Three Axes -

I have three axes

The first is called Hewer

His edge is keen and his cheeks are flat

Sharp and fast like an old shrew’s tongue

Brings down the sapling and the fat tree

With Hewer I built my house

I built my house

I have three axes

The second called Splitter

His edge is dull and his cheeks are full

Round and eager like a village matron

Splits frozen logs to well-trimmed cords

With Splitter I warm my hearth

I warm my hearth

I have three axes

The third is called Biter

His edge is broad and sharp as I can keep it

Death-wolf of the field with iron-banded throat

Cleaves arm from shoulder, head from neck

With Biter I defend my kin

I defend my kin

Invaders come here

To challenge my steading

They flout their spears and swords bright-bladed

«Turn your backs!»

I say, bold at my border

Brandishing axes as though berserk

And leaving fields blessed with their blood

Fields blessed with their blood

I have three axes

For kin and home hearth

With Hewer I hoisted high hall beams

Splitter eases spark’s survival

Howl of Hel’s hound is my Biter

And all held strong in my hand

Held strong in my hand