Nisse Watching

Nisse Watching by River Pine Kindred


In the quiet of the barn at night,
Where the frost clings silver to the door,
Walks a spirit small in height,
But old as winter’s roar.

With a red cap bright as ember,
And a coat of ashen grey,
He keeps the hearth in secret
While the family sleep away.

Leave the porridge by the doorway,
Lay the bowl with care and love.
For the Nisse walks in moonlight,
Soft as feathers from above.

Give your thanks in humble offering,
For his blessings guard your home
But beware to treat him kindly,
Or good fortune soon may roam.

He will mend the fallen fences,
Brush the snow from stable beams,
Guide the cattle through the darkness,
Keep the peace within your dreams.

Yet if anger stirs his spirit,
Buckets spill and tools go wrong;
Luck will fade like dying embers,
And your nights grow cold and long.

So leave a gift of woven clothing,
Or a simple treats;
Porridge warm upon the doorstep,
For the Nisse’s hands and feet.

For the one who tends your homestead,
Wanders Nature wild and free
Stays as long as hearts are grateful,
And departs when slighted be.

Oh Nisse, friend of winter,
Keeper of our hearth and land,
May our offerings show our honor,
May you guide with gentle hand.

Stay with us through storm and shadow,
Guard our kin and fields through night
For a home with Nisse watching
Is a home held in good light.

Artist: River Pine Kindred

Copyright: © 2025 River Pine Kindred

Label: River Pine Kindred