Before the world’s creation

There was a vast and empty space;[27]

Therein no vegetation.

Ice, snow, and fog from Niffelheim

Lay northward; south from Muspelheim

Proceeded sparks of fire,

That warmth and growth inspire.

“Against the frost i’ th’ vast abyss

Winds from the south now came;

They mix’d; then matter dropp’d, and this