Carve the Runes

Synopsis

In this new Selected Poems, Kathleen Jamie explores the multi-faceted world of George Mackay Brown's Orkney, the poet's lifelong home and inspiration. George Mackay Brown's concerns were the ancestral world, the communalities of work, the fables and religious stories which he saw as underpinning mortal lives. Brown believed from the outset that poets had a social role and his true task was to fulfil that role. This is not the attitude of a shrinking violet, tentatively exploring his 'voice'. Art was sprung from the community, and his role as poet to know that community, to sing its stories. But there was also room for introspection; the poet's task was simultaneously to 'interrogate silence'.

Summary

Chapter 1: The Call of the Runes

Ravn, a young Viking apprentice, is summoned by the enigmatic master rune carver, Erik. Erik reveals that Ravn has a special affinity for runes, the ancient symbols that hold power over the natural world. With a mix of excitement and trepidation, Ravn embarks on a journey to learn the art of rune carving.

Chapter 2: The Secret of the Tree

Ravn and Erik venture into the sacred forest of Yggdrasil, the World Tree. Here, they discover the ancient Oak of Runes, upon whose branches the runes are carved. Ravn witnesses the power of the runes firsthand as Erik heals a wounded animal using the Algiz rune.

Chapter 3: The Power of the Mind

Erik teaches Ravn that rune carving is not merely a physical skill but also requires a strong mind. They practice meditation and concentration techniques to harness the power of their thoughts and channel it into the runes.

Chapter 4: The Path of the Warrior

Ravn undergoes rigorous training to become a skilled warrior. He learns the importance of courage, discipline, and the ability to withstand hardship. As he grows stronger in body and mind, his connection to the runes deepens.

Chapter 5: The Test of Initiation

Ravn faces a series of challenges to prove his worthiness as a rune carver. He must retrieve a sacred artifact from a dangerous cave, navigate a treacherous labyrinth, and defeat a powerful beast. Each task tests his skills, resolve, and the power of the runes.

Chapter 6: The Gift of Wisdom

After passing the initiation, Ravn is bestowed with the gift of wisdom. He gains a deep understanding of the runes and their hidden meanings. Erik guides him on a quest to find the Rune of Destiny, a symbol that holds the key to his future.

Chapter 7: The Battle of the Ages

Ravn and his fellow Vikings are called upon to defend their homeland against an invading force. Using their rune carving abilities, they unleash powerful spells and rally their comrades to victory. In the midst of the chaos, Ravn discovers a hidden rune that guides him to a secret path, leading to the final confrontation.

Chapter 8: The Rune of Destiny

Ravn confronts the leader of the invading force, a powerful sorcerer who possesses the dark side of the runes. Through a fierce battle of wills and the cunning use of his powers, Ravn defeats his opponent. He then uses the Rune of Destiny to restore peace to the land, ensuring a legacy of hope and prosperity for future generations.