Arts & Sciences
Riddle 66: Creation
Translated by R. K. Gordon, Anglo-Saxon Poetry (Everyman’s Library, 1926) · From Exeter Book Riddles (selection)
I am greater than this world, less than a hand-worm, lighter than the moon, swifter than the sun. All the floods of the sea are in my embraces and the bosom of this earth, the green fields. I touch the depths, I plunge beneath hell, I mount above the heavens, the abode of glory; far I extend over the dwelling of angels; I fill the earth, the whole world and the streams of ocean far and wide with myself. Tell my name.
This translation is printed as prose in its source edition.
Codex Note
Gordon's riddle headed 'Creation' (his selection gives headings, not numbers); ASPR Riddle 66.
Cite this poem
MLA
Anonymous (Old English). “Riddle 66: Creation.” Translated by R. K. Gordon, Anglo-Saxon Poetry. Poetry Codex, poetrycodex.com/poem/anonymous-old-english/250/.
Chicago
Anonymous (Old English). “Riddle 66: Creation.” Translated by R. K. Gordon, Anglo-Saxon Poetry. Poetry Codex. https://poetrycodex.com/poem/anonymous-old-english/250/.
Read this poem with the Codex →