What is sonatorrek?

Sonatorrek is a medieval Icelandic poem believed to have been written by the Icelandic skald Egill Skallagrímsson in the late 10th century. The poem is a lamentation for the death of Egill's son, Bodvar, who had drowned in the Mediterranean. The title of the poem, Sonatorrek, roughly translates to "mourning for the son," or "loss of a son." The poem is known for its complex structure and use of kennings (figurative expressions). It is considered one of Egill's greatest works and is often studied in Icelandic literature courses.

The poem is divided into 13 stanzas, with each stanza having 8 lines. Each stanza features a distinct theme, such as the experience of loss, coping with grief, and the inevitability of death. Throughout the poem, Egill reflects on his relationship with his son and the impact of his loss. He also contemplates the role of fate and the inevitability of death.

Sonatorrek is considered a significant work in the Icelandic literary tradition, as it reflects the cultural importance of familial bonds and the grieving process. Its intricate structure and use of metaphors and kennings also demonstrate the sophisticated poetic techniques of Old Norse literature.