Slow Havamal: 82

In the 82nd verse, we’re told to chop firewood when the wind begin to blow, to row on calm seas, and court a lover at night when few are watching; to prize a ship for speed, a shield for its protection, a sword for its sharpness, a woman for her kiss.

The two halves of this verse advise us to do things at the right time, and value things for the right reasons, respectively. A cold autumn wind reminds us that the firewood stack should be higher than we think. A calm sea invites sailors, and the night will obscure us and guard us from certain troubles in pursuing a lover. These things can be done at any time, but there are times when they are more fruitful.
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