The meaning of the lyrics of the song "Helvegen" by the artist "Wardruna"

Wardruna's "Helvegen" (translated as "The Road to Hel") delves into the theme of death and the passage to the underworld in Norse mythology. The lyrical protagonist, standing on the precipice of death, appeals to Odin, the Allfather, for guidance and protection on the path to Hel, the realm of the dead.

The coldness enveloping the protagonist symbolizes the approaching embrace of death. He seeks solace and strength in songs, which hold immense cultural significance in Norse tradition and are believed to possess magical power. The tears offered as a sacrifice to Odin represent the protagonist's willingness to pay the price for knowledge and protection.

The mention of Odin's sacrificed eye, given in exchange for wisdom, emphasizes the importance of sacrifice and the readiness to relinquish something precious for a greater purpose. The raven, Odin's messenger, symbolizes the inevitability of death and the watchful gaze of the gods over humanity.

The central question posed in the song is, "Will you cross the bridge of Gjöll with my song?" Gjöll is the bridge leading to Hel, and only the worthy may cross it. The song, therefore, becomes a passport, a key to passage into the afterlife.

The final lines, quoting from the "Hávamál" ("Sayings of the High One"), highlight the ephemeral nature of life and the inevitability of death. However, even in the face of mortality, there is something enduring – glory, the memory of heroic deeds, that outlives the individual.