. He rides on to where a cowherd is sitting on a mound and says to him:

11. Tell me, cowherd! as you sit on the mound, watching all the paths, how I can approach the young maiden, for Gymir's dogs?

Shepherd.

12. Either you're doomed to die, or you're already gone. You'll never be able to talk to the good girl of Gymir.

Skirnir.

13. There are better options than complaining for someone who's ready to die: my lifespan was set for a specific day, and my entire life was predetermined.

Gerd.

14. What is that sound I’m hearing inside our home? The ground is shaking, and the whole house of Gymir is trembling.

A maid.

15. A man is here outside, off his horse: he lets his horse graze on the grass.

Gerd.

16. Tell him to come into our hall and enjoy the fresh mead; though I worry it’s my brother’s killer who is waiting outside.

17. Who are you, one of the Alfar, the sons of the Æsir, or of the wise Vanir? Why have you come alone, through the hostile fire, to visit our halls?

Skirnir.

18. I am not one of the Alfar, nor one of the sons of the Æsir, nor one of the wise Vanir; still, I have come alone, through the dangerous flames, to visit your halls.

19. I have eleven golden apples here: I'll give them to you, Gerd, to win your love, so you can say that Frev loves you the most.

Gerd.

20. I will never accept those eleven apples for anyone's enjoyment; nor will Frey and I live together for as long as we both shall live.

Skirnir.

21. I will also give you the ring that was burned with Odin's young son. Every ninth night, eight rings of equal weight will drop from it.

Gerd.

22. I won’t take the ring, no matter how much it may have been burned by Odin’s young son. I have plenty of gold in Gymir's halls; I share in my father's wealth.

Skirnir.

23. Do you see this sword, young lady! It’s thin and shiny, right here in my hand? I will cut off your head if you don’t speak kindly to me.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

24. I will never be forced to please anyone; however, I can see that if you meet Gymir, you will both rush to battle.

Skirnir.

25. Do you see this sword, young lady! It's thin and shining bright, which I have in my hand? Under its blade, the old giant will fall: your father is doomed to die.

26. With a taming wand, I strike you, and I will tame you, girl! To my will. You will go there, where the sons of men will never see you again.

27. You shall sit early on an eagle's perch, looking and facing Hel. Food will be more disgusting to you than the glistening serpent is to anyone among men.

28. You will be a prodigy when you step out; Hrimnir will look at you, all beings will stare at you; you will become more well-known than the watch among the gods,[37] if you gape from your grates.

29. Loneliness and disgust, connection and impatience, will make your tears grow with grief. Sit down, and I'll tell you about an overwhelming flood of worries and a double sorrow.[Pg 76]

30. Fears will weigh you down all day long in the giants' courts. You will drag yourself into the halls of the frost giants every day, feeling exhausted and without joy; your only pastime will be to cry, filled with tears and misery.

31. With a three-headed Thursday, you will always be tied down, or you'll be alone. Your thoughts will pull you apart from dawn to dawn: like a thistle, you will be that has pushed itself onto the rooftop.

32. I have been to the wilderness, and to the damp grove, to get a magic wand. I got a magic wand.

33. Odin is angry with you, the prince of the Æsir is angry with you; Frey will hate you, even before you, wicked woman! have experienced the gods' terrible wrath.

34. Listen up, Jotuns! listen up, Hrimthursar! sons of Suttung! and you, friends of the Æsir! I am here to forbid and prevent man's joy from reaching the maiden, and man's conversation with her.

35. Hrimgrimnir the Frost Giant is named, and he will take you, in the grinding darkness of the dead below; there, miserable spirits, from the roots of the tree, will give you the water of goats. You will never get any other drink, maiden! Not for your pleasure, nor for my pleasure.

36. Thurs[38] I will cut for you, and three letters only: ergi, oedi, and othola. I will carve them out, just as I have carved them, if there is a need to do so.

Gerd.

37. Hail to you, young man! Here’s an icy cup filled with old mead; I never thought I would end up loving someone from the Vanir.

