Runagaldr [English translation]

Those songs I know, which nor sons of men nor queen in a king’s court knows; the first is Help which will bring thee help in all woes and in sorrow and strife.

A second I know, which the son of men must sing, who would heal the sick.

A third I know: if sore need should come of a spell to stay my foes; when I sing that song, which shall blunt their swords, nor their weapons nor staves can wound.

A fourth I know: if men make fast in chains the joints of my limbs, when I sing that song which shall set me free, spring the fetters from hands and feet. A fifth I know: when I see, by foes shot, speeding a shaft through the host, flies it never so strongly I still can stay it, if I get but a glimpse of its flight.

A sixth I know: when some thane would harm me in runes on a moist tree’s root, on his head alone shall light the ills of the curse that he called upon mine. A seventh I know: if I see a hall high o’er the bench-mates blazing, flame it ne’er so fiercely I still can save it, — I know how to sing that song.

An eighth I know: which all can sing for their weal if they learn it well; where hate shall wax ‘mid the warrior sons, I can calm it soon with that song.

A ninth I know: when need befalls me to save my vessel afloat, I hush the wind on the stormy wave, and soothe all the sea to rest.

• Artist:Danheim