The Havamal: A Heathen Path of Living (Part 46)

74.

He welcomes the night who has enough provisions,

Close are ship’s quarters.

Dangerous the dark in autumn,

The weather may change within a week,

And more in a month’s time.

This stanza reminds us that things can change at any time and that we should be ready for it. One never knows when things can go badly. In fact, from an ancient’s perspective, change was inevitable as they seasons are constantly moving through their never ending cycles and the weather will change with them. Though today may be fair and sunny, it is only inevitable that rain and snow will come eventually.

But, the first line of this stanza gives us hope that with enough preparations things will not seem so bleak. With enough provisions, one does not need to fear the night. This line reminds me of something in the introduction of Outdoor Survival Skills by Larry Dean Olsen. In it, he writes, “Because of confidence and practice, when one learns to live off the land entirely, being lost in no longer life-threatening. Any manufactured item, such as a good knife or a sleeping bag, then becomes a useful and appreciated luxury, but not a dire necessity!” We should learn how to take care of ourselves and be prepared for rough times. When we are, then we can truly appreciate the “provisions” we have acquired: friends, family, income, home, job, etc. Even if you don’t have these things, it is best to take stock of what you do have with you. Because it is these things that are going to help you get through the “dark in autumn.”

But, I would be remiss if I did not point out another implication of this stanza: just because things always change doesn’t mean that things always get worse. Though warm summer eventually gives way to cold, dark winter, this does not mean that it will stay cold forever. Eventually, the snows of winter give way to the rains of spring and then to the sun of summer. Just as you need to be prepared for the hard times, you should be ready for the good times because they will be coming around too.