Outward Freyja's heart shines love so bright,
It entrances the eyes, enhances the sight.
Freyja's heart beats so softly, and so warm,
It is almost as beautiful, as her perfect form.

Her eyes are like pools, I get lost in their depth,
It is hard to believe that they could ever have wept.
Like a pond they shimmer, they reveal who You are,
In the darkness they sparkle, and guide like a star.

Your lips are moist, and shaped like a heart,
They are sensual too, as they slowly pull apart.
The words that you speak sound a fine tune,
When you are finished, I feel it's too soon.

I sense when You are smiling down on me from up above,
Feel Your warmth, and Your comfort, most of all Your love.
You have healed my angry heart, saved me from strife,
As You slowly brought back love into my heart broken life.  

Freyja's heart is her magic, a great wand of delight,
She takes away all our pain, and makes love feel right.
I have tried to give Freyja a gift, feel a strong need to repay,
But She never accepts them, just smiles then walks away.

- Glenn Bergen, Copyright, 2012. 

He lived a life of marching, battle, and war,
Landed his ships on many an enemy' s shore.
He sailed where other men would seldom dare,
In places where it was said lay Jormungand's lair.

The warrior fought well, bested all kinds of beasts,
Had his share of women, held many fine feasts.
His men hailed his name, his praise skalds would sing,
So respected in fact, he was crowned as their king.

For many years he fought recklessly and bold,
But decades of war left him scarred and old.
He ruled with wisdom until his strength abated,
Defiantly he sat on his throne as his life faded.

His heroic deeds were not buried in his mound,
They echo through history with a thunderous sound.
To this day your folk stand round your honored grave,
And Raise their horns in praise, to a king so brave !

- Glenn Bergen, Copyright, 2012.

When Gudrod, Halvdan's father, stepped off his ship onto land,
He was run through by a young lad, with a spear in his hand.
King Gudrod was killed by Halvdan's mother, for she wanted revenge,
King Gudrod killed Queen Asa' s father, now his death was avenged.

King Gudrod died as Halvdan's life had just begun,
Halvdan was not alone, King Gudrod had another son.
Olav, your half - brother, ruled Gudrod's kingdom with care,
When Halvdan became a man, these lands he would share.

Your hair was dark as coal, hence your name " The Black ".
You were built strong and intelligent, little did you lack .
When your half - brother died, you took over his lands,
You ruled them justly, showed your folk a gentle hand.

When others attacked you, with rage you were filled,
Many warriors would die, much blood would be spilled.
You lost  some of your battles, but never the war,
Your kingdom expanded, much larger than before.    

You fathered with Ragnhild, an heir to your throne,
His name was Harald, he would rule Norway alone.
One day in Hadeland, you crossed ice that was not sound,
It cracked and gave way, poor King Halvdan was drowned.

In Ringerik they built for mighty King Halvdan a funeral mound,
But leaders of Raumarik, Vestfold, and Hedemark came round.
They demanded the body, said it would bring them good seasons,
They loved and respected their king, they gave as their reasons.

They thought long and hard, wondered how they would decide,
Which of the districts would return with their king who had died.
There was only one way to keep the peace that was sure,
 They drew out their knives and divided his body in four !

Glenn Bergen, Copyright, 2012.

Gullveig : Queen Of Seidr

To the Aesir a witch, an ally of the Vanir,
A master of seidr, evil in her manner.
Skilled in prophecy, the future she knew,
Provoked by the Aesir, many Gods she slew.

You played on their weaknesses, worked on their fears,
Angered, the Aesir pierced you repeatedly with spears.
Captured they brought you to Har's mighty hall,
... Odin broke his own law, turned you into a fireball.

They burned you not once, not twice, but thrice,
This was Aesir justice, this was their price.
When all that was left were your ashes on the floor,
They flashed into light and you were reborn once more.

The eyes of Gullveig burned red with rage and fire,
Her body, however, could not be destroyed in their pyre.
She laughed as she walked out of the gates of Asgard,
Gullveig's mind was still planning, her body unscarred.

In the houses you visit, Heid is your name,
Joy of evil women has become your blame.
They say you can perform your seid in a trance,
And can kill, or cure, with just a mere glance.

Though misunderstood, and hated by most,
I raise up my horn and offer you a toast.
Your magic is immense, your power is supreme,
But you are not evil as some make you seem !

-Glenn Bergen, Copyright, 2012.

He walks in fields thick with flowers,
And on narrow paths at rocky heights.
Between trees that rise like holy towers,
And block out Sunna's radiant lights.

He wades through a shallow flowing stream,
And swims across cold lakes too deep.
Travels by waterfalls as beautiful as a dream,
And under stars that shine brightly he sleeps.

He travels through lands that are still pristine,
And to places that others seldom seek to fare,
To reach a location no one has ever seen,
A place of which only the Gods are aware. 

- Glenn Bergen, Copyright, 2012.

A child is born,
As the world turns.
A flower blooms,
As the world turns.
A raven egg hatches,
As the world turns.
A child learns to walk,
As the world turns.
A bee helps pollenate,
As the world turns.
A raven chick feeds,
As the world turns.
A child grows to be a man,
As the world turns.
A flower wilts,
As the world turns.
A raven learns to fly,
As the world turns.
A man grows old,
As the world turns.
A flower's seeds drop,
As the world turns.
A raven migrates south,
As the world turns.
An old man is buried,
As the world turns.
A flower blooms at the grave,
As the world turns.
Two ravens rest on the stone,
As the world turns.
The ravens see everything,
As the world turns.

- Glenn Bergen, Copyright, 2012.

Blessed Are We !

And All - Father Odin took the form of the sky, and hovered over Great Mother Jord. Where the sky met the Earth, was born in a great holy union, a child with hair as red as fire. Odin named the child Thor, and raised Him in Asgard, as the prince that he was. As Thor grew he felt the pull of motherly love, and began to spend much of His time with His mother Jord. He came to love the people of Earth, the descendants of Lif and Lifthrasir, who were born from holy breath. And these children of Odin grew to love their Mighty God of Thunder, and great defender of Midgard. Blessed are we who live cradled in the bosom of Jord, protected by Thor, and watched over by All - Father Odin.

- Glenn Bergen, Copyright, 2012.

