Skuggsjá translates into ‘mirror’ or ‘reflection’ in the Norse language, and the piece not only contextualizes harder music’s role in the democracy in Norway in 2014, but also joins threads from the country’s ancient musical history and solidifies harder music’s position as Norway's most important cultural export.
By highlighting ideas, traditions and instruments of their Norse past, Skuggsjá tells the history of Norway and reflect relevant aspects from the past into the present day. In light of this we reflect on ourselves as a people and nation. In a magnificent tapestry of metal instrumentation, a wide variety of Norway´s and Scandinavia’s oldest instruments, and poetry in Norse and Norwegian, Skuggsjá is a fusion between past and present, both lyrically and musically.
Oska
Ivar Bjørnson & Einar Selvik Lyrics
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Med ild med skip
Or verda or oska
Med ild med skip
Or verda or oska
Med ild med skip
Or verda or oska
Med ild med skip
Or verda or oska
Med ild med skip
Or verda or oska
Med ild med skip
The repeated phrase "Or verda or oska med ild med skip" in Ivar Bjørnson and Einar Selvik's song "Oska" has been interpreted as evoking a sense of determination and bravery. "Or verda" can be translated to "whether the world" or "regardless of the world," while "oska" means "desire" or "longing." When combined with the imagery of fire and ships, which have long been associated with exploration and adventure, the lyrics suggest a commitment to pursuing one's goals and desires, even in the face of obstacles.
The use of Old Norse language in the lyrics of "Oska" is fitting given the song's subject matter. Both Bjørnson and Selvik are members of Norwegian metal band Enslaved and have a deep appreciation for their country's cultural heritage, including its Viking history. In interviews, they have discussed how their collaboration on the song came about as they were researching ancient sources and texts for a museum exhibit they were curating together. The lyrics of "Oska" draw from Old Norse poetry, including the concept of "hamingja," or personal luck or destiny.
Line by Line Meaning
Or verda or oska
Whether the world exists or not
Med ild med skip
With fire and with ships
Or verda or oska
Whether the world exists or not
Med ild med skip
With fire and with ships
Or verda or oska
Whether the world exists or not
Med ild med skip
With fire and with ships
Or verda or oska
Whether the world exists or not
Med ild med skip
With fire and with ships
Or verda or oska
Whether the world exists or not
Med ild med skip
With fire and with ships
Lyrics © BMG Rights Management
Written by: Einar Selvik, Ivar Peersen
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind