Odin: Ecstasy, Runes, & Norse Magic

by Diana L. Paxson

"It was said in the lore and legends of Norse mythology that people who got interested in Odin, the god of hunters, warriors and oracular seers were "seized" by this deity, fascinated by this multifarious character. Diana Paxson, author of historical novels and short stories on themes from Norse and Celtic mythology was clearly seized, somewhat to her own surprise. She here beautifully re-tells some classic stories from this mythic complex and relates how they are reflected in the ceremonial practices of the contemporary Neo-Pagan revival. I recommend it highly." --Ralph Metzner, Ph.D., author of The Well of Remembrance

Genres: Mythology, Religion, Paganism, Witchcraft, Nonfiction, History, Divination

286 pages, Paperback

Published September 1, 2017

About the author

Diana L. Paxson (born 1943) is a novelist and author of nonfiction, primarily in the fields of Paganism and Heathenism. Her published works include fantasy and historical fiction novels, as well as numerous short stories. More recently she has also published nonfiction books about Pagan and Heathen religions and practices.

In addition to her multiple novels and collaborations, she has written over seventy short stories. Her best-known works are the Westria novels, and the later books in the Avalon series, which she first co-wrote with Marion Zimmer Bradley, then took over sole authorship of after Bradley's death.

Paxson was nominated for the Mythopoeic Fantasy Awards twice, in 1989 for the "White Raven" and in 1983 for "Lady of Light".

Paxson's non-fiction books include Taking Up the Runes, Essential Asatru, and Trance-Portation. She writes a regular column for the women's spirituality magazine, Sagewoman.

Paxson has been active in the leadership of a number of organizations. She hosted the first activities of the Society for Creative Anachronism, and was subsequently among that group's founding Directors and Corporate Officers when it incorporated[1]. She was the western regional director of the Science Fiction & Fantasy Writers of America, and is a frequent panelist at science fiction conventions, especially Baycon, where she was the 2007 Fantasy Guest of Honor.

A leader in the Neopagan and Heathen revivals, Paxson is the founder of the The Fellowship of the Spiral Path and has served as First Officer of the Covenant of the Goddess. She has been Steerswoman of the Heathen group, The Troth, a member of its Board of Directors, and currently edits its journal, Idunna. She is a pioneer in the revival of Oracular Seidh, which she has taught and performed at many Neopagan and heathen festivals and retreats.

She composes and plays music for the harp. She currently lives at her home, Greyhaven, in Berkeley, California.

More can be found on her blog: http://dpaxson.livejournal.com

Reviews

[Galina Krasskova · Rating 2 out of 5]

Tepid. at best. I was very disappointed in this book (which I'd been looking forward to for awhile). Way too much reference to Michael Harner and his "core shamanism" bullshit (problematic on so many levels in its own right and a major red flag). Way too little in contemporary sources. Very limited perspective presented and one that's highly sugar coated. Disjointed presentation.

Positives: lots of first hand accounts of experience; some useful exercises. I actually liked some of the exercises given.

[Juan Gallardo Ivanovic · Rating 4 out of 5]

It is a great book for people seeking advice in how to be more involved with the One Eyed God.
I was searching something more academical but still it was a surprise, since this work had some insights and bit of info that i didn’t know.
My suggestion is to read this book in a more spiritual sense or if you are searching for something more than myths.
For me, it was good to read it but the spiritual side may be dense in ocassions.

[Barry Huddleston · Rating 4 out of 5]

"A turkey-and-cheese sandwich completed the process of linking spirit and body again." Read as I was eating a turkey and cheese sandwich. Okay Diana, you got my attention.
Sometimes a book falls into your hands at just the right moment --- so it was for me with this one. I was ready to explore someone's Norse-based spiritual system. I enjoyed reading about Odin, there is just so much more to Odin than I knew. While I enjoyed reading Bullfinch's Mythology, I want and need more. I plan to try some of the books in Paxson's "suggested reading".
I also enjoyed reading about Odin's myths and Paxson's rituals. On the downside, the music didn't really do anything for me. I also didn't care for the interior artwork.
That being said, the book is excellent. While Paxson shared her Odin with us, she shared a lot more of herself and that is the real magic of any book.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Red Wheel/Weiser. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

[Kenneth · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good and bad. The retelling of lore was okay, but I can pull that off of more than a couple books on my shelf. Some of it read as very new-agey but that was balanced by some nice academic stuff from books that are on my list of things to read, but I'm too cheap to buy. Somewhere inbetween all that was a ton of contemporary poetry about Odin. Which, if I'd bought a book of poetry inspired by Norse Myth, I might have been happier with. There is a lot of good exercises and music and rituals that can be used, if that weighs things one way or another for you. The biggest takeaway I had was the dividing up of different aspects of the god, and thinking about them in that way. The All Father, the Wisdom Master, the Lord of the Dead and the Baneful Trickster, are all parts of Odin, and it helps to take each facet separately. Overall this book didn't measure up, for me, to Trance-portation or Taking up the Runes.

[Emily Donnelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found this book to be a great introduction of sorts. I have had some pulls from Odin over the years and have been obstinately avoiding any and all of it. I decided to learn more about who he is - but in many other books or research it’s all a lot to digest. I think this book, the way it’s laid out, and how it introduces you to one collection of aspect of Odin at a time has been incredibly helpful to me.

I really enjoy the variety of practices presented and how they can interplay together to get a full view of WHO the God really is.

[Oliver · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this. It was a great book. There was lots of devotee perspectives which I really enjoyed, but I would’ve preferred a little more recorded research, Morgan Daimler-style. On the other hand, maybe I just need to spend more time looking up academic articles to fuel that need.

[Rudyard L. · Rating 3 out of 5]

this was cringe book

[Baroness · Rating 1 out of 5]

This audiobook gets a yawn, a sigh and a bored mental state.

[MJ Demaray · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was led to this book after Odin appeared suddenly and aggressively and having the author state that, that is indeed what he does in the first chapter was very validating. An exceptional read on how to work with him and his history.

[Ben Marshy · Rating 1 out of 5]

Super cool, I can conjure weapons and Odin's ravens now with spells. But one star because it was super culty toward the end.

[Andy · Rating 2 out of 5]

Considering the brevity of the book it is unnecessarily padded with UPG, poetry, and fiction that is germane in the sense that it talks about Odin but also not truly on point since they don't really point to available information concerning Odin. You could get the same information about Odin available in this book from reading the Eddas and a few of mythological sagas. It's all very basic information combined with some new agey exercises meant to connect with Odin. For a book written in 2017 it reads like something written during the 80s new agey pagan movement. Ultimately the book is useful, but there are so many books that provide similar information without the unnecessary asides that this book was ultimately disappointing considering the standing of the author.

[Zee · Rating 3 out of 5]

I really wanted to love this book. I use Taking Up The Runes on a weekly basis. I have so much respect for this author.

The best way I'd describe this book is "cringe." I've never seen an author quote themselves so liberally. Or seen a nonfiction book use an author's personal friends as sources so readily.

I wanted this book to be basically a biography of Odin. A series of hot takes about Odin. I wanted it to have a thesis, and arguments, and conclusions.

It's basically just a collection of fan art, rambling, bad poetry, and incredibly nuanced details about Odin hidden within a lot of other out-there collections.

I feel guilty for how cringy this feels but it genuinely made me cringe multiple times. I had to DNF this one.

[Collin · Rating 3 out of 5]

I thought this would be more of an academic read but its purpose is definitely devotional. There’s some good basic info, though I feel like there wasn’t much here that I couldn’t have learned just by reading the Eddas again, plus some other Norse lit I haven’t gotten to yet.

I liked the chapter on Odin as a god of the dead, though. Hadn’t really picked up on that as much in my primary-text reading.

[Raffaello Palandri · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book of the Day – Odin: Ecstasy, Runes, & Norse Magic

Today’s Book of the Day is ODIN: ECSTASY, RUNES, & NORSE MAGIC, written by Diana L. Paxson in 2017 and published by Weiser Books.

Diana L. Paxson is a prolific novelist and author of nonfiction who primarily writes about Paganism and Heathenism. A leader in the Neopagan and Heathen revivals, Paxson is the founder of The Fellowship of the Spiral Path and has been Steerswoman of the Heathen group, The Troth. She is a pioneer in the revival of Oracular Seidh (a type of magic practised in Norse society during the Late Scandinavian Iron Age). She composes and plays music for the harp.

I have chosen this book because I have cited it during a conversation about Odin and Viking Gods.

As a long-time researcher and connoisseur of Norse mythology and runic lore, delving into Diana L. Paxson‘s book was akin to embarking on a profound journey through the realms of the ancient gods. Paxson, renowned for her expertise in Norse paganism and esoteric traditions, presents an excellent book that not only elucidates the enigmatic figure of Odin but also serves as a beacon for seekers traversing the intricate paths of Northern spirituality.

At the heart of Paxson‘s work lies a deep reverence for the Allfather, Odin, the quintessential god of wisdom, war, and magic in the Norse pantheon, the one-eyed god, the wanderer. With meticulous research and profound insight, she unravels the multifaceted nature of this God, revealing him not merely as a distant mythological figure but as a potent archetype with profound relevance to contemporary spiritual seekers.

One of the most compelling aspects of ODIN: ECSTASY, RUNES, & NORSE MAGIC is the author’s exploration of ecstatic practices within the context of Norse spirituality. Drawing from historical sources, folklore, and her own experiences, she adeptly navigates the realms of trance, ritual, and shamanic journeying, offering invaluable guidance for those seeking to forge a deeper connection with the divine.

Furthermore, Paxson‘s treatment of the runes is nothing short of revelatory. She elucidates their mystical significance, providing practical insights into runic divination, magic, and spiritual growth. Whether one is a seasoned practitioner or a neophyte, Paxson‘s lucid explanations and practical exercises empower readers to unlock the transformative potential of these ancient symbols.

Moreover, the book is enriched by a deep understanding of Norse mythology and its cultural heritage, starting from the sagas and the Eddas, and arriving at other primary sources, ensuring that her portrayal of Odin and his lore remains faithful to its origins while also resonating with contemporary audiences.

Strengths:

Depth and Accessibility: Paxson strikes a balance between scholarly depth and readability. The book explores Odin’s origins in myth and sagas, while also making the information accessible to a general audience.
Ritual and Practice: Paxson goes beyond mere explanation. She incorporates suggestions for rituals, exercises, and even music to help readers connect with Odin on a deeper level.
Modern Context: The book doesn’t shy away from Odin‘s influence in contemporary culture. Look out for interesting references to figures like Tolkien’s Gandalf.
One weak point:

New Age Influence: Some readers might find the inclusion of New Age exercises a bit distracting and not related to the original Norse tradition.
In essence, ODIN: ECSTASY, RUNES, & NORSE MAGIC stands as a magnum opus—a testament to Diana L. Paxson‘s mastery of her craft and her unwavering dedication to preserving and elucidating the spiritual traditions of the North. Whether one’s interests lie in mythology, magic, or personal transformation, this book is an excellent guide, illuminating the path towards deeper wisdom, empowerment, and communion with the divine.

I wholeheartedly recommend this book to all who seek to unravel the mysteries of the Northern traditions and embark on a transformative journey guided by the wisdom of Odin himself.

[Eileen Troemel · Rating 4 out of 5]

In Odin: Ecstasy, Runes & Norse Magic Paxson created a well organized and logical tool for those who want to learn more about the Norse god Odin. Each chapter discusses a different aspect of Odin and his different names. Within each chapter she discusses how this aspect became and what the literature and historical artifacts which support her conclusions. Additionally, she provides practices to invite or honor Odin as well as some literature or song to go along with the practice. At the end of the book she provides rituals, music and a lengthy bibliography for further study.

Paxson links Odin through literature, from ancient to modern including Lord of the Rings. The chapters use the literature to illustrate the aspects she’s talking about. She uses modern literature, opera, ancient literature, and a variety of other examples. Using these resources, Paxson draws out an in depth picture of Odin in all of his forms.

At the same time, this is a dense reading. It takes focus and concentration when she starts talking about the etymology of words and how they relate back to Odin. The language and concepts are reasonable but the density of the material makes the reading more difficult. However, Paxson has done her research well. It is clear she has found linkages between many cultures and sources to create a full picture of this God. He comes alive in her book as you learn about his different aspects from Wanderer to All Father. Clearly she has taken time to connect with on a personal level and study on an academic level this God.

In her practices, she offers a variety of exercises which are easy enough for someone to choose from. She explores the use of runes, how to use them, and what they mean. She offers nine nights of meditation at the end of the chapters. These are meant to improve the connection between self and God. The long quotes are appropriately formatted but dense. Additionally the original language is difficult to read. She does not provide a pronunciation guide which would be helpful. The occasional illustrations are interesting and highlight the text. It helps to have a visual of how this God is perceived. These are line drawings not pictures of actual artifacts. She has these all listed as figures but doesn’t have a list of figures anywhere with more information.

Overall the book has a lot of good information, practices, music for the reader to delve into the study of Odin. Paxson provides a thorough study of Odin and the Norse culture. The downside to this book is the density of it. It is not an easy fast read but takes time and determination. The information is good, well written and thorough. She provides a detailed look at all aspects of Odin which is interesting and inviting. However, it is also written like an academic paper which is less inviting. Not a book to be easily read but once the reader delves in, they will gain a good knowledge of Odin, the literature. If the reader is looking for light and easy, this book is not it. If the reader wants a comprehensive look Odin with suggested practices, Paxson has created it in this book.

[Stephanie · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was looking for a more Odin-centric book, written from an author with a scholarly background on the subject. This is why I chose this book. I enjoyed reading the personal poetry and words, along with the exercises though, the subject of Odin from an historical and mythological/lore perspective was surface level. I wanted an exploration of him, a retelling... and how he, and Norse Mythology, fit into the 21st century from both a literary perspective and a personal spiritual perspective, though the former fell flat. But maybe I missed the mark on what she was trying to achieve with this work and all it was supposed to be was a personal recount of her spiritual journey to, and with Odin, of which, is respected of course for what it is.
I don't know how I feel about the author's suggestion that Odin presenting himself in human form through the embodiment of strangers that we come across in our travels who tends to always look like Gandalf the Grey is a common occurrence. Not to say it isn't possible, as I believe it is and would consider myself grateful for the experience, but I find this, personally, to happen under an extraordinary circumstance (unless you are under the influence with intent to seek him out within another plane of consciousness). I do not discount the author's experiences or the ones she shared from others by any means, but it shouldn't be an expected experience in order to feel you have connected with this god or any other. That's the vibe I got. I believe more in the commonality of subtle signs of presence and connection of which we must stay attune to. She chose to focus on these extreme accounts of connection in human form and nothing else. Odin just felt too humanized for me in this context.
Lastly, every other page is repetitive plugs of her other work at length which I don't find necessary. I have found many other resources of the same author and different by simply referring to the bib or the author's "Further Reading" section. The manner in which her other works and works of friends were consistently placed over and over in the text, was distracting to me. It took away from the subject throughout. I don't need to be reminded every few pages and at length.

[Lynne Thompson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Odin is part of western popular culture in the 21st Century: from the Odin-like Gandalf in "The Lord of the Rings" to Mr. Wednesday in Neil Gaiman's "American Gods" and on to the Marvel comics and movies, everyone has some sense of the Old Man. Diana L. Paxson's book mentions all of this and much more, adding to our knowledge with this book, a very good introduction to the god.

She covers the founding myths and tales, grounding her information in the latest of academic studies. I particularly liked the chapters each featuring a different aspect of the god; there were some areas I didn't know he had any influence in. Ms. Paxson offers interesting meditations and rituals one can perform if desired. There's a brief overview of the runes, which legend has it Odin discovered. And she writes of her personal experiences with Odin, as well as reporting other people's direct experience with him. She maintains that she does not support the racism that runs rampant through much of the Heathen community, and I hope that is the case.

So, if you are interested in learning more about Odin, I wouldn't hesitate in recommending this book. It's thorough without getting bogged down, and there's an excellent bibliography. The only reason I don't give it 5 stars as she quotes a little too much of, in my opinion, mediocre poetry. Odin is a god of poetry, I get that, but Ms. Paxson's prose and people's stories of their encounters with Odin are far more gripping than any of the poems quoted here. You may disagree.

[Fredrik · Rating 1 out of 5]

This book is God-awful. I came through about half before I had to quit. This is probably my first goodreads review where I did not finish the book. Which says a lot.

Paxson is trying to write both a religious text and a scholary text about Odin. She fails at both. Miserably.
She throws in references to her own books all the time, there are lot of poetry without context and that really doesn't help this book at all. She rewrites a old story about how the earth was formed, because she feels it translates well that way, without showing the original. She hardly shows to sources and her analyzing of Odin is so all over the place it is hard to follow.
The story has no structure, no flow and no real information to be gained.
I'm not saying she doesn't know alot about Norse Mythology and Odin, I am just saying that she has an incohesive way to patch it together, which makes the information become just part of the clutter.

She tries to tie in all her knowledge about Odin to her other books and to her religious belief in Odin. This makes it almost impossible to find the real scholary facts, from sources in this book, since it could just as well be a personal anecdote.

Would not recommend anyone to even try to read or listen to this book.

[Emily Johnson · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a fascinating look at the many sides of the Norse god, Odin, from the point of view of a practicing Heathen who interacts with Odin among other deities. Each chapter deals with what is known about a certain aspect of Odin: his names, his sovereignty over war, the dead, poetry, runes, and wisdom. The discussion begins with what is claimed about Odin in what remains of ancient Norse and Germanic literature and moves through scholarly discussion of these writings. All this is given in a clear and concise manner and translated where necessary. Each chapter also includes modern encounters with the god and modern literature devoted to him--both by modern day worshipers and by novelists like Tolkien and Gaiman. At the end of each chapter and in the appendix, the author gives suggested rituals and practices to reach out to Odin spiritually, for those who are interested.
For me, this was a treasured glimpse of how this ancient god might have been worshiped in the past and is worshiped in the present. Find out what practitioners might expect from an encounter with this type of god, all written by someone who knows.

[T.L. Merrybard · Rating 4 out of 5]

Heh, proving that you can't please all the people all the time, in reverse to many of the other reviewers, I would have liked to see more of the personal relationship stuff and less of the lore. In saying that, there were some interesting new insights for me to be had from Diana's writing and research. As to complaining about the poetry, I mean, come on, we are talking about the god of poetry here! :D I would say that Odin is my Fulltrui too, and I must say if I hadn't already met him, I might have been scared to try since he comes across as a bit scary, but the reality is far far more wonderful in all the ways there are. I really liked the exercises to try, for those brave enough to attempt connection. If you feel called, or feel lonely and want a deity who will walk beside you in a way that no other has done for me, he is worth it!

