Slow Havamal: 46

The 46th verse refers to the same friend, saying that if you mistrust him, you should still speak with him and laugh with him, but repay him only what you get from him.

The same friend from the previous verse explicitly shows up again, and the advice we’re given seems little more than a repetition. I suspect repetitions are a sign to pay attention, so instead of another dive into cultural and moral discord and semiosis, I’ll treat this one for exactly what it gives me. We’re dealing with a friend who we can’t trust. What he says is unreliable, and maybe intended to earn him rewards at our expense. Whatever his crime, it isn’t severe enough to sever ties entirely, or that may not be an option for other reasons. We need some way to benefit from a risky relationship.( Read more... )