The Rune Primer: A Down to Earth Guide to the Runes

Hands down, this is the best introductory work on the runes. It is precisely that because of what the book doesn't include, in as much as what it does contain.Historically speaking, in a magical or divinatory context, not much surviving information is available on the runes - the vast majority of "knowledge" out there now is new age fluff or revisionist history, some of it from the Nazi era or a result from rampant 19th century romanticism.The only actual existing reliable sources of information come from the poetic Eddas, and even those are more recent than the Elder Futhark itself; there are also the writings of Tacitus, though in "Germania" he never actually says the word "rune"; there are a few other works of roman era historians as well, but this skeleton framework of works comprise just about all the genuinely scholarly references that exist on runes in regards to magic or divination.The Rune Primer strips away the fog of obscuring guesswork and romantic embellishment by giving the reader primarily only the cold hard "facts". There are, however, some short, pointed, basic interpretations provided as well, and these provide a nice solid starting point for the beginning runester. Sweyn does not discourage the aspiring vitki from developing his or her own interpretations down the road, but by the same token, he doesn't taint or color the reader's perception with a lot of strongly preconceived notions either.The book is necessarily on the scant side because simply, that's all there is, unless one would desire a book on the history of runes from a literary or "alphabetical" context. That wasn't the point of the book, however. His students desired a clear, concise (and I emphasize concise) primer of basic rune structure in the context of divinatory use.In this regard, the book excels and is worth every penny.Equally worthwhile are the discussions of other authors and books; this is not trivial because this section helps to clarify the historical fact from the romantic embellishments and many personal esoteric interpretations prevalent today. The other authors and books are treated respectfully but truthfully.In short, this provides a service to the reader which could save one many, many months of confusing research and discovery.

Like many people interested in runes, I was first drawn to them (or, the "idea" of them) as they re-emerged via highly romanticized 70's vehicles ala Led Zepp's fourth album, and renewed interest in the works of J.R.R. Tolkien.Okay, I'll admit (secretly) my fascination was with the notion of their possible use in divination. But in the end, I was relieved and appreciative of the author's humble, scientific, and unbiased approach -- which places runes more squarely within their more likely and proper historical context as an alphabet employed for utilitarian purposes which probably had little or nothing to do with magic or seeing the future.In other words, the author eschews pop culture trappings in favor of encouraging analytical thinking, so those new to runes can avoid the trap of getting indoctrinated early into romantic interpretations and modern or new age inventions which may have no real basis in history.Appreciating language as key to understanding cultures both ancient and modern - - and being of northern European descent with a traceable geneology from the mid-eleventh century -- I most enjoy this book because it provides an odd sense of connection in some small way, to a world and family long past.I claim to be no expert after having read The Rune Primer - nor is this book meant to provide such expertise. Instead, I now have an excellent introduction to runes, allowing the pursuit of further inquiry as a scholar and critical thinker: exactly as the author intended.

I bought this book primarily for its sections on other authors and the 'myth busting' section regarding the histories and origins of certain symbols and practices. I found the book to be very honest and straightforward, and refreshingly humble in tone.People new to the runes and the rune poems will find Mr. Plowright's interpretations and translations smoothly written and easy to understand. One thing I liked was the helpful footnotes added to some words and phrases that help your understanding by adding cultural or historic context, which is something often overlooked even by those of us who are long time students or consider ourselves well seasoned in the subject. I was not disappointed with the section on other authors. I've read a few reviews that presented this section as a way of being dismissive towards them, but I found the commentary to be objective and respectful. Not to mention often complimentary and positive as opposed to disdainful or negative. I've used Edred Thorsson's works since the late 90's, and I found the information regarding him to be thorough and accurate to the best of my knowledge, without any connotations of tension or rivalry. Also what was written regarding Freya Aswynn's history. I do hope to see mention of Diana Paxson in a third edition as she has become quite popular very recently. Overall this book accomplishes very well what it set out to, which was to be a simple rune primer that combined concise, practical material with an objective overview of other authors as potential teachers. Had it existed in my youth it would have been a very beneficial book to start with and I recommend it to newcomers. Others who have already been studying or practicing the runes for some time will find this to be a quick, fun read that may teach you a few new facts or give you perspective regarding other authors before adding it to your collection shelf or passing it along as a helpful gift to someone who's just getting started.

