11. A better burden can no man bear on the way than his mother wit:
and no worse provision can he carry with him than too deep a
draught of ale.
Intelligence and Common Sense are the best tools for travelers. A person
should not allow him\herself to become so drunk that they cannot think
straight and then try to travel. This endangers both the traveler and his
companions.
12. Less good than they say for the sons of men is the drinking often of
ale: for the more they drink, the less can they think and keep a watch
over their wits.
Some people that drink excessively may say positive things about it. This
passage is pointing out that alcohol clouds judgment.
13. A bird of Unmindfulness flutters over ale feasts, wiling away
men's wits: with the feathers of that fowl I was fettered once in the
garths of Gunnlod below.
People that get drunk together often behave stupidly. Being drunk inhibits
spiritual power because it dulls your ability to focus.
14. Drunk was I then, I was over drunk in that crafty Jötun's court.
But best is an ale feast when man is able to call back his wits at once.
It is best to moderate yourself so that you can maintain your self control
and be able to recall the events that occurred during the drinking.
15. Silent and thoughtful and bold in strife the prince's support
should be. Joyous and generous let each man show him until he shall
suffer death.
Be silent while thinking and defend your ideas when challenged. Live life
to the fullest and do what makes you happy right up to the end of your life.
16. A coward believes he will ever live if he keeps himself safe from
strife: but old age leaves him not long in peace though spears may
spare his life.
Living in fear of others and not expressing yourself freely might prolong
your life, but in old age you will look back in regret.
17. A fool will gape when he goes to a friend, and mumble only, or
mope; but pass him the ale cup and all in a moment the mind of that
man is shown.
A shy person that drinks simply to boost his courage often says too much
and reveals how much of a fool he truly is.
18. He knows alone who has wandered wide, and far has fared on the
way, what manner of mind a man doth own who is wise of head and
heart.
Experience with various types of people will teach you how to tell the
wise from the foolish.
19. Keep not the mead cup but drink your measure; speak needful
words or none: None shall upbraid thee for lack of breeding if soon
you seek your rest.
If you must drink, moderate yourself. If you cannot say something wise,
then keep silent. When you have had enough drinking, politely retire for
the night. No one will consider you rude.
20. A greedy man, if he be not mindful, eats to his own life's hurt:
Often the belly of the fool will bring him to scorn when he seeks the
circle of the wise.
Eating without moderation to the extent that you get fat will only bring
you ill thought from the wise.