hráefnismál

Hraefnismal, meaning "Raven Song" or "Lay of the Raven," is a fragment of Old Norse poetry. It is believed to be part of a larger heroic lay, but only a small portion survives, preserved within the context of the sagas. The surviving text describes a raven, a common motif in Norse mythology associated with Odin, foretelling future events and battles. It is characterized by its stark imagery and prophetic tone. The raven's pronouncements often hint at bloodshed, the fate of warriors, and the cyclical nature of conflict. Scholars generally place Hraefnismal within the tradition of Old Norse heroic poetry, which often dealt with themes of valor, loyalty, and the tragic inevitability of death. Its exact dating is uncertain, but it is typically considered to be from the Viking Age or slightly earlier. The fragment offers a glimpse into the poetic language and mythological worldview of the period, emphasizing the importance of omens and the supernatural in understanding human destiny. While its complete form is lost, Hraefnismal remains a notable example of early Scandinavian verse.