I briefly browsed through some of the pages, the book is interesting. Its something im planning to read in my personal studies.

If I could give this book six stars out of five, I would.It’s to the point. It is detailed, but only with the necessary starting materials. It is clearly written and most of all : a no nonsense, occasionally myth busting, fact oriented exposé of the basic rune materials - their history but also the history of the study of runes, from serious sources to the highly speculative.In my opinion, the book to read when starting a study of runes and likewise a precious reminder of the basics to those already on their way.

This excellent book, written by an author with long and extensive experience of esoteric runology, gives exactly what it promises: a sound, no-nonsense introduction to the Nordic runes. In the author's words: "It is intended as a starting point. Not a complete volume of everything, but a basic foundation from which anyone can begin their studies from an informed perspective."Unlike some other writers, Sweyn Plowright does not make any unsubstantiated claims or indulge in unwarranted speculation regarding the interpretation of the runes. Everything in the book is based on primary sources (e.g. the Eddas and the Rune Poems) only. After a brief introduction and a chapter devoted to putting the runes in their historical and modern context, Plowright discusses the genuine, old sources with particular attention to the Old English, Old Norse and Old Icelandic Rune Poems. The translations of the Rune Poems deviate a little from some others that I have read; unfortunately, I do not have enough knowledge of Old English or Old Norse to judge which translations are more valid (learning these is high on my agenda!) He then goes on to describe the modern runic revival, dominant concepts in runology (ørlög, wyrd and hamingja), esoteric interpretations of the runes, resources (including a discussion of popular authors, many of whom Plowright has met in person) and closes with a chapter on `myth busting'.So thorough is the author in debunking modern myths or at least placing them in their proper context that the reader may come away feeling like he or she has been deluged with copious amounts of cold water. However, it is important then to read Plowright's closing words: "It may be tempting to seek an escape from an imperfect World, but it is far more noble and rewarding to face the real World, appreciate what we have, and see the wonder that is right in front of us."My favourite quotation from the book: "His [List's] interpretations were largely based on the 18 riddles or spells mentioned in the Havamal.. [these] were unlikely to have referred to futhark runes. The word `rune' can also refer to a spell or mystery" - a point of view with which I completely agree.This is not a book that will tell the beginner how to get started with rune magic or divination, but it is indispensable as a foundation for putting further studies in their proper context. I can thoroughly recommend it not only to aspiring rune magicians but also to experienced ones who may need to re-examine much of the `received wisdom'.

Having been interested in runes for some 30 years now, I was pleased to find that this little book is the most honest and factual book on the subject I have ever read outside of the sphere of academic publications. It is not a long book, for the simple reason that the author has decided to stick to the verifiable facts, and there really isn't a great deal of historical material to go on. If you're interested in the modern day "spiritual" applications of the runes, or in the speculative re-creation of what our ancestors might have done with them from the perspective of "living history", I don't think there's a better book on the market to give you a solid grasp of the essentials, and of what is factual and what is not (ie: 99% of what's been written about them). Some reviewers have disliked the authors criticism of some of the popular New Age/Neopagan authors, but these criticisms are absolutely valid, and need to be said. Although the book is short, there are plenty of links and references given which the reader can use for further investigation. The author does have a few prejudices of his own (eg: he clearly likes the idea of "rune magic", despite the scarcity of historical evidence for it), but in such cases, he clearly tells the reader that the matter is controversial, and that he's made a personal decision to come down on a particular side of the fence). Overall, if you're looking for the typical New Age/Neopagan fantasy type books on runes, you probably won't like this book much, but if you care about real history, I doubt you'll find a better introduction to the subject.

This is by far the best book to buy if you are starting out studying the runes (or have become lost in the deluge of New Age confussion). The information is accurate and to the point giving the reader a firm basis in developing their own 'down to earth', path to rune study without the delusions of the New Age movement. Included are the Old Icelandic, Old Norwegian and Anglo-Saxon Rune Poems; information on the various FUTHARKS and FUTHORCS plus construction of Rune names, Soul Lore and Wyrd, the Gothic Alphabet and known historical uses. There are also discussions on the most popular authors of rune books, a book list for suggested study and a section on the truth behind most of the current misguided 'tales' concerning runes and their use. Highly recommended.