Freyr, I ask You, darken the clouds,
Surround me with a comforting shroud.
Thor is coming ! I can hear His thunder !
His flashes of light, fill me with wonder.

Gentle blessed droplets of Freyr's rain,
Fall on me, wash away my life's pain.
Cleanse me with Your healing powers,
Free my soul like blossoming flowers.

Kari, blow away the now spent storm,
Let Sunna shine, Her love is so warm.
The heat builds in me, released in sweat,
Within it evaporates my years of regret.

When Sunna retreats and Mani appears,
It's great luminescence takes away my fears.
As I lay in the dark and gaze at the sky,
I am content with myself and fear not to die.

- Glenn Bergen, Copyright, 2012.

In dragon ships of sail they landed on England's shore,
Mighty Danish Viking warriors battle ready for war.
Town by town King Sweyn forced the English to submit,
In defeat Hostages were given from each Squire it is writ.

King Aethelred and Thorkell, who was known as the Tall,
Stood firm against the Danes behind London's high wall.
Sweyn shifted west, and conquered the western thane,
It was then that the Londoners resolve began to wane.

They couldn't defeat him in battle, or match him in skill,
So all of the Britains submitted to great King Sweyn's will,
In 1013, on Christmas Day, Sweyn was crowned England's king,
By Sweyn's side, stood Cnut his son, wearing a princes ring.

King Sweyn Forkbeard did not rule over England for long,
Within just 5 weeks he succumbed to death's cruel song.
Harald II was next in line to succeed his father when he was dead,
The Viking army in England, however,chose Prince Cnut instead.

- Glenn Bergen, Copyright, 2012.

Your wonderful image is engraved in my mind,
I have read every word you wrote I could find.
I respect every single thing that you've done,
I praise every battle you fought and then won.

You are the mentor that I never met,
The man who I owe such a huge debt.
I hope you can see me from up above,
Feel my respect, my honor, my love !

- Glenn Bergen, Copyright 2012

A silent promise of life lies dormant in the earth,
The seed awaits warm rains to awaken into birth.
Pushing through solid ground it searches for a way,
Struggling to the surface, it catches its first warm ray.

Unfolding out in sunlight the tiny plant then breathes,
Its stem splits in two, and grows itself some leaves.
Morning Glory reaches out as though to reach the sun,
Resting at night to recover from a battle hard - won.

With each new day it grows in might and strength,
And every new leaf it creates gives it greater length.
When it is fully grown and has gained a mighty power,
Morning Glory crowns its tip with a beautiful little flower.

- Glenn Bergen, Copyright, 2012.

Burning flame of flickering fire,
Eternal guardian of the witches mound.
Cracklng, sparking, gleaming red pyre,
Fear is inspired just by its sound.

Putrid water has seeped into your grave,
Caused your corpse to rot and to mold.
In death as in life, the elements you brave,
Your eternal sleep has not quelled the cold.

The Earth that covers you is compacted and raw,
Slowly crushing your body, and tormenting you with pain.
It has pushed through the coffin and entered your jaw,
Adding greatly to your misery it has started to rain.

The winds now howling, are calling your name,
The story they are telling is a horrible tale.
Your death was a tragedy, your life was a shame,
Your terrified screams can be heard in its gale.

- Glenn Bergen, Copyright, 2012.

Confusion,
Despair,
Loneliness,
Pain,
Fear,
Panic,
Sorrow,
Tears,
Anger,
Hatred,
Outraged,
Ignored,
Castigated,
Conflicted,
Harassed,
Defiant,
Determination,
Independent,
Conviction,
Strength,
Pride,
Faith,
Wisdom,
Knowledge,
Honor,
Love,
Devotion,
Oath,
Happiness,
Oneness !

Glenn Bergen, Copyright, 2012.

I walk on a long path that is many centuries worn,
Surrounded by brush, thicket, and sharp thorn.
I pass over mighty mountains, and flowers so frail,
On sunny days, and through windy storms that wail.

I am pulled to this place by an invisible umbilical cord,
Not of my birth, but one magically connected with Mother Jord.
I am guided to a grove, where once there grew a mighty oak,
One that was for years visited by many of our ancestral folk.

At Journey's end I reach where once stood Donar's oak tree.
Sadly There is no longer anything left there for our folk to see,
Though the Saint long ago destroyed the sacred oak and let it rot,
We will forever come, and leave offerings on this most holy spot.

- Glenn Bergen, Copyright, 2012.    

I kneel before Your altar not knowing quite what to say,
Into the purification bowl the gift I brought I lay.
I reach out to You with open heart, and with my open mind,
I do not have far to search, for you are always close to find.

I honor You the best I can, pledge you my heart and soul,
Then open up my skin, and give a blood offering in the bowl.
Great Mother of birth, children and life, I wish from you to learn,
I offer to You all I am, and ask for nothing in return.

- Glenn Bergen, Copyright, 2012.

Though I never knew you, I stand before your memorial in solemn honor.
I gaze upon the stone and search out your name in silent anticipation.
Finding your distinguished name, my chest swells with pride and respect.
204 years after your passing your name is still remembered by your folk.
Your deeds, courage, and bravery carved in marble stone for all to see.
Odin was right ! A man's reputation, onced earned, never dies !

- Glenn Bergen, Copyright, 2012.

** John B. Bergen fought in the Jersey Blues, Middlesex County Militia, during the American Revolutionary War, and was wounded at the Battle of Princeton. He is my grandfather's , grandfather's, grandfather. He died in 1808. The memorial marker is on Main Street in Cranbury, New Jersey. Fittingly he is buried less than 50 yards away.

Spring has a new song, can you hear its tune ?
It is carried on the winds, a blowing harmony.
It is written in the blue sky, like a mighty rune.
Sung by returning birds, as a great symphony.

Sunna dances across the sky in perfect unison.
The cicada's use their *tymbals* to add a little chime.
Mani does a slow waltz when day's time is done,
While crickets play a slow rhythm keeping with the time.

If you listen very closely you will hear the new Spring Song.
It will fill your soul with gladness, a cadence of delight,
This magic  tune will affect you, all through the season long,
And change your balanced heart beat, to its rhythmic rite.

- Glenn Bergen, Copyright 2012. 
  
