Havamal

Falkenbach's song 'Havamal' draws heavily from Norse mythology and ancient wisdom, encapsulating the essence of the Hávamál, a collection of Old Norse poems attributed to the god Odin. The lyrics are imbued with themes of knowledge, power, and protection, reflecting the ancient belief in the potency of words and chants. The song opens with a reference to a secret knowledge, 'unknown to rulers, or any human mind,' which can provide help in times of despair. This sets the tone for the mystical and esoteric nature of the wisdom being shared.

The lyrics continue to describe various forms of knowledge and spells that can be used in different situations, such as blunting the edges of swords in battle or calming the seas to protect a ship. These references highlight the Norse belief in the power of spoken words and chants to influence the physical world. The repeated phrase 'The wise one has spoken the words in the hall, joy to him who understood' emphasizes the value placed on understanding and internalizing this ancient wisdom.

The song also touches on the importance of growth and learning, as seen in the lines 'I grew and I throve well; word from word gave words to me, deed from deed gave deeds to me.' This reflects the Norse cultural emphasis on personal development through experience and knowledge. The final verses reiterate the significance of these teachings, hailing both the speaker and the listener who comprehends the wisdom. Falkenbach's 'Havamal' is a powerful homage to the ancient Norse tradition, celebrating the enduring relevance of its mystical and philosophical insights.