Jokul's Blood
Why do our brothers hurt so much
What monster grows our loss
Is there a chance, oh quiet son
The horse-shoe you might toss
Thorstein, seek a braver will
Embrace a Kettil’s strength
Forge a steely mettle
Find destiny at length
Kinship is acknowledged
Unsheathed, a sharpened-sword
A journey into darkness
To find the promised hoarde
The thief, a sturdy giant
A creature stout and strong
Jokul, named and noble-born
In death will write our song
Wedded by the thrust of sword
Action’s dubious chance
A lineage of heroes
Is born in violent dance
A sacred, magic presience
Pierced by the unknown
Last breath, a gift of mercy
From pragmatism grown
Jokul, save the family
Salvage your good name
Fate’s sudden, glad disturbance
Has nullified your shame
The people of the Vatnsdal
Recognize your place
With Ingimund and Thorkel
Blessed by fortune’s grace
Wisdom marries courage
Oh, hearty race of men
Do not forget the sacrifice
We are what happened then
***
Theo van Joolen©2011
***
Inspired by reading The Saga of the People of Vatnsdal [13th c.]