Skirnir.

38. I will know all my errands before I ride home. When will you talk with the powerful son of Niord?

Gerd.

39. It's called Barri, the grove we both know, the grove of calm paths. In nine nights, Gerd will bring joy to Niord's son there.

Skimir then rode home. Frey was standing outside and spoke to him, asking for news:

40. Tell me, Skirnir! Before you unsaddle your horse and go a step away, what have you achieved in Jotunheim, for your pleasure or mine?

Skirnir.

41. The grove is called Barri, which we both know, the grove of calm paths. In nine nights, Gerd will give joy to Niord's son there.

Frey.

42. One night feels long, but two will feel even longer; how will I get through three? Often, a month has felt shorter to me than just half a night of longing.

In ancient Sagas, it's said that one of the Æsir named Heimdall, while traveling to a certain coastline, arrived at a village where he referred to himself as Rig. This Saga continues as follows:

1. In ancient times, they say, along the lush paths walked the wise and righteous As, the strong and energetic Rig, continuing on his journey.

2. He walked forward on the path and arrived at a house. The door was slightly open, so he stepped inside; there was a fire on the floor. The man and woman sat there, gray-haired, by the hearth, Ai and Edda, dressed in old-fashioned clothes.

3. Rig would give advice to both of them, with himself sitting in the middle seat, having the couple on either side.

4. Then Edda took a loaf from the ashes, heavy and thick, mixed with bran; she placed more on the center of the table; there in a bowl was broth, and a boiled calf among the most excellent dishes.

5. Then he got up, ready to sleep: Rig gave advice to both of them; he lay down in the middle of the bed, and the couple lay on either side.

6. He stayed there for three nights, then left halfway. Nine months went by after that.

7. Edda gave birth to a child: they sprinkled its dark skin with water and named it Thræl.[Pg 79]

8. It grew up and thrived well; the skin on its hands was shriveled, the knuckles were knobby, * * * and the fingers were thick; it had an ugly face, a hunched back, and sticking-out heels.

9. He then started to show his strength, working hard to gather and tie up loads; he spent the entire day carrying bundles home.

10. Then a woman walked to the house, her feet scarred, her arms sunburned, her nose flattened; her name was Thy.

11. She took the middle seat, and next to her sat the son of the house. They talked and whispered, making plans for a bed, Thræl and Thy, and days of caring for each other.

12. They had children and lived happily. Their names, I think, were Hreimr and Fiosnir, Klur and Kleggi, Kefsir, Fulnir, Drumb, Digraldi, Drott and Hosvir, Lut and Leggialdi. They built fences, cultivated fields, raised pigs, kept goats, and dug turf.

13. The daughters were Drumba and Kumba, Okkvinkalfa, and Arinnefia, Ysia and Ambatt, Eikintiasna, Totrughypia, and Tronubeina, from whom the race of thralls originated.

14. Rig then continued straight ahead and arrived at a house; the door was slightly open: he walked in; there was a fire on the floor, and a man and woman were sitting there, busy with their work.

15. The man was smoothing wood for a weaver's beam; his beard was neatly trimmed, a lock of hair fell on his forehead, and his shirt was fitted; his chest was resting on the floor.

16. His wife sat nearby, working at her spinning wheel, with her arms stretched out, ready for making clothes. She had a hood on her head, [Pg 80]a loose shirt over her chest, a scarf around her neck, and buttons on her shoulders. Afi and Amma owned the house.

17. Rig gave advice to them both; he got up from the table, got ready for bed, and lay down in the middle of the bed, while the couple lay on either side.

18. There he stayed for three nights in a row. Nine months then went by. Amma gave birth to a child; they sprinkled it with water and named it Karl. The mother wrapped the red-haired baby in linen: its eyes sparkled.

19. It grew up and thrived; learned to train oxen, make a plow, build houses and construct barns, make carts, and drive the plow.