** Tymbals are located on the base of the cicada and makes that characteristic sound that we hear on warm spring days.
 
 

Black raven sail stretched out on a new horizon,
Outlined in blood red against the rising sun,
Flying proudly in the wind ,crossing mighty seas,
Billowing forth with every newly formed breeze.

Waves slap gently against the planks on either side,
The dragon head leading, acts as their guide.
Dolphins ride the ship's bow, always at play,
As the sun rises to usher in another new day.

Hour after grueling hour, standing stoically in the rear,
A strong Viking stands with rudder in hand to steer.
If the winds calm, sixty mighty warriors are ready with oar,
Battle hardened Viking soldiers, who live for a life of war.

For now they enjoy the peacefulness of the great sea,
And spend their time letting their thoughts roam free.
Gently rocking back and forth, in a mesmerizing motion,
As they slowly sail across the great expanse of the ocean.

Glenn Bergen, Copyright, 2012.     
 

,eb tonnac tsuj tahw ta, rorroh ni dnuora kool I
,ees I tahw staht tsael ta, tnereffid kool sdrow eht lla
,thgir etiuq leef ot smees gnihton, kcis ma I hguoht sa leef I
.thgis ym htiw gnihtemos tsuj ro ,enog si dnim ym eb ti dluoc

-negreB nnelG

Backwards Poem

I look around in horror, at what just cannot be,
All the words look different, at least that's what I see.
I feel as though I am sick, nothing seems to feel quite right,
Could it be my mind is gone, or just something with my sight.

- Glenn Bergen, Copyright, 2012.

Youth is the God's holy rich reward,
Held in a sacred basket where it is kept safely stored.
The keeper of youth is known as Idunn by name,
Her mission of youth has gained her much fame.

She rides in a cart pulled by a white horse,
And stops at evey hall as a matter of course.
The Gods watch over her, protect her at all cost,
If the Gods lose the Golden Apples all would be lost !

- Glenn Bergen, Copyright, 2012.

I am ancient.
I am the protector.
I am Donar !

I am a son.
I am a father.
I am Odinsson !

I am Earth's shield.
I am man's guardian.
I am Veur !

I am the loud one.
I am the thunder.
I am Hlorridi !

I am the cart God
I am the lone rider.
I am Eindridi !

I am anger.
I am war cries .
I am Rymr !

I am fury.
I am the storm.
I am Thor !

- Glenn Bergen, Copyright, 2012.

I fought hard with my sword, and later my axe,
When it seemed all was lost, I used a sharp seax.
Though broken and in pieces, I held up my shield,
Surrounded by my enemy , I still would not yield.

I was slashed and stabbed, then fell to the ground,
I could see not the light, could hear not a sound.
In the morning I awoke, I was hanging from a tree,
... I had died in the night, yet my soul was not free.

Below in the road stood an old man in a hood
He walked with a stick, with runes carved in the wood.
He spoke magical words, and chanted a spell,
From up in the tree, the bonds broke and I fell.

He asked me to journey with them to his humble abode,
It was then I noticed he was leading warriors on the road,
Come quickly now my son, we have miles yet to go,
Valhalla is two days travel, by way of the crow.

- Glenn Bergen, Copyright, 2012

I have no story left to tell,
No poem within me now to write,
Feel so empty, just a shell,
I Fear I've lost my skaldic might.

I write a verse upon the page,
But the lyric makes no sense to me,
I sit in silence with my rage,
And long for words to set me free.

- Glenn Bergen, Copyright, 2012.

Wild were the Viking's eyes,
Anger fueled his fading strength,
Ragnar felt his beating heart,
Racing from his sheer exhaustion.
Incensed he fought even harder,
Onward to his ultimate victory,
Revenge his ever guiding force.

- Glenn Bergen, Copyright, 2012.

On this spot I have carved here in stone,
A monument to Egil, my warrior friend.
Killed by a sword through the breastbone,
That sharp blade put his life at an end.

We fought together in many a great battle,
Littered the fields with many of their men.
Escaped together once in the same saddle,
And drank horns of mead over and over again.

Now I raise this stone over your grave mound,
And carve deep runes to be read by your kin.
May this marker act as your earthly crown,
As you feast in Valhalla with All - Father Odin.

- Glenn Bergen, Copyright, 2012.

Honor yourself by honoring others,
Treat strangers like they were brothers,
Show love to people who are destitute,
Give your voice to those who are mute.

Share your time with those who haven't any,
Lend to the poor your very last penny,
Show someone the way who is lost,
Help them out no matter the cost.

Hold out your hand to the person who is afraid,
Give your all to those who are in need of aid,
Help everyone as if you will receive an award,
But look for nothing in return as a reward !

- Glenn Bergen, Copyright, 2012.

Gudmond searched the horizon from the shore,
Egil, his father, had sailed nine months before,
For lands far, far away, to wage war.
To return to him, his father had swore.

His mother, Asgerd, watched from up on the hill,
Her heart was breaking, her thoughts were still.
Tears filled her eyes, she leaned on the sill,
And thought of Odin's sacrifice on Yggdrasil.

Would her husband lose his life in a distant land ?
Or like Great Warrior God Tyr lose just a hand ?
Would his triumphant return be very grand ?
Or would his body never return to Gotland ?

Then from down on the beach she heard a wail.
Mother ! Mother ! I see father's square sail !
On the deck, still dressed in coat of mail,
Stood Egil, who smiling, waved from the rail !

- Glenn Bergen, Copyright, 2012.

Great burning yellow disk,
One - eyed holy obelisk.
Radiant altar ever - glowing,
God - set path never slowing.

Lighted furnace, unshielded flame,
Sol, or Sunna, I call Your name.
Warm my soul, light the earth,
Heat our lands, spark re - birth !

Glenn Bergen, Copyright, 2012.

I was away on a raid,
Knew nothing of your fate.
In gold coins I was paid,
Arrived home much too late.

Now I mourn at your grave,
My beautiful wife.
The child you gave,
Ended your life.

I hold here in my arms, our little boy
Whose blue eyes remind me of you.
I'll raise him well, give him much joy,
And tell him of the mother that he never knew. 

Glenn Bergen, Copyright, 2012.

