The Riming Poem

He gifted me with life,
who this light unveil'd,
and the bright creation
widely display'd.
Glad I was in joys,
in ornamented forms,
in colours of delights,
in hues of blossoms.
Men me regarded;
the feast they fail'd not,
in the vital gift rejoiced,
in fretted cups,
in a dwelling on the plains,
in young hopes.
in pleasure with long

Then was with fruits awaken'd
the world * *

Guests went,
in social converse mingled,
pleasure lengthen'd,
joyously embellish'd.

On the watery stream was a way,
where the vessel glided near by me.
I had a high condition;
in hall to me was no compeer,
who there a proud word utter'd.
Oft there a man would wait,
that he in my court might see
the weight of treasure.
With thanes doughty,
while I was powerful
the valiant prais'd me,
in battle sav'd me,
nobly bore me,
from foes protected me.
Thus me joy's gift held,

a foundation for my possessions placed,
my steps govern'd.
As it were the whole earth,
I possess'd the princely throne:
in magic words I spake.

My servants were diligent,
Skyl was my harper;
loud he sounded,
his tones echoed forth:
the plectrum resounded,
nor much ceas'd it:
the castle-hall trembled;
bright it tower'd.
In valour I increas'd,
happiness beckon'd me.
Chieftains I favour'd,
to the brave I was bounteous,
my mind I strengthen'd,
my followers rejoiced,
my tree branch'd,
my glory flourish'd,
in prosperity I exulted.
Gold I supplied,
gems I cast around.

Bold I was in arms,
goodly in my garments,
my joy was lordly,
my condition joyous:
the land I protected,
to the folks I sang:
my life was long
among people,
with glories heavy,
well hung.
Now my soul is rugged . . .