20. Then they brought home a girl with hanging keys and a goatskin skirt; they married her to Karl. Her name was Snor, and she sat under a veil. The couple lived together, exchanged rings, set up couches, and created a household.

21. They had children and lived happily. Their names were Hal and Dreng, Held, Thegn, Smith, Breidr-bondi, Bundinskegg, Bui and Boddi, Brattskegg and Segg.

22. But [the daughters] were referred to by other names: Snot, Brud, Svanni, Svarri, Sprakki, Fliod, Sprund, and Vif, Feima, Ristil; from which the races of commoners originated.

23. Rig then continued on his path and arrived at a hall: the entrance faced south, the door was partially closed, and there was a ring on the doorpost.[Pg 81]

24. He walked in; the floor was scattered, and a couple sat across from each other, Fadir and Modir, playing with their fingers.

25. The husband sat, twisting string, bending his bow, and preparing arrow shafts; while the housewife looked at her arms, smoothed her veil, and adjusted her sleeves;

26. Her headgear was fixed. She wore a clasp on her chest; her robe was roomy, and her dress was blue; her forehead was brighter, her chest fairer, and her neck whiter than freshly fallen snow.

27. Rig offered advice to both of them, sitting in the middle seat with the couple on either side.

28. Then Modir took a patterned cloth made of white linen and set the table. She then took thin cakes of pure white wheat and placed them on the table.

29. She brought out beautifully arranged trays filled with game, pork, and roasted birds. There was wine in a pitcher, and the cups were decorative. They drank and chatted; the day was quickly coming to an end, and Rig would offer advice to both of them.

30. Rig then got up, the bed made; he stayed there three nights in a row, then left halfway through. Nine months later, that time passed.

31. Modir then brought out a boy: they wrapped him in silk, sprinkled him with water, and named him Jarl. His hair was light, his cheeks bright, and his eyes sharp like a young serpent's.

32. There at home, Jarl grew up learning to wield a shield, fix the bowstring, bend the bow, prepare arrows, throw javelins, brandish spears, ride horses, unleash dogs, draw swords, and practice swimming.

33. From the forest, Rig came walking, teaching him runes, giving him his own name, and declaring him his own son, whom he instructed to take over his ancestral lands, his ancestral lands, his old homes.

34. Jarl then rode away, through a dark path, over wet hills, until he reached a hall. He brandished his spear, shook his shield, made his horse dance, and drew his sword, starting a fight, staining the ground red, causing destruction, and conquering lands.

35. Then he ruled alone over eight villages, distributing wealth, giving out treasures and valuable items; thin horses, rings he shared, and collars broken into pieces.[39]

36. The nobles traveled along the humid paths and arrived at a hall where Hersir lived; there they found a slender maiden, beautiful and graceful, named Erna.

37. They wanted her and brought her home, where Jarl married her; she went under the linen[40]. They lived together, thrived well, had children, and enjoyed their old age.

38. Bur was their oldest, Barn the second, followed by Jod, Adal, Arfi, Mog, Nid, and Nidjung. They played games; Son and Svein swam and played at the tables. One was named Kund, and Kon was the youngest.

39. Jarl's children grew up; they trained horses, shaped curved shields, crafted arrows, and wielded spears.

40. But young Kon understood runes, æfin-runes, [Pg 83]and aldr-runes; he also knew how to preserve men, dull edges, and calm the sea.

41. He understood the sounds of birds, how to manage fires to ease, calm, and put out; pains to soothe. He had the strength and energy of eight men.

42. He fought with Rig Jarl in runes, practiced his crafts, and proved to be the better; then he earned the name Rig and became skilled in runes.

43. The young Kon rode through swamps and forests, threw darts, and trained birds.

44. Then the crow sang, sitting alone on a branch! "Why do you want to, young Kon, tame the birds? Instead, you should be riding horses * * * and defeating armies.

45. Neither Dan nor Danp had more expensive homes, more impressive family estates, than you had. They knew exactly how to handle a ship, how to test a blade, and how to inflict wounds.

