Sonatorrek

poem by Egill Skallagrímsson

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July 14, 2026

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Sonatorrek is a deeply personal poem composed by the renowned Icelandic skaldic poet Egill Skallagrímsson around 961 CE. The poem serves as a lament for the loss of his sons and also reflects on the deaths of his parents.1

In Sonatorrek, Egill grapples with overwhelming grief and a desire for revenge, particularly against the god Odin. However, the poem gradually shifts towards a sense of resignation and gratitude for the gift of poetry that Odin bestowed upon him. This profound work is preserved within the Egils saga, which chronicles the adventurous life and verses of Egill Skallagrímsson.1

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Egill Skallagrímsson
961) the deeply personal lament Sonatorrek (“Loss of Sons,” or “Revenge Denied”). The poem is also a family portrait in which he recalls the deaths of his parents as well; in it the desire for revenge and hatred of Odin overwhelms him, but gradually he bows his head in resignation…
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961) the deeply personal lament Sonatorrek (“Loss of Sons,” or “Revenge Denied”). The poem is also a family portrait in which he recalls the deaths of his parents as well; in it the desire for revenge and hatred of Odin overwhelms him, but gradually he bows his head in resignation…
Read More