Slow Havamal: 64

The 64th verse says that the wise should use their abilities in moderation. That way, when among the company of bold men, he will find that no one is braver than all the others.

Crawford notes that the second part of this verse perplexes scholars. He renders it as literally as possible to offer the reader the chance to decide, but offers the explanation that the reason the wise man should moderate his ability is that it may be perceived as showing off, inciting a dangerous game of one-upmanship. I’ll explore that possibility and see what else crops up.( Read more... )