To Balder

[hearthstone]

Hail to bright Balder, son of farseeing Frigga
and wandering Odin, husband of faithful Nanna,
master of high-walled Breidablik. Shining Balder,
most praiseworthy god, fairest of the Aesir,
noble guest of kindly Hella, we honor you.
Balder, near-invulnerable one, of you
a tragic tale is told: your mother's gift
of protection, of a shield against all weapons,
proved no safeguard from tricks and treachery;
your death, in your own dreams foretold, came to pass,
inescapable despite all her efforts,
all her love and care. Balder, dweller in Helheim,
shining hope of the gods, both within and without
you hold a place. Hail to Balder! Hail the best of gods!