vísan

Vísan is a term in Icelandic and related Nordic languages that refers to a short lyric poem or song, traditionally part of folk and literary culture. In modern Icelandic, vísa denotes a single verse or compact poem, and the plural form vísur is used for multi-verse pieces. The word is used both for standalone pieces and for individual stanzas within longer works.

Historically, vísur are linked to oral tradition and medieval skaldic and Eddic poetry. They may be quoted within sagas or sung as short tunes. The form is valued for its conciseness, imagery, and capacity to convey a mood, observation, or memory in few lines.

Form and style vary. Vísur are often compact and discursive, sometimes featuring a refrain or regular metre. They are commonly rhymed and may be sung with accompaniment, though many exist primarily as written poetry. The content ranges from praise and lament to nature, love, and humor.

Cultural significance: Vísur remain a recognized feature of Icelandic literature and folk culture. They are taught in schools, printed in anthologies, and continue to be composed by contemporary poets and songwriters. In scholarship, vísan is used to study oral tradition, versification, and the transition from oral to written culture.

Notable examples include medieval verses cited in sagas and Eddic poetry; Egill Skallagrímsson's verses (vísa) are among the best known in Icelandic tradition for their technical skill and personal voice.