The rest is lacking.

Oegir, also called Gymir, had brewed beer for the Æsir after he received the great kettle, as previously mentioned. Odin and his wife Frigg came to the gathering. Thor was absent, being in the East, but his wife Sif was there, along with Bragi and his wife Idun, and Ty, who had only one hand because Fenrisulf had bitten it off while he was being bound. Also present were Niord and his wife Skadi, Frey and Freyia, and Odin's son Vidar. Loki was there too, along with Frey's helpers, Byggvir and Beyla. Many other Æsir and Alfar were also in attendance.

Oegir had two servants, Fimafeng and Eldir. Bright gold was used in place of firelight. The beer served itself to the guests. The place was a magnificent sanctuary. The guests praised the skill of Oegir's servants. Loki, unable to tolerate this, killed Fimafeng; as a result, the Æsir shook their shields, shouted at Loki, chased him into the forest, and then returned to drink. Loki came back and found Eldir standing outside, whom he addressed:

1. Tell me, Eldir! Before you take a single step forward, what are the sons of the victorious gods discussing over their drinks?

Eldir.

2. They talk about their weapons and their glory in battle, the sons of the victorious gods. Among the Æsir and the Alfar here, not a single one has a kind word for you.

Loki.

3. I will enter Oegir's halls to see the celebration. I carry strife and hatred for the Æsir's sons, and I will mix their mead with doom.

Eldir.

4. Don’t you know that if you go into Oegir's halls to join the feast, but you pour insults and noise on the gracious powers, they will take it all out on you?

Loki.

5. Don't you know, Eldir, that if we argue with harsh words, I'll have plenty of responses if you say too much?

Loki then entered the hall, but when everyone saw who had come in, they all sat in silence.

Loki

6. I, Lopt, have come thirsty into this hall from a long journey to ask the Æsir for a drink of the sweet mead.

7. Why are you gods so quiet and distant that you can't speak? Choose a seat for me at your table, or tell me to leave.

Bragi.

8. The Æsir will never pick a seat or place for [Pg 86]you at their table; because the Æsir know very well for whom they should celebrate joyously.

Loki.

9. Odin! Do you remember when we first mixed our blood together? When you always refused to drink beer unless it was offered to both of us?

Odin.

10. Get up, Vidar! and let the wolf's father join us in our drinking; so that Loki won’t make insulting remarks in Aegir's hall.

Vidar then stood up and offered Loki a drink, who, before drinking, spoke to the Æsir:

11. Hail, Æsir! Hail, Asyniur! And all of you, sacred gods! Everyone, except that one Aesir, who is over there, Bragi, sitting on that bench.

Bragi

12. I will give you a horse and a sword from my collection, and also reward you with a ring, if you do not repay the Æsir with malice. Do not provoke the gods against you.

Loki.

13. You will always be in need of horses and rings, Bragi! Among the Æsir and the Alfar who are here, you are the least willing to fight, and in the game of darts, you are the most hesitant.

Bragi.

14. I know that if I were outside, like I am now inside the hall of Oegir, I would hold your head in my hand and punish you for lying.

[Pg 87]Loki.

15. You're so brave sitting there, Bragi! But really, you shouldn't just sit there as the bench's hero! Get up and fight if you’re upset; a true warrior doesn’t just sit and think.

Idun.

16. Please, Bragi! Let the bond of children and all adopted sons be enough, and don’t speak to Loki with harsh words in Oegir's hall.

Loki.

17. Be quiet, Idun! Of all women, I say you care the most about men, since you wrapped your well-washed arms around your brother's killer.

Idun.

18. I don't speak to Loki with hurtful words in Oegir's hall. I calm Bragi down with some beer. I don’t want you to fight in anger.

Gefion.

19. Why do you, two Æsir, argue with insulting words here? Lopt doesn’t realize he’s being tricked and is driven by destiny.

Loki.

