. . . . . . . . . . The Gift of Rain Words and music by Analemma McKee-Schwenke, 2008 audio: mp3 ogg This song won first place in the Skaldic Competition at Trothmoot 2008 See that anvil cloud approaching? It is looming fierce and dark. Though the mighty hammer's hidden, When it strikes you can see the spark. Son of Earth and mens' defender, Mindful of your friends remain. Keep us safe from loathsome giants As you bring this gift of rain. Comes the storm, a noisy gale As the rain arrives in sheets. Trees bow low in thanks for water; Hail on crops a rhythm beats. Son of Earth and mens' defender, Mindful of your friends remain. Keep us safe from loathsome giants As you bring this gift of rain. Redbeard's wagon wheels are churning. Goat hooves clatter 'gainst the skies. With a crack a tree blows over, Soon the soil to fertilize. Son of Earth and mens' defender, Mindful of your friends remain. Keep us safe from loathsome giants As you bring this gift of rain. Storm-charged air the raindrops carry. Rain from Thor is best of all! Off the storm moves; rain continues, Softly nourishing Midgard's ball. Son of Earth and mens' defender, Mindful of your friends remain. Keep us safe from loathsome giants As you bring this gift of rain.