We rode the rivers of the eastern trail Deep in the land of the Rus Following the wind in our sails And the rhythm of the oars No shelter in this hostile land Constantly on guard Ready to fight and defend Our ship 'til the bitter end We came under attack I received a deadly wound A spear was forced into my back Still I fought on When I am dead Lay me in a mound Raise a stone for all to see Runes carved to my memory Now here I lie on the river bank A long, long way from home Life is pouring out of me Soon I will be gone I tilt my head to the side And think of those back home I see the river rushing by Like blood runs from my wound Here I lie on wet sand I will not make it home I clinch my sword in my hand Say farewell to those I love When I am dead Lay me in a mound Place my weapons by my side For the journey to hall up high When I am dead Lay me in a mound Raise a stone for all to see Runes carved to my memory