Through the mist of confusion,
I see Your wisdom clearly.
Within a cacophony of noise,
I hear discernibly Your booming voice.

In a world filled with distraction,
You are the point that I focus on.
In a life tainted by pain and sorrow,
You offer a stoic sense of pride and joy.

In a neverending ocean of people,
You allow me to rise like an island from the sea.
You give me strength to walk an unknown path,
Whose destination is known only to You.

Though I fear Your expressionless stare,
And stand humbled by Your regal presence,
I am honored that You have touched me,
Despite my inability to truly understand You. 

- Glenn Bergen, Copyright, 2012. 

The days at sea were long,
The wind it did not blow.
His men proved themselves strong,
Long and hard they had to row.

Then a storm blew up from out of the south,
Brave men held fast as they were battered.
The wave's resembled a serpents mouth,
Their beautiful sail was torn and tattered.

The seas they calmed, the winds did die,
The men baled water out by hand.
One of them froze, something caught his eye,
With an excited shout, he cried out, "Land" !

Exhausted they rowed into the bay,
Beached their ship, sat out on the sand.
Some fell asleep there where they lay,
Glad finally to be back in their land.

A tall rider galloped up, he rode a swift horse.
He stopped and dismounted, disbelief filled his eyes.
Was this all that was left of the warriors force?
30 ships there had left, and their Chieftain so wise.

The scout greeted the men, listened to their tale,
The Chieftain told of battles won, and Danegeld paid in gold.
Dejected he continued, in war we did not fail,
We were defeated not by men, but wind, and waves, and cold.

On land we fought so well, no army stood in our way,
We were destroyed by an ocean whipped into foam.
Most of my men are gone now, what more can I say,
We thank the Mighty Gods, they allowed us to come home.

- Glenn Bergen, Copyright, 2012.
 

The light has lengthened, the day now becomes longer,
Sunna shines from above, radiating heat much stronger.
The Earth has softened from Sunna's mighty power,
Deep in the soil seeds split, soon to flower.

The birds have returned from their long winter rest,
With incredible precision they find last year's nest.
In a ritual that is ancient, they court and they mate,
With each taking a turn on their eggs as they wait.

Creatures in burrows, dug deep in the ground,
Hidden from predators, in slumber not found.
They emerge from their dens searching for food,
and look for a partner to start a new brood.

Yes, spring has arrived in all of its beauty,
A wonderful season, Earth's annual duty.
It's a time of beginnings, of renewal, and birth,
Life's magnificent re - awakening, on Great Mother Earth !

- Glenn Bergen, Copyright, 2012.

Great Gna, our beautiful errand Goddess,
Your messages held tight there in your bodice.
You ride on a horse that takes to flight,
Carrying urgent tidings, Frigga does write.

Once a Vanir who saw her up in the air,
Asked in verse, " What is flying over there ? "
Gna answered, " I travel and move through the sky,
But you are mistaken, I do not fly. " 

Hamskerpir and Gardofa sired this foal,
To run over the sea and air is it's role.
It's name is Hofvarpnir, a horse of delight,
It means Hoof - Thrower, it's name is just right.

Gna is listed fourteenth and last on Snorri's list.
This ranking of Goddesses shouldn't exist !
You are not a " Minor Goddess ", no not at all,
But a wonderful Goddess who's image stands tall !

- Glenn Bergen, Copyright, 2012.   

I had a voice but was silent,
A mere shadow in a world of light.
I existed but had no meaning,
I lived without having a life.

Then the Gods took a hold of me,
Wrung out from me my self pity,
Placed my feet on a new path,
Gave conviction to my words.

They gave me strength to displace my weakness,
Purpose for a life gone astray.
Wisdom replaced my rashness,
Love filled an empty heart.

I see beauty where I once saw ugliness,
Hope has replaced years of apathy.
I am no longer the person I once was,
I am now what the Gods have made me.

- Glenn Bergen, Copyright, 2012. 

In her eyes there is a clear vision,
Her hands are as steady as they are firm.
She is alone, but is not lonely,
Knows fear but is never afraid.

Her home is by a mountain stream,
A canopy of trees a covering roof.
Her floor is covered with vegetation,
There is no need of boundaries or walls.

Among the wolves she friends friendship,
A mother to an orphaned bear cub.
A survivalist in the harshest conditions,
She needs only her wits to survive.

She is a Goddess and a Jotun,
A master of death, and lover of life.
She is one with the natural world,
She is Skadhi the Mountain Goddess !

- Glenn Bergen, Copyright, 2012.

From up on high in Odin's seat,
I saw the one I desired to meet.
Her arms they shone as bright as the sun,
I knew at once she was for me the only one.

Instead of joy I became filled with despair,
How could it hurt so much to love one so fair ?
I could not eat, slept not at all,
I asked for no visitors here in my hall.

Father was so worried, he sent Skirnir to speak to me,
I explained to my chamberlain that my heart was not free.
My joy was imprisoned, feared death I then told,
My love was not with me, I felt so very cold.

I sent loyal Skirnir on an errand of life,
Asked him to woo her and make her my wife.
I gave him my sword that fought by itself,
To obtain my love I'd have given all my wealth.

When Skirnir returned he had Gerd's pledge to marry me,
She promised in nine nights to meet me in Barrey.
Skirnir was happy with the result of his mission,
I shook my head and made a woeful admission.

One night is long Skirnir, the pain will be great !
Longer is a second, can I survive such a wait ?
How shall I endure three, what agony will I incur ?
Shorter has a month seemed, If I am alone without her !

Glenn Bergen, Copyright, 2012 . 

  

It is written that All - Father Odin used seidr on Rind,
To implant the seed, so vengeance could begin.
In the western halls the avenging son was born,
He wailed in anger when from the womb he was torn.

Vali he was named, a half - brother of Balder,
His purpose was to kill Hodr, in this he could not falter.
Unwashed and uncombed, and just one day old,
He met and killed Hodr, so the story is told.

Vali, great warrior and marksman, so bold in a fight,
You are living proof that vengeance is honor, a right !
Neither seas nor fire can harm you at all,
In the end, a new beginning in the land of Idavoll.

Before an altar of weapons I stand with great pride,
And thank you for avenging those who have wrongfully died.
In tribute to Great Vali I raise up my horn,
To the Prince of Vengeance who was magically born.

