⁴⁶ That is, to have his own heart cut out.

⁴⁷ That is, they had no other choice but to obey Atli.

⁴⁸ The circumstances of Gunnar’s death (“Atlakviða,” Sts. 27-34) being known to his audience, the poet dispenses with their recital. Or are a number of stanzas missing?

⁴⁹ Kenning for “toes.”

⁵⁰ That is, Guthrún. But compare the similar situation in “Oddrúnargrátr.”

⁵¹ It is not clear whether the rafters of Atli’s hall are meant, hyperbolically, or the boards of the harp.

⁵² The ambiguity is intended: all the consequences of the deed—her murder of his sons—are to be reckoned with. As it is, she hints darkly of suicide.

⁵³ To make atonement.