An Old Viking Song - Starka Varna
Starka varna vesta lee
Obediah, obediah
Starka varna vesta lee
Obediah munye
Stolla stoyta stonga rerr
Oh what says du? Bunshca berr
Stolla stoyta stonga rerr
Littera mevee drenyee
Senna poppa waarra
Obediah, obediah
Senna poppa waarra
Obediah munye
This song, a Viking rowing song in the old Norn language of Shetland, was found in the 1940s on the Shetland island of Unst. It is still sung in Iceland.
I have tried to get some translation, with no success.
It has to do with learning to manage a boat I think, and may be asking for the help and guidance of a father or God [poppa can mean both I have been told].
Hear a new Viking song to the same tune HERE.