- Glenn Bergen, Copyright, 2012.
  

I awake in the morning to Dellingr's glow
Enjoy breakfast with his bright son Dag
Finish my coffee admiring the face of Sunna
By noon been amazed a hundred times by Mother Jord.

To every destination I walk side by side with Thor
My every thought mingled with Odin's wisdom 
I smile knowing Freyja is in my heart
My concious wiped clean by Balder's goodness.

In every child's eyes I see Mother Frigga.
The laughter of lovers a reminder of Freyr and Gerd
In tears of pain I see Nanna's anguish
In the devoted I have visions of faithful Sigyn.

Nott takes my hand as darkness falls
But Mani's glow guides my way home
I sleep in comfort watched over by Heimdall
And dream of the golden halls of Gimle.

- Glenn Bergen, Copyright, 2012. 

Father, please tell me who I am,
I am confused and do not understand.
Mother, please tell me where I belong,
I feel lost and don't know where to go.

Brother, help me I do not hear your God,
I feel so alone and don't know where to turn.
Sister, help me, I hear whispering in my ears,
The words are comforting, but I am afraid.

Friend, help me, my soul is lost,
I cannot see through my darkness.
Stranger, direct me to my destination,
For I cannot decide which way to go.

Ancestors, hold out your hands to me,
So I may discover our ancient ways.
Freyja, calm the anger in my heart,
So I may understand Your love.

Odin, show me the light of Your wisdom,
So I might understand your words.  
Thor, protect me from my fears,
Give me the strength to join you !

- Glenn Bergen, Copyright, 1985.

In the Darkest of the blackest night,
A distant beacon guides my way.
Slowly I struggle towards the brilliant light,
It shines so bright, I look away,
And kneel humbly before Great Balder !

- Glenn Bergen, Copyright, 2012.

A God' s ship sat motionless out in the bay,
On a bed of gold Balder' s lifeless body lay,
Nanna died from Her grief, no longer to mourn,
Her body placed beside His on the deck of Ringhorn.

The ship was set alight, the ritual was done,
The great ship burned as it sailed towards the sun,
With tears in Her eyes Frigga waved a farewell,
As Her beautiful son Balder began his journey to Hel.

It was Hermod who promised to win Frigga' s favor,
On His excursion to Hel not once did He waver,
Only the tall gates of Hel stood in his way,
He dug in his spurs, and Sleipnir jumped them that day.

After meeting with Balder, Hermod made a deal with Hel,
If everything wept for Balder, then all would be well,
Back to Asgard Hermod rode with all due haste,
He knew he had no time left there to waste.

To all the nine worlds fast messengers were sent out,
They received pledges and oaths from everything about,
Men, beasts, stones, even metals agreed to cry,
All they spoke with were more than happy to try.

There was however a giantess, who sat in a cave,
who when asked, sent them away with a wave,
" I wll weep dry tears for the old fellows' son." she said.
And Frigga's son Balder remained in the land of the dead.

- Glenn Bergen, Copyright, 2012.   
  

Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter,
The seasons flow like a mighty river,
They deposit themselves in an ocean of years,
There to be counted for all time.
Everything changes in the nine - worlds,
It is the magical way of our universe !

- Glenn Bergen, Copyright, 2012.

Cold and heartless, they number just three,
Those maidens who live close by the ash tree,
That grows evergreen beside the holy spring.
Songs of the past, present, and future they sing. 

They show no emotions, never happy or sad,
These Norns are not good, but neither so bad.
Stoically they weave the lives for all men,
With each new birth, again and again.

They are maidens of death, but also of life,
They spin together love, misery, war and strife.
Their gossamer thread they embed in our souls,
They provide us our laws, our lives, our roles.

Urd, Skuld, and Verdandi, these are their names,
They weave out our lives, our destiny on their frames.
Forever they sit and work at their loom,
Until Ragnarok comes, that ultimate doom.

- Glenn Bergen, Copyright, 2011.  

 

The time has come,
 Dawn is fast approaching,
String the bows, sharpen the spears,
The Wild Hunt is here !

Blow quickly the horns,
Gather up the men,
Make all the ready,
The Wild Hunt is here !

Let loose the dogs,
Mount your horses,
Lead us Great Odin,
The Wild Hunt is here !

Through blood red skies,
And forest still dark,
We ride like the wind,
The Wild Hunt is here !

The dogs have the scent, 
Push the horses to their limit,
The prey has been cornered,
The Wild Hunt is here ! 

- Glenn Bergen, Copyright, 2011.

Silent and alone your eyes scan the horizon,
Your ears listening for any and all dangers.
Watchful and vigilant you must be
As you guard the bridge to heaven.
Your weapons are your senses,
The Gjallarhorn your shield.

You stand like a statue, 
The Great White God,
guarding the gate to Asgard.
Your duty is your honor.
Never resting , never ending,
You fulfill it with dignity.

Gods and Goddesses sleep well,
Knowing that you are at your post.
Their trust is your honor,
and your badge of courage.

I honor you in silence.
I raise my horn to you,
and drink a hearty toast,
to you, Great Heimdall,
Stoic guardian of Asgard ! 

- Glenn Bergen, Copyright, December, 12, 2010
  

Respected are those who fought for our religion and our ways.
Blessed are those who fell for the love of our Gods.
Rewarded are those who resisted the never ending Christian tide.
Loved are the children taken away before their time.
Missed are the generations never born.
Praised are those who kept are traditions alive.
Honored, forever, every man, woman, and child, who refused to convert.
Glorified, they now, and through eternity, reside with the Gods !

- Glenn Bergen, Copyright, December 25, 2010  

The Sun shines,
But gives no warmth.
The Wind blows,
But gives scant comfort.
The rain falls,
But nothing grows.

The branches hold promise,
But there are no shoots.
The nests are still there,
 But I hear no chirping.
The lakes full of fish,
But the surface is frozen.

My heart yearns,
But remains unfulfilled.
My eyes search,
But life is hidden. 
My soul is empty,
But there is nothing to embrace.

Winter's grip is still upon us,
Muffling all the lovely sounds of Spring.
Freyja and Freyr, hear me,
Please, I beg you, let life begin ! 

