My Mother Told Me

Filmbard's song "My Mother Told Me" is a stirring tribute to the Viking spirit, encapsulating themes of bravery, honor, and destiny. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a young Viking, inspired by the wisdom and stories of his parents. His mother speaks of a fearless man with a heart of steel, whose blue eyes reflect the ocean's vastness and pride. This man, a symbol of ultimate bravery and honor, becomes a figure to aspire to, someone worth fighting and dying alongside. The imagery of the ocean and the steel heart evokes the harsh yet majestic life of a Viking warrior, where the sea is both a path to glory and a formidable adversary.

The father’s words add a layer of myth and destiny, identifying the fearless man as the son of Odin, the Norse god associated with war, wisdom, and death. This connection to Odin not only elevates the man's status but also ties the young Viking's journey to a divine purpose. The father's directive to follow this man to build a new home underscores the themes of exploration and conquest, central to the Viking ethos. The idea of building a new home suggests a quest for legacy and continuity, a common thread in Viking lore.

The recurring chorus, where the mother envisions her son buying a galley and sailing to distant shores, reinforces the theme of adventure and the pursuit of honor. The noble barque and the steady course to the haven symbolize a determined and unwavering journey, despite the inevitable battles and foes. The song concludes with a poignant reflection on the end of life, where the fearless leader will guide the warrior to feast with the gods, healing their wounds. This ending ties back to the Viking belief in Valhalla, a majestic hall where warriors are honored in the afterlife, thus completing the cycle of life, death, and eternal glory.