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Hárbarðsljóð (Hárbarð's Song) | The Poetic Edda
Introductory Note by Carolyne Larrington | Main Text Translated by Henry A. Bellows
Recorded by Folkbuilder Nicholas Rice

Hárbarðsljóð presents a spirited and contentious dialogue between Thor and a ferryman named Hárbarðr. The conversation takes place as Thor, accompanied by his servant Thjálfi, attempts to cross a river.

Thor and Thjálfi arriving at the river's edge, where they encounter Hárbarðr on the opposite bank. Instead of assisting Thor in crossing, Hárbarðr engages in a series of insults and provocations, attempting to goad Thor into a confrontation.

Thor responds with his own verbal assaults, accusing Hárbarðr of being a deceitful and cowardly ferryman. The exchange becomes increasingly hostile, with both figures trading insults related to their respective reputations and actions.

As the argument escalates, Hárbarðr reveals derogatory details about Thor's past exploits, including his encounters with giants and his involvement in various conflicts. Thor, in turn, defends his actions and boasts of his heroic deeds.

The poem concludes without a physical confrontation between Thor and Hárbarðr, leaving the nature of their relationship and the reason behind Hárbarðr's antagonism unresolved.

Hárbarðsljóð is notable for its use of flyting, a traditional Norse poetic form involving a contest of insults and verbal sparring. The poem provides insights into the characteristics and reputation of Thor, portraying him as a powerful and assertive figure, while also showcasing the complexity of his relationships with other beings in the mythological world.

The unresolved tension at the end of the poem adds an element of mystery, leaving the nature of Hárbarðr's motivations and the potential consequences of the encounter open to interpretation.

Hárbarðsljóð is a provocative and engaging poem featuring a verbal duel between Thor and the enigmatic ferryman Hárbarðr, exploring themes of rivalry, reputation, and the complexities of divine interactions in Norse mythology.

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