- Glenn Bergen, Copyright, February, 28, 2011

Mighty warrior, hear my beckon, my plea, my call,
Be with me here, Magni, strongest God of all !
You lifted the Giant Hrungnir, off of your father,
You were only three, yet it was not a bother. 
Ragnarok survivor, inheritor of Thor's Hammer,
Protector of worlds, evil Jotun damner.
I ask you, Magni, give me your strength, your power,
So I may grow as a person stronger by the hour.
Come to me Magni, powerful and strong,
And let your strength stay with me all the year long !

- Glenn Bergen, Copyright, March, 14, 2011 

The night sky shines with Your loving gleam,
Your light flows out like a fluid beam.
You give us hope, You give us light, 
You give us joy throughout the night.

We feel You pulling at our pride,
The way you tug at our ocean's tides.
Though You are not always in our sight,
We know that You are there, if not so bright. 

Mani, Great Mani, ever present,
Shining God of the great grey crescent.
With Sunna you dance round and round,
You cross our skies without a sound.

Sometimes, if we are lucky, and really pray, 
You come out and visit us in the day.
Shine on Great Mani, God of our night,
Forever in our hearts, seldom out of sight.

- Glenn Bergen, Copyright, June, 1993

Though we know not where it leads,
The Gods will judge us by our deeds.
For every decision we know is wrong,
The Gods will sing a woeful song.

For every living thing we knowingly hurt,
Attached we become to Hel's tattered skirt.
Cool and damp in Niflheim,
we will spend our eternal time.

For those who commit even worse,
The Gods have planned an evil curse.
Pain and agony will be your friend,
When to this place the Gods do send.

There is in Nastrond a mighty hall,
Where from the roof the poisons fall,
There eternal damnation awaits for you,
To reach it , heavy streams must be waded through.

For those who commit crimes that still are worse,
The Gods have prepared a very special curse.
Nidhogg awaits in Hvergelmir's caves,
Your flesh to rip is what it craves.

- Glenn Bergen, Copyright, April 3, 2011.



 

Your face is so fair, as bright as your charm,
Your heart is so open, your disposition so warm.
Goddess of beauty, Goddess of grace,
Born to that wonderful, magical race.

Your eyes shine like stars, that gleam in the sky,
Your laugh is so innocent, your age makes you shy.
Delicate in form, but firm in your mind,
A child of the Vanir, a joy to your kind.

Your name is Hnoss, but we call you treasure,
To bask in your presence, is truly a pleasure.
Your giggle is wonderfully charming and fun,
You are the future, the magic, the One !

- Glenn Bergen, Copyright,  April, 5 2011  

You take away the darkest of night.
You are the one I see at first light.
You, Great Dellingr, broaden my sight.
You are the God who shines so bright.

Your colors vary, I can't say why.
Red, blue, or grey you paint the sky.
Sometimes so dark the clouds they cry.
Sometimes so beautiful, they make me sigh.

Dellingr, great shining God of the morning begun.
Your battle against darkness you always have won.
Your boy, Dagr, He brings me the warmth of the Sun.
And stays with me until the daylight is done.

Dellingr, great Dellingr, please come to me.
Give me your guiding light that I might see.
With you each morning I am longing to be.
Dellingr, great Dellingr, please set me free !  

- Glenn Bergen, Copyright, April 12, 2011

 

God of Thunder,
God of might,
God of wonder,
God of right.

Great defender,
Giant's foe,
Great avenger,
Jotun's woe.

Hammer's yielder,
Weapon's director,
Midgard's shielder,
Mankind's protector.

Friend to one,
Comrade to all,
Odin's son,
Hear my call.

By my side,
In my heart,
Stride for stride,
Never apart .

On altar's ledge,
Sharp seax knife,
My blood pledge,
For Thor my life !

- Glenn Bergen, Copyright, June, 2005

  

A mountain view,
A lake that shimmers,
The ocean blue,
The stars that glimmer,
Are not as beautiful as You !

The moon at night,
The planets glow,
The sun so bright,
A rivers flow,
Are not as beautiful as You !

A bird in flight,
Sailing ships,
Land in sight,
A woman's lips,
Are not as beautiful as You !

A mountain top,
A blooming meadow,
A waterfall's drop,
A newborn doe,
Are not as beautiful as You !

A couple's love, 
A child's birth,
A flock of Doves,
The entire Earth, 
Are not as beautiful as You !

Only your reflection is as beautiful as you !

- Glenn Bergen, Copyright, 1992 

Mother Jord, Great Goddess of Earth,
Goddess of seasons, of life, and of birth.
Goddess of planting, of growing, and reaping,
Always evolving, and changing, never sleeping.   

Your air is so fresh, it makes us feel strong,
Your winds that are howling are just your wind - song.
Your storms overhead that bring us fresh waters,
Form the playground for Ran, and her daughters.

You rumble and shake all over this land,
Some say You are angry, they don't understand.
Your stirrings are merely Your cycles of life,
Not glimpses of hatred, or malice, or strife.

We seed, and we plant, we sweat, and we toil,
We work very hard to grow in your soil.
Life giving foods sprout forth from Your rains,
Our reward is Your fruits, vegetables, and grains.  

You provide us with weapons, and clothes to keep warm,
And materials to build shelters for weathering a storm.
Fire to warm us on the coldest of nights,
The dawn of Your morning is the best of all sights.

Jord, Great Goddess, and mother of Thor,
Passionately written of in our ancestors lore. 
Plant in our hearts the right things to do,
So we can be gentle, and caring, in our love for you !

- Glenn Bergen, Copyright, April, 22, 2011  

In wooden longships with both oars and sail,
Carrying weapons, and shields, they couldn't fail.
The invading army came out of the north,
Stepped out of their ships, then marched forth. 

Charles the Bald divided his force,
To fight hard warriors known as the Norse.
He placed his men on both sides of the river,
These strong Viking men made the Franks shiver.

Fierce Norse warriors stood at the ready,
Disciplined Vikings held their lines steady.
When Ragnar Lodbrok ordered the attack,
The Frankish army was quickly thrown back.

The Vikings took prisoners, a hundred or more,
They hung them right up, next to the shore.
There they swung for Charles to view,
The Christians were outraged, but what could they do ? 

