Rauða spjör
Einar Selvik Lyrics

In the song "Rauða spjör" by Einar Selvik, the lyrics paint a vivid picture of a fierce battle scene filled with imagery of war and conflict. The first stanza describes a red-helmeted warrior in battle, where ravens gathered, arrows flew through the air seeking targets, and bloody spears were thrown on the ground. The mention of the Skota (Scot) as a war challenger, the son of the generous goddess of the sorrows of war, adds a layer of mythological and historical context to the narrative, possibly referencing ancient battles or conquests.

The second stanza continues the intense imagery of the battlefield, with the clang of swords and the rattle of armor as cranes of the helmet battle and bloodthirsty spears tear through flesh and bones. There is a sense of brutal violence depicted as the wolf, a symbol of ferocity and strength, enjoys the chaos and carnage brought about by the conflict. The reference to the hrafni (raven) on the prow of a ship suggests a connection to the Viking Age and seafaring expeditions, tied to themes of war and conquest.

The third stanza delves deeper into the conflict, with mentions of legendary Norse gods such as Freyr and Haki, and their weapons being used in battle. The crashing sounds of swords and shields colliding create a chaotic and intense atmosphere, as arrows are unleashed from bows, and the sharp edges of spears and points pierce through the air. The imagery of battle weapons being wielded and used in combat evokes a sense of power and aggression, highlighting the brutal nature of warfare.

The final stanza concludes the narrative of the battle, as peace is found only after the frenzy of combat, with the wolf being mentioned again, possibly as a symbol of victory or survival in the aftermath of the conflict. The scene shifts to a more serene setting, with people coming together in the aftermath of battle, perhaps to mourn the fallen or celebrate the victors. The mention of the gall (rooster) crowing at the dawn of a new day symbolizes a sense of renewal and the cyclical nature of war and conflict in Norse mythology. Overall, the lyrics of "Rauða spjör" evoke a powerful and intense portrayal of a battle scene, rich in Norse imagery and mythological references.