"Draumkvaede"

The "Dream Song" of medieval Norway, which describes the mystical visions of Olav Asteson in the 13 holy nights from Christmas to Epiphany. In a trance, Asteson travels through earth, water, air, and fire; crosses the perilous Gjaller Bridge, guarded by a serpent, a hound, and a bull; and sees heaven and hell and the judgment of souls. He returns to tell his visions to the congregation at church.

This folk ballad with pagan and Christian symbols was first known in the Telemark region about 1200 C.E. and remained in oral tradition until modern times. It has always been a source of inspiration in Norwegian poetry, painting, and music. Reportedly a traditional rendering of Draumkvaede has a mystical power in its tones and melody. In 1955 a limited edition recording of the singing of Gudrun Grave Norland was issued by the Norsk Folksmuseum. An English language version of Draumkvaede was made in 1961 by anthroposophist Eleanor C. Merry, with color illustrations from her own paintings.