With masts filled with wind, and soldiers with rage,
They showed the Parisians that this was their Age.
Ragnar and his men then sailed up the river Seine,
They looted, and pillaged, and caused so much pain.

King Charles was terrified, he wanted no more,
He even allowed them to keep their spoils of war. 
7000 pounds of silver he paid them to leave,
The Franks were left there to cry and to grieve.

The peace King Charles bought lasted not long,
Paying off the Vikings turned out to be wrong.
The lure of the Danegeld brought warriors back,
Over and over the Norsemen would attack !

- Glenn Bergen, Copyright,  April 24, 2011

 

High above heaven's rim,
Tiny buds upon its limb.
Tough bark grown in rugged layer,
Stretching forth in constant prayer.

A Mighty Ash with branches strong,
Standing stoic for so very long.
In whose branches, slightly curled,
Is held in place, our tiny world.

Great White Ash, pillar for all,
Always green, Your leaves never fall.
Strong roots You have to anchor your place,
You stand so proud, and with such grace.   

Watered daily from a cloudy well,
One root sunk deep in Niflhel.
Nidhogg gnaws at Your firm footed base,
That horrible creature is such a disgrace.

As the holder, and protector, of all that is life,
What a shame You endure so very much strife. 
I honor Your strength, Your sacrifice too,
I give You offerings as part of your due.

Yggdrasil, Great Ash of our universe,
I write for You this inadequate verse.
My words can never honor you suitably,
But I give my faith to You completely.

- Glenn Bergen, Copyright, April 24, 2011

The scent of your perfume,
The smile upon your face,
The way you rolled your eyes,
The sound of your laughter.

These are my memories of you.

The way you held my hand,
The fingers that brushed away my tears,
The love you gave unconditionally,
The forgiveness in your heart.

These are my memories of you.

The sweet smell of your cooking,
The rich taste of your brownies,
A cookie to stop my crying,
A cake for every birthday.

These are my memories of you.

The parakeet on your shoulder,
Our dog asleep in your lap,
The tropical fish you fed daily,
The mouse you ran away from.

These are my memories of you.

The way you held Dad's hand,
The kisses you exchanged,
The way you worked together,
The struggles you overcame.

These are my memories of you.

For all the love you showed me,
For all the gifts you gave me,
For all the tears you shed for me,
For all the happiness you shared with me.

I will always love and remember you !

- Glenn Bergen, Copyright, April 7, 2011

Flash of light,
Boom of thunder,
Awesome sight,
Elemental wonder.

Skies that rumble,
Lightnings power,
Dwarves they stumble,
Jotuns cower.

Goat pulled cart,
Across the skies,
A streaking dart,
The Thunderer flies.

Eyes glow red,
Thor starts to grin,
Born and bred,
For the battles din.

His hammer flies,
It hits it's mark,
The Jotun cries,
From out the dark.

The battle rages,
War is hell,
Dying in stages,
The Jotuns fell.

Quiet falls upon the field,
Birds are circling overhead,
None stand with sword or shield,
The ground is littered with the dead.

His goats pull up along His side,
Thor steps into his golden cart,
He looks out over those who died,
Battle won, he will now depart.

- Glenn Bergen, Copyright, July 3, 2011 


 

I am a footsoldier of Odin,
I am a footsoldier of Thor,
I am a footsoldier of Freyja,
A loyal warrior of the Triad.

My fight is against hatred,
My fight is against intolerance,
My fight is against prejudice,
My fight is against those who wish to destroy us.

I offer challenge to the Christians,
I offer challenge to the Muslims,
I offer challenge to the Jews,
I challenge them to respect us.

My duels are all consuming,
My battles long and hard,
My war is neverending,
My weapon is open debate.

I argue with my comrades,
I squabble with my colleagues,
I disagree with almost everyone, 
I am proud to be independent.

My sisters are the Wiccans,
My brothers are the Druids,
My friends are the Hellenes,
My folk are Followers of the old ways !

 - Glenn Bergen, Copyright, July 7, 2011

Hammer held high to heaven's door, 
Where only the mighty eagles soar,
Lightning flashes left and right,
The elemental power that is Thor's might.

Death to Frost Giants, Dwarves, and Jotun,
None can stand before the son of Wotan,
His strength is limitless, his power divine,
Lightning his element, the hammer his sign. 

Great protector, and defender of man,
Shield and secure us here in our land,
Strength, determination, pride, from you we learn,
Honor, respect, and love, we gladly give in return.

Walk with me now Great Thunderer Thor, 
As you did with my ancestors centuries before,
Guide me, and teach me, to do what is right,
Share with me the strength of Mjollnir's might !

- Glenn Bergen, Copyright,  2011

The seed was planted by Golden Haired Sif.
Conceived in the womb of Jord.
Protected by the Mighty Thor.
Nourished by the rains of Freyr.
Raised to maturity by the bountiful Freyja.

Farmers cut and bind the stalks.
Thresh out the wonderful kernels.
Maidens throw you to the wind.
Seperated, the chaff blows away.

Fenja and Menja work the grindstones.
They sing their familiar mill song.
Flour turns to dough,
The dough baked to bread.

The elder women offer to the village priest,
The first baked bread this season.
In the harvested wheat fields a ritual,
An offering to the mighty Gods. 

The Gods they are well pleased.
The Gods blessing rains down on the field.
The yearly cycle is now complete.
The early wheat harvest a success.

- Glenn Bergen, Copyright, July 28th, 2011.

The courtroom was silent as all did rise,
I was alone, no lawyer to advise,
The judge, a Christian, read the charges, one by one,
The Christian jury sat laughing til he was done. 

Judge : You are charged as a Pagan, how do you plead ?
Glenn : Guilty as charged, I am proud of my deed !
Judge : You are charged with giving offerings to the Gods of old.
Glenn : Why would I not ! I said very bold.

Judge : You have turned your back on Jesus it is said.
Glenn : The Christian religion in my mind is dead.
Judge : You honor your ancestors with rituals, how can this be ?
Glenn : I will make no apologies, I love my family's tree !

Judge : You wear a Valknut, and Thor's Hammer with pride.
Glenn : Yes, I wear them with honor, no reason to hide !
Judge : You call yourself a Priest. What is the reason ?
Glenn : I speak to the Gods. That is surely not treason.

