This translation by Seamus Heaney rings like a proverb on the