Introduction to the Songs

About myself as a writer… I am certainly not a gifted author capable of crafting captivating stories, nor am I a poet who can create culturally appealing poems. My passion lies in exploring primarily historical, mythological, or folkloric themes. Occasionally, I write an article or a book about these topics, all non-fiction. The articles are freely available for reading and downloading on my website.
During the necessary breaks while researching or writing, I occasionally found myself jotting down small pagan-oriented poems that later resembled song lyrics. This inspired me to actually turn them into songs. During my active years in profession, I had to play the recorder from time to time and had also learned a few guitar chords. However, after such a long time – I am now long retired – I no longer possess those skills.
I never had a singing voice; it was just enough for singing in the shower, in the car, or for group singing around the campfire. Therefore, for several years, I subtly searched and asked questions to find someone who could turn my poems into songs. I did receive some offers, but the prices demanded were far beyond my financial means. When the opportunity arose in recent years to realize my wish with the help of AI, I seized it.
While I still hold a somewhat critical view of AI, I also recognize its positive aspects. In this case, it realistically presents the only way for me to bring my poems and song lyrics to life as songs. I was in advance aware and accept that not everyone will respect this. I won’t delve further into this discussion here.
For modest monthly fees, I was able to actually create the songs using the available tools. This included, among others, online services where I had to input text and specify the music genre, instruments, vocal style, and mood. I would then receive a song. For each song, I needed between ten and sixty attempts before I was satisfied. Often, I edited them more or less in an audio editor that also offers AI features.
In addition, My knowledge of the three languages in which the songs are sung has its limitations, especially when it comes to poetry. There may be mistakes, and archaic words are likely present as well. I haven’t had my poems corrected for this.
Although I have utilized various musical genres, I often chose ballads within them to better highlight the text.
Furthermore, I must confess, and don’t regret that at all, that the only touchstone I relied for the melodies war my own very personal taste – encompassing folk, metal, rock, blues, and similar genres. Naturally, I hope that others will appreciate (some of) them as well, but in truth, I wasn’t concerned about that during the creative process..
This is the story behind the songs.

They are all available for free and published under the Creative Commons license with the rights modules “Attribution – Non-Commercial Use – No Derivatives” (CC-BY-NC-ND).
Under these conditions, the songs can be reproduced, distributed, and made publicly accessible.

Wishing you much enjoyment in listening,
Gunivortus
(for family and friends: Guus)