The Sky Is Ymir’s Head

How can a giant’s body describe the sky and sea?

In The Language of Poetry, the sky is called “Ymir’s head.” It can also be called “the giant’s head” or “the dwarfs’ burden.” These names describe the same sky as both part of a giant’s body and something the dwarfs carry.

Another name for the sky is “the land of the sun, moon, and stars.” Wind and rain can also be linked to this heavenly “land.” Shining objects and the weather offer different ways to name the same sky.

The earth is called “Ymir’s flesh.” It is also “Thor’s mother” and “the floor or bottom of the hall of wind and rain.” A body part, a god’s family member, and part of a hall can all stand for the earth.

The sea is called “Ymir’s blood.” It is also “Ran’s husband” or “the father of Aegir’s daughters.” Other names describe it as the “land” of Ran, of the daughters, or of ships.

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