[Andrea · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is ok. It is informative on a simple level, but it's super misleading, which is why I gave it the low rating. It is a memoir of a woman's experience with the spiritual world of Odin. It includes her own and others poetry and prose, which in itself is fine, but it isn't for me. I found the actual informative content of this book (facts, history, etc) to make up a very small percentage, compared with the amount she dedicated to her own opinions and experiences (again, misleading title) I would recommend this to someone who is looking for a book about ... im not sure.. a book about how Odinisms could affect their lives? I have to say that the information was accurate, it was just all mixed up with poetry and it threw off my groove...

[Ed Surma · Rating 3 out of 5]

There was some good information in this book, but it could have been a lot better. I was expecting more of the historical information, more of the mythology, and definitely more about the runes. Instead there was a great deal of personal anecdote, speculation, and sometimes dubious information that made me wonder if this was about Odin or about the author's personal interests. I did read it through, I did like and use some of the information, but as I said, it could have been much better.

I am also reading the author's Taking Up The Runes, which I will add to my list and review when I am finished, but as I am using that book for rune study, I may not post anything for a while.

[Joana · Rating 5 out of 5]

This might be one of my favorite books ever on paganism, although this is just about Odin. Even though I already knew quite a bit about Him, I still learned a lot and the author had a lot of insight to give. I believe that this book is of interest to any Heathen, or witch interested in Odin.
I loved how each chapter talked about (in-depth) a different aspect of Odin. I also loved all the music/poem excerpts and also personal stories, both from the author and from others. I also enjoyed the writing. It was a good mix of academic and conversational tone.
The truth is Odin is so complex the book could have even more chapters.

[Sunnee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent delving into several facets of Odin and details on such. I love that Diana is candid about what is her own beliefs/takes and what is also considered by others. Bibliography is thorough and full, and I greatly appreciate what a phenomenal job she has done siting sources and offering to the reader what they could read next to dive even deeper in any aspect presented.
I also appreciate that she writes from both an academic angle and from a religious practice angle. Truly, if I could find a book like this for every deity, I'd read them all.

[Mike Kriesel · Rating 1 out of 5]

Before you read this book please know this is not a historical book. This is a book on how to let and or make Odin your God. I did not realize this myself when purchasing this at Barnes & Noble, I was excited at the time of purchase because B&N does not carry much on this subject. As I started read this book I became dismayed as she keep using hers and others personal writings as fact to Odin's resurgence into being.

[Christy · Rating 2 out of 5]

Rating: 2.5

I received this copy from a Goodreads giveaway.

The information on Odin and Norse Mythology was interesting. I did enjoy the poems and references to modern uses of Odin (for example, American Gods or Tolkien) throughout the novel. This book does center around spirituality and practices as well as the author's spiritual/religious journey, which I wasn't extremely interested in.

[Owen B-R · Rating 3 out of 5]

I struggled to make it the whole way through this book, whilst a lot of the content I agreed with (around 60-70%) I found it very "Academic" in its presentation of topics. The Author struck me as a bit sexist and I found her experiences of the Norse Gods differed from mine in a number of ways. I think this book would suit those who are studying Norse Mythology and History for academic purposes rather than those who are looking for more information in their Faith/Beliefs.

[Sven Davisson · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very deep dive into the Norse god Odin written by an expert with many years experience/study/practical knowledge. Highly recommend for anyone interested in Norse mythology and heathenry. Positive antidote to the negative associations resulting from some adopters of Asatru for their own political agendas.

[Vvim · Rating 4 out of 5]

Easy to read, a great book for beginners; with references to contemporary culture (the writer Neil Gaiman, the Viking series,...)
Many everyday examples of how to incorporate & recognize pagan magic & lore.
Systematically works through all aspects of Odtinn/Odin/Woden/... (and all the historically known names).

[Gary · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's one thing to study the history or intellectual foundations of the Old One, but to know him requires that we know all his aspects and how they might interact with us. Ms Paxson's book will show you all angles to consider. Nothing I have seen so far compares to the completeness in this account. It's not scholarly, it's instructional and enlightening!