Uploaded June 2017 | Updated September 2026, 3 weeks ago
Inspired by the libretto lines from an “underground cabaret” written shortly after the World War II invasion of Norway on April 9, 1940, lyricist Finn Bø — in collaboration with Arild Feldborg and Tobias Bernhoft — wrote “Norge i rødt, hvitt og blått,” but not until the end of the war in 1945.
The melody, which was now “resurrected” for peaceful purpose, was penned from “across the border.” Swedish composer Lars-Erik Larsson’s catchy march-like tune — actually commissioned by the Swedish Government to stimulate the sale of war bonds (Försvarsobligationer)(1941) to strengthen the Swedish Defense Department — soon caught on in Norway as well, but was quickly banned by the occupation forces and NS (Nasjonal Samling, the National Unification Party).
With the “super patriotic mood” reawakened and allowed to freely resurface following the end of World War II in 1945, the song became — and has continued to be — one of the most beloved among Norway’s patriotic songs.
Verse 1 of the final version paints a picture of the Norwegian landscape. A second verse (not included here) describes the frivolities and enthusiasm of the graduating students (Rødrussen), while the third verse is a reminder of the trials and tribulations of World War II.
The common theme of strong love and patriotism for Norway and its flag is painted in Red, White and Blue throughout the poem.
Inspired by the libretto lines from an “underground cabaret” written shortly after the World War II invasion of Norway on April 9, 1940, lyricist Finn Bø — in collaboration with Arild Feldborg and Tobias Bernhoft — wrote “Norge i rødt, hvitt og blått,” but not until the end of the war in 1945.
The melody, which was now “resurrected” for peaceful purpose, was penned from “across the border.” Swedish composer Lars-Erik Larsson’s catchy march-like tune — actually commissioned by the Swedish Government to stimulate the sale of war bonds (Försvarsobligationer)(1941) to strengthen the Swedish Defense Department — soon caught on in Norway as well, but was quickly banned by the occupation forces and NS (Nasjonal Samling, the National Unification Party).
With the “super patriotic mood” reawakened and allowed to freely resurface following the end of World War II in 1945, the song became — and has continued to be — one of the most beloved among Norway’s patriotic songs.
Verse 1 of the final version paints a picture of the Norwegian landscape. A second verse (not included here) describes the frivolities and enthusiasm of the graduating students (Rødrussen), while the third verse is a reminder of the trials and tribulations of World War II.
The common theme of strong love and patriotism for Norway and its flag is painted in Red, White and Blue throughout the poem.