20. Stay quiet, Gefion! I will now just mention how that handsome young man corrupts your mind, the one who gave you a necklace, and around whom you wrapped your limbs?

Odin.

21. You're going crazy, Loki! You've lost your mind by provoking Gefion's anger; I believe she knows everyone's fate just as well as I do.

Loki.

22. Be quiet, Odin! You’ve never been able to decide conflicts between people: too often you’ve given victory to those who don’t deserve it—cowards.

Odin

23. Do you know that I gave to those I shouldn’t have—victory to cowards? You spent eight years on Earth, being a milk cow and a woman, and you had children there. Now that, I think, shows a low character.

Loki.

24. But, it’s said that you walked with unsteady steps in Samso and knocked on doors like a fortune teller. You moved among the people in a similar way. Now, I think that shows a low character.

Frigg

25. You should never reveal your actions to others, what you, Æsir twins, did in the past. May men's past deeds be forever forgotten!

Loki.

26. Be quiet, Frigg! You’re the daughter of Fiorgyn, and you’ve always been fond of men, since it’s said that Ve and Vili, you, Vidrir’s wife, welcomed both into your arms.

Frigg.

27. Know that if I had a son like Baldr in Oegir's halls, you wouldn't be leaving the sons of the Æsir: you would have been fiercely attacked.

Loki.

28. But will you, Frigg! hear me talk more about my wrongdoing? I am the reason you don't see Baldr riding to the halls.

Freyia.

29. You're crazy, Loki! for talking about your horrible actions. I think Frigg knows everything that goes on, even if she doesn't say it.

Loki.

30. Be quiet, Freyia! I know you very well; you aren't without your flaws: of the Æsir and the Alfar who are here, each has been your lover.

Freyia.

31. Your words are deceitful. From now on, I believe they will bring you no good. The gods and goddesses are angry with you, and you will leave here feeling sad.

Loki.

32. Be quiet, Freyia! You are a sorceress, and with a lot of evil mixed in; because you stirred up the gentle powers against your brother. And then, Freyia! What did you do?

Niord.

33. It's not surprising if women in fancy silk clothes find themselves husbands or lovers; but it is surprising that a miserable woman who has had children should get involved in this.

Loki.

34. Be quiet, Niord! You were sent eastward [Pg 90]as a hostage from the gods. Hymir's daughters used you as a tool, and their flow entered your mouth.[41] Niord.

35. It’s a comfort to me, as I was sent far away, a hostage from the gods, that I had a son whom no one hates and who is considered a leader among the Æsir.

Loki.

36. Stop now, Niord! Control yourself; I can't keep it a secret anymore: it was with your sister that you had such a son; hardly any worse than you are.

Ty.

37. Frey is the greatest of all the powerful gods in the halls of the Æsir: he makes no maid cry, no man's wife, and he frees everyone from their chains.

Loki.

38. Be quiet, Ty! You could never resolve a conflict between two. I also need to mention your right hand, which Fenrir took from you.

Thanks.

39. I’m missing a hand, but you have a good reputation; it’s unfortunate we lack either. The wolf isn’t at peace either: he must wait in chains until the gods cause destruction.

Loki.

40. Be quiet, Ty; it was your wife who had a son with me. You never got any help or money, poor guy! for this wrongdoing.

[Pg 91]Frey.

41. I see the wolf lying at the river's mouth, waiting until the powers are washed away. That’s how you’ll be bound if you don’t stay quiet, you creator of evil.

Loki.

42. With gold you bought Gymir's daughter, and in doing so gave away your sword: but when Muspell's sons ride through the dark forest, you, unfortunate one, will have nothing to fight with.

Byggvir.

43. If I were of noble blood, like Ingun's Frey, and had such a beautiful home, I would smash that ominous crow into soft bits and break him apart, piece by piece.

Loki

44. What little thing is that I see wagging its tail and snapping eagerly? You should always pay attention to the ears of Frey and make some noise by the mills.

Byggvir.

45. My name is Byggvir, and everyone, gods and people alike, considers me clever; that’s why I’m happy here, seeing all the sons of Hropt enjoying beer together.

Loki.

46. Be quiet, Byggvir! You could never share food with people when you were missing, lying in your low bed, while others were out there fighting.

Heimdall.

47. Loki, you're drunk and have lost your senses. [Pg 92]Why don't you stop, Loki? But alcohol has such control over everyone that they don't realize how talkative they’ve become.

Loki.

48. Be quiet, Heimdall! For you were cursed with that miserable life long ago: you must always be wet and stay alert as the guardian of the gods.

Skadi.

49. You’re in a good mood, Loki! It won't be long before you’re tied up tightly; the gods will bind you on a rock using the guts of your icy cold son.

Loki.

50. Know that if the gods bind me on a rocky outcrop with the remains of my cold son, I was the first and foremost present at the slaying when we attacked Thiassi.

Skadi.

51. Know, if you were the one at the killing, when you attacked Thiassi, that from my homes and lands, you will always receive cold advice.

Loki.

52. You were gentler in your words to Laufey's son when you invited me to your bed. We must address these matters if we are to honestly talk about our faults.

Then Sif came out and poured mead for Loki in a cold cup, saying:

53. Hail to you, Loki! and take this chilled cup, filled with ancient mead: at least let me, among the honorable Æsir, remain untainted.

He took the horn, drank, and said:[Pg 93]

54. You should be so alone if you had been strict and careful with your partner; but I know one person, and I think I know him well, a favored rival of Hlorridi, and that is the clever Loki.

Beyla.

55. The hills all shake: I believe Hlorridi is away on a journey. He will make silent the one who insults all gods and people here.

Loki.

56. Be quiet, Beyla! You're Byggvir's wife, and you're mixed up in a lot of wrongdoing: never has a greater monster appeared among the sons of the Æsir. You're a filthy slut.

Thor then walked in and said:

57. Silence, you filthy creature! My powerful hammer, Mjölnir, will put an end to your chatter. I will strike your head from your neck; then your life will be over.

Loki

58. Now the son of the earth has arrived. Why are you so restless, Thor? You won't act like this when you're facing the wolf, who is powerful enough to swallow the father whole.

Thor.

59. Quiet, you unclean spirit! My powerful hammer, Mjolnir, will put an end to your chatter. I will throw you to the east, and no one will see you again.

Loki.

60. You should never talk to people about your travels to the east, since you, Einheri, were curled up in a glove's thumb and barely thought you were Thor.

Thor.

61. Quiet down, you filthy creature! My powerful hammer, Mjolnir, will put an end to your nonsense: with this right hand, I, the bane of Hrungnir, will strike you so hard that every bone in your body will break.

Loki.

62. My plan is to live a long life, even though you threaten me with your hammer. Skrymir's thongs must have felt tough to you when you couldn't get any food, dying of hunger while in good health.

Thor.

63. Silence, you unclean spirit! My powerful hammer, Mjolnir, will put an end to your chatter. The bane of Hrungnir will send you down to Hel, beneath the bars of the dead.

Loki

64. I've mentioned before the Æsir, I've mentioned before the sons of the Æsir, what was on my mind: but for you alone will I step out; because I know that you'll fight.

65. Oegir! You've made beer; but you will never host a gathering again. All your belongings here will be engulfed in flames, and you will be burned on your back.

After this, Loki transformed into a salmon and jumped into the waterfall of Franangr, where the Æsir caught him and bound him with the entrails of his son Nari; his other son, Narfi, was turned into a wolf. Skadi took a poisonous serpent and hung it above Loki's face, with the venom dripping down. Sigyn, Loki's wife, sat nearby, holding a bowl under the venom, and when the bowl filled up, she took the venom away. Meanwhile, the venom dripped on Loki, who flinched so intensely that it shook the entire earth. This is what causes what we now call earthquakes.

1. From the outside wall, he saw someone climbing up to the seat of the giant race.