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