Gibu

Wardruna's song 'Gibu' delves deep into the ancient wisdom of friendship, trust, and human relationships, drawing from Old Norse traditions and the Hávamál, a collection of Old Norse poems from the Viking age. The lyrics, sung in Old Norse, emphasize the importance of being a true friend to those who are trustworthy and the complexities of dealing with those who are not. The song's title, 'Gibu,' which means 'give,' underscores the theme of reciprocity and the exchange of gifts and trust in relationships.

The first stanza sets the tone by advising that one should be a friend to their friends and not to the friends of their enemies. This highlights the importance of loyalty and the careful selection of one's social circle. The subsequent verses provide guidance on how to interact with friends and those who may not be trustworthy. The advice to blend minds and exchange gifts with trusted friends suggests a deep bond and mutual respect, while the counsel to speak pleasantly but think deceitfully with those who are not trusted reflects a pragmatic approach to self-preservation.

The final stanza offers a personal reflection, where the speaker recalls their youth and the loneliness of traveling alone. The realization that finding another person brought joy and a sense of wealth underscores the intrinsic value of human connection. This sentiment resonates with the overarching theme of the song, which is the significance of genuine relationships and the wisdom in navigating them. Wardruna's use of traditional instruments and ancient language not only pays homage to their cultural heritage but also brings timeless human experiences to the forefront, making 'Gibu' a profound exploration of friendship and trust.