I’ve been working on my own translation of the Old Icelandic rune poems for a month or so now and am going to be reading it alongside the original language later this month. I was supposed to do it last month, but got sick. Now I’m scheduled for February 25th. In spite of my Old Norse accent being somewhat weak, I’m really excited. Each poet gets 15 minutes to read, so I’ll get a chance to discuss a bit, too.
The rune poems are three poems written in Old Icelandic, Old Norwegian, and Old English that describe through riddles and metaphor the meanings of the runes in the Younger Futhark. Through thoroughly reading and comparing the three poems, we’re able to interpret the meanings of the Elder Futhark for use in runic practice. I’ve finished a translation of the Old Icelandic (Norse) version, and now I’m working on the Old Norwegian. They’re actually really similar to each other, the Norwegian being a different dialect with the same declensions as Old Norse.
I’m contemplating whether I want to publish the translations here or through our soon-to-be-born imprint, Midwinter Fire Press. Either way, I’ll be posting here once the decision is made.
