This is my favorite poem in the moment. We all long for our innocent childhood or even deeper the loss of family, of belonging to something bigger or perhaps hopes and dreams that never came true. And we are left as adults often finding our own way, lost without the wisdom and guidance of our elders, now passed away. We must trudge on through the darkness with lonely courage.
"In sadness he sees his valiant comrades then they vanish away" Reminds me of Book 11 of the Odyssey. Is there any way to know if the Anglo-Saxon poets were aware of Greek epic poetry?
Really interesting connection. It's possible that at least some Greek-reading Anglo-Saxon poets, scribes, some monks knew of Homer. Most Anglo-Saxons didn't know Greek, although Bede is an exception. The Welsh historian Geoffrey of Monmouth (12th c) mentions Homer, so I think it's possible; but it's likely Homer's epics came to England from the continent after the Norman Conquest. Still -- it's an interesting parallel!
Hi thank you for your video and your analysis. I like this poem very much as it inspired the Lament of Rohirrim. But do you have another link of this translation cuz that link in the description is inaccessible?
This is my favorite poem in the moment. We all long for our innocent childhood or even deeper the loss of family, of belonging to something bigger or perhaps hopes and dreams that never came true. And we are left as adults often finding our own way, lost without the wisdom and guidance of our elders, now passed away. We must trudge on through the darkness with lonely courage.
I have recently started reading old English poetry, so I am glad to have found your video.
The tone and feel of this poem remind me of “Where have all the flowers gone?’ by Peter,, Paul and Mary (written by Bob Steger?)
Once again, Adam, you have extended my poetic education. Thank you!
Wonderful! Thanks!
Great analysis. Thank you!
"In sadness he sees his valiant comrades then they vanish away" Reminds me of Book 11 of the Odyssey. Is there any way to know if the Anglo-Saxon poets were aware of Greek epic poetry?
Really interesting connection. It's possible that at least some Greek-reading Anglo-Saxon poets, scribes, some monks knew of Homer. Most Anglo-Saxons didn't know Greek, although Bede is an exception. The Welsh historian Geoffrey of Monmouth (12th c) mentions Homer, so I think it's possible; but it's likely Homer's epics came to England from the continent after the Norman Conquest. Still -- it's an interesting parallel!
Hi thank you for your video and your analysis. I like this poem very much as it inspired the Lament of Rohirrim. But do you have another link of this translation cuz that link in the description is inaccessible?