A kind word need not cost much, The price of praise can be cheap: With half a loaf and an empty cup I found myself a friend, Of his knowledge a man should never boast, Rather be sparing of his speech When to his house a wiser comes: Silent ones seldom make mistakes Havamal The words you read Are of the days long past Havamal These words you hear Wuotan's decrees must last Blessed is he who in his own lifetime Is awarded praise and wit, For ill counsel is often given From other mortal men The coward believes he will live forever If he holds back in the battle, But in old age he shall have no peace Though spears have spared his limbs Havamal The words you read Are of the days long past Havamal These words you hear Wuotan's decrees must last To ask well, to answer rightly, Are the marks of a wise man: Men must speak of men's deeds, What happens may not be hidden. Wise is he not who is never silent, Mouthing meaningless words: A glib tongue that goes on chattering Sings to its own harm. Havamal The words you read Are of the days long past Havamal These words you hear Wuotan's decrees must last Havamal These words he spake Help guide thee through the day Havamal These words of right Shall light thee on thy way