Cad Goddeu facts for kids
Cad Goddeu (Middle Welsh: Kat Godeu, English: The Battle of the Trees) is a famous medieval Welsh poem. It was written a long time ago, in the 14th century. You can find it in a special old book called the Book of Taliesin. The poem tells a magical story about a powerful enchanter named Gwydion. He brings the trees of the forest to life! They become his army and fight in a big battle. People find this poem interesting because it has many mysterious symbols. These symbols can be understood in many different ways.
Contents
The Poem's Story
The poem "Cad Goddeu" is about 248 short lines long. Each line usually has five syllables. It is divided into several parts. The poem starts with someone claiming to know everything. This is a common style in poems linked to Taliesin, a legendary Welsh poet.
Here are some lines from the poem:
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Bum cledyf yn aghat |
I was a sword in hand |
The poem then says the speaker was at a place called "Caer Vevenir." This was when the Lord of Britain fought a battle. Next, the poem describes a huge, scary monster. The Britons, who were the people of Britain, were very afraid. But then, thanks to Gwydion's magic and God's help, the trees marched into battle!
After this, the poem lists many different plants. Each plant has a special quality, sometimes clear, sometimes a bit puzzling.
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Gwern blaen llin, |
Alder, front of the line, |
The poem then changes to a first-person story. It talks about the creation of a flower-maiden named Blodeuwedd. It also tells the story of another great warrior. This warrior was once a herdsman but became a wise traveler. Some people think this warrior might be King Arthur or even Taliesin himself.
Towards the end, the poem mentions some big events from history or myths. These include the Great Flood, the Crucifixion, and the Day of Judgment. The poem finishes with a mysterious mention of metalwork.
How "Cad Goddeu" Inspired Others
The old story of "Cad Goddeu" has inspired many artists and musicians.
Music Inspired by the Poem
- The British band Zoviet France has a song called "Cad Goddeau." It is on their 1984 album Eostre.
- Singer-songwriter Tori Amos was also inspired by "Cad Goddeu." Her song "Battle of Trees" is on her album Night of Hunters. This song is a new version of a piece by Erik Satie. It uses ideas from "Cad Goddeu" to show how powerful words and language can be, like a weapon in a battle.
- The Russian rock band Aquarium recorded a song called "Kad Goddo." It is on their 1986 album Deti Dekabrya. This song even uses some lines directly from the original poem.
- One of the most famous inspirations is the music from Star Wars. The song "Duel of the Fates" is a well-known musical theme. It appears in the Star Wars prequel movies. John Williams composed this powerful piece. It features a full orchestra and a choir. The lyrics for the choir are based on a small part of "Cad Goddeu." They are sung in Sanskrit, an ancient language.
Books Inspired by the Poem
- Tim Powers wrote a book called The Drawing of the Dark. In this book, the main character, Brian Duffy, says some verses from "Cad Goddeu." He uses them to call on ancient beings to help him fight.
See also
