Balder monologue — The Death of Balder

Ha! wherefore crush'd I not to earth the brawler? But Nanna loves him--and shall Balder render Nanna unhappy, cause despair to enter Her breast, and dim with tears her eyes' effulgence? And what is his offence, the noble hero? He loves--ha, who can gaze upon thy beauties And love thee not, proud maiden? But he braves me! Ah! he is young and fortunate, and if I Had slain him now, 'twas Nanna's love I punish'd, And not his insolence; and, O my bosom! Shall thy pure flame dishonour thee? No, Balder! Love on and die, but of thyself be worthy! Ha, let me lose my life and all, Allfather! And Nanna e'en! Yes, let me lose e'en Nanna! But not the virtue she herself doth honour!