Hávamál (English pronunciation: /ˈhɑːvəmɑːl/ hah-və-mahl; "sayings of the high one") is presented as a single poem in the Poetic Edda, a collection of Old Norse poems from the Viking age. The poem, itself a combination of different poems, is largely gnomic, presenting advice for living, proper conduct and wisdom.
The verses are attributed to Odin, much like the biblical Book of Wisdom is attributed to Solomon. The implicit attribution to Odin facilitated the accretion of various mythological material also dealing with Odin.[1]
Hmm... sounds familiar and about right.
ReplyDeleteThe only quibble I have is... they often mistake Odin for Wodan. Some say one is part of the other, and there is some conflict if that is so, when that happened, even how, so when to quote whom can be messy. Memory and... stories... do get muddled in time.
I have spoken to men who I know know nothing of these things. I do not bother their weary heads. Frightened herds of men, as with animals, are dangerous and foolish. But make no mistake, I know. It's not a single interpretation, either. Sons are often spears. Strife is often as much on field as it is in home. And there is more. Things lost on moderns who can have food made for them, or they can move 3,000 miles, or they can live together separately, or... much else. How long will modern miracles that allow such polity and social elegance of gentility last?
Bet on old school. Hope for the easy life, just don't count on it.