Grieving Baldr
Einar Selvik Lyrics

These lyrics are in Old Norse and are a part of Einar Selvik's song "Grieving Baldr." The song is inspired by the mythological story of Baldr, the Norse god of light and joy, who is tragically killed by his brother Höðr. The lyrics express a sense of sorrow and mourning for Baldr's death, as well as a resolution to embrace it and await the arrival of the afterlife.

The first verse conveys the heaviness and difficulty of moving the tongue to speak about the profound loss. It mentions the poets who are skilled in composing lyrical verse but cannot find the appropriate words in this moment, as the grief is too overwhelming. The reference to Viður, another name for Odin, suggests that even the wisest of the gods cannot fully understand or articulate the magnitude of this tragedy.

The second verse describes the sorrowful burden carried by a certain man who bears the weight of his friend's sorrow, perhaps indicating the role of an advisor or a close confidant. The imagery of "kǫgla," which can be interpreted as a bundle of sticks or kindling, suggests that this burden is not only emotional but also symbolic of the funeral pyre for Baldr.

The chorus expresses that the mourners will shed dry tears for Baldr's funeral, implying that the tears do not possess true sadness but are rather a ceremonial tribute to the fallen god. The reference to Hel, the realm of the dead in Norse mythology, alludes to the belief in an afterlife where Baldr now resides.

In the final verse, the singer declares that despite the heavy burden of grief, they will remain cheerful with a good will and await the arrival of Hel (death) without any anxiety or worry. This verse embodies a stoic acceptance of fate and a willingness to move forward without fear.