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