Judge : You read from the Eddas, those blasphemous poems.
Glenn : Yes, I read them each day at work and at home.
Judge : Those stories have poisoned your soul and your mind.
Glenn : They are tales of true honor, wonderful sagas that bind.

Judge : We have heard your lies, we have seen your deceit.
Glenn : I have told you the truth, right here from my seat.
Judge : Your words have betrayed you, the jury will decide.
Glenn : I fear not their ruling, I stand here in pride.

Judge : You admit that you are guilty, that this was your will.
Glenn : Laughing, I said yes, as the courtroom went still.
Judge : I sentence you to Hell, your soul to be burned !
Glenn : I laughed as I said, you still have not learned !

Judge : You can still save your soul, there still is a way.
Judge : Get down on your knees, ask forgiveness and pray.
Glenn : I have done nothing wrong, I have nothing to alter.
Glenn : I stand with the Gods, my strength will not falter.

The judge took his gavel and pounded it hard !
And I was transported to the Halls of Asgard.
It was no longer a Christian that I saw before me,
Just All - Father himself, Great Odin did I see.

There in the box where the jury did sit,
The Gods and Goddesses nodded a bit.
All - Father spoke, his voice a loud boom.
It vibrated and echoed all over the room.

I am proud of your allegiance, your faith, your trust.
You are from my bloodline, your answers were just.
We will be watching, and testing your adherence,
I have faith in you son, I trust your perseverance.

With his last word there was such a flash,
Then a loud sound that came with a crash.
I awoke in my bed, covered in sweat,
A meeting with Odin, I will never forget !

- Glenn Bergen, Copyright, October 15, 2011.   

Mighty one - handed God of War,
Brave tales of You are told in lore.
Despite being descended from Jotun seeds,
The Gods have accepted You for Your deeds.

Power You have over victory in battle,
Victors You choose from up in your saddle,
Tyr changes the course of war and of strife,
One King will live, the other loses life.

The wolf was raised within Odin's Hall,
Only Mighty Tyr would go near him at all.
Tyr alone had courage enough to give it feed,
Fenrir is pure evil, the mightiest of its breed.

Tyr placed his hand in the mouth of Fenrir,
The fetter held, the hand surrendered.
Tyr shows off His wolf - joint with great pride,
It bound the beast, its freedom denied.  

Loki insulted You in Ale - Brewer's Hall,
But on deaf ears Loki's words did fall.
None of the Gods believed the lies Loki said,
They knew Fenrir now had a cave floor for its bed.

We are honored by You, Great Warrior God Tyr,
Proud and amazed at the way You face fear.
Help us to battle our inner demons this day,
Great Warrior God Tyr, please show us the way.

- Glenn Bergen, Copyright, October, 17, 2011. 

 

Strong and proud she stands alone,
A skilled hunter in a frigid zone.
Among the mountains of her father's land,
Far, far away from the hated beach strand.

The tracks are fresh the game is very near,
The hoofprints shape tells of reindeer.
She follows closely, keeping Her prey in sight,
A distant brown image, against the snow's white.

She stalks like a wolf, wary and hush,
Through great pines, and thorny brush.
Closer and closer She approaches Her prey,
The reindeer has no chance of getting away.

She strings the bow, and takes careful aim,
The arrow takes flight, it's target the game.
Her sight was perfect, it pierced through the heart,
Killed in an instant by the great hunter's dart.

Wolves started howling from on top of a hill,
Great Huntress Skadi would give them their fill.
By a great fire alone She would eat,
With all of her wolves asleep at her feet.

Glenn Bergen - Copyright 2011
  

Aesir God, son of Golden - Haired Sif,
And stepson of the Mighty Thor.
You search for game from mountain cliff,
and through the thickest forest floor.

Ullr, great warrior God of the shield,
Hunting on hilltops mounted on skis.
In Your hands a great bow You wield.
Arrows You shoot with practiced ease.

Great God of Hunters, and archer supreme,
Elk, boar, and reindeer are Your game.
Shooting from skiis, or in mid - stream,
Ullr Your skills have won You fair fame.

Ullr we invoke You for help in a duel,
And take a warrior's oath on Your ring.
From Your hall in Ydalir You rule.
Here in Midgard Your praise we sing !

Glenn Bergen - Copyright 2011  

Autumn was too short
Winter came too early
The snows drifted high
The winds blew with fury

We awaited the Spring
The weather never changed
Summer was so bitter
The soil could not be planted

The second Winter was worse
It lasted the whole year
Winds howled like a beast
Our livestock all died

The third year it continued
Sickness was rampant
The food ran low
The young and old died

Then the wars began
Brother fought against brother
Incest was practiced
Adulterers everywhere

First an Axe Age
Second a Sword Age
Next a Wind Age 
Finally a Wolf Age

The Sun disappeared
The Moon was not seen
Stars lit not the sky
The Earth trembled in fear

I took Lithrasir to Hoddmimir's woods
We drank the morning dew
I heard the Gjallarhorn
Saw the fires, felt the heat

When the flames subsided
A new Sun did rise
The Moon re - appeared
The stars shone once again

One day They appeared
At the edge of the forest
Three figures who beckoned
We followed them out

They showed us a new land
With soil that was fertile
There we planted our crops
A family we started

Generations have passed
Our folk have multiplied
Our lands have prospered
The people are content

Odin, Freyja, and Thor
We remember them still
Balder, Magni, and Hnoss
A new Triad to honor

- Glenn Bergen, Copyright, 2011.     

I search deep within my mind
In places I have never ventured
My hidden spirit there to find
My soul is Hers, I am indentured

I cannot see her, yet I know She' s real
I sense Her presence, I know She' s there
I dare not touch Her, but I know Her feel
All thoughts and feelings with Her I share

She's a ghost that resides within my soul
A gossamer thread running through my life
She holds within me an important role
Protecting me from impending strife

She is the light that guides my way
The force that joins my every thought
She helps me control the words I say
Speaking only those She knows I ought

She is called my Fylgja, my guiding spirit
A teacher, a guardian, or maybe my concious
Upon my soul is where Her love is writ
Her presence in me is to me most precious

- Glenn Bergen, Copyright, 2011