December 21, 2022 — — With each passing year, we have been weaving a tapestry of sound that encapsulates the spirit of the winter solstice.
As the third and final release in a trio of yearly December singles, as an homage to the magical number, three, in Norse mythology, our winter solstice escapades conclude with “Hróðvitnir: Solstice Solasvartr”.
Listen now https://draugablikk.ffm.to/hrodvitnir
♫ Hróðvitnir Hróðvitnir svartumann
We will hunt for truth
For the ancient one
Oh Hróðvitnir Hróðvitnir svartumann
We will hunt you out
We will cut you down ♫
In Norse mythology, Fenris is a giant wolf and one of the children of Loki. Fenris is also known by several other names, with Hróðvitnir and Vánagandr being the most common.
“In Norse poetry, an alternative name is called a “heiting” and is used to replace a taboo word, generally out of fear or respect that speaking the true name will summon the creature or deity.”
Hróðvitnir means “fierce and ravenous” and is often used to describe the wolf’s destructive and predatory nature. According to legend, Fenris (Hróðvitnir) is bound by the gods but is destined to break free and eat the sun during Ragnarök, the end of the world.
In Norse poetry, an alternative name is called a “heiting” and is used to replace a taboo word, generally out of fear or respect that speaking the true name will summon the creature or deity.
The connection between Hróðvitnir and the winter solstice can be seen in how the wolf represents darkness as the solstice marks the longest night of the year.
The winter solstice also marks the Yuletide celebrations and the start of the sun’s return and gradual lengthening of the days, similar to Hróðvitnir, to Fenris eventually being defeated, letting the sun continue its journey.
Follow the old ways — join the Fornleið.
Follow the old ways — join the Fornleið.