Icelandic Lullaby
Sissel Lyrics


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(Traditional / Bjerkestrand / Graham)

Sleep you now, oh child of mine
Sleep you in your manger
Sleep while winter winds will whine
Sleep you safe from danger

Sleep you when the dark ice groans
Frost and fire nearing
Sleep you when the silence moans
Sleep you with no fearing

Sleep you well and sleep you long
For life will leave you weary
Sleep you still and sleep you strong
'Til you no longer hear me





You no longer hear me

Overall Meaning

The Icelandic Lullaby by Sissel is a traditional song that is comforting to the soul. The song speaks to a child, asking them to sleep safely and soundly as they rest in their manger. The song talks specifically about sleeping through harsh winter winds and the groaning of dark ice. It advises the child to rest and not be afraid, as the silence may moan, as it's all part of the natural cycle of life. It tells the child to sleep well and for a long time, as life will make them weary.


The song's last verse encourages the child to sleep still and strong until they no longer hear the voice of the singer. This part of the song can be interpreted in two ways. Firstly, it may be viewed as a literal whisper from a parent to a sleeping child, which would mean the parent is leaving the child in a peaceful and comfortable environment. Secondly, it can be interpreted as a metaphorical goodbye from the living to the dead.


The above lyrics offer an emotional and caring lullaby to a child that it can sleep soundly and peacefully, regardless of the harshness of winter. It encourages them to overcome their fears and anxieties and to experience a peaceful rest.


Line by Line Meaning

Sleep you now, oh child of mine
Rest now, my beloved child


Sleep you in your manger
Sleep in your cozy and warm place


Sleep while winter winds will whine
Slumber while cold winds blow outside


Sleep you safe from danger
Sleep soundly without any worries


Sleep you when the dark ice groans
Rest even when everything seems to be falling apart


Frost and fire nearing
Despite the approaching danger of frost or fire


Sleep you when the silence moans
Sleep through the quiet and creaking sounds of the night


Sleep you with no fearing
Rest peacefully without any fear


Sleep you well and sleep you long
Sleep soundly and sleep for as long as you need


For life will leave you weary
For life will tire you out


Sleep you still and sleep you strong
Slumber peacefully and stay strong


'Til you no longer hear me
Until you are in deep sleep and unaware of my voice




Contributed by Samuel N. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
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Brian


on Going Home

Where you have “yes” several times she’s really singing “just”. It’s her accent that makes it sound like “yes”.

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