Slow Havamal: 129

In verse 129, Odin counsels Loddfafnir not to look up when he’s in a fight, or else he may go mad. Also, to beware lest someone curse him.

When Odin cautions our old friend Loddfafnir not to look up, he may mean to avoid gazing over the head of the opponent before you to feel the press of the entire army behind him; or maybe there’s a metaphorical sense of men who stare at the sky going crazy. Either way, when one finds himself in a battle, it’s best to remain focused on the task at hand. To imagine yourself facing a horde of screaming foes will overwhelm the fiercest warrior. But in truth, you only ever have to deal with the handful of enemies within spear’s reach at any one time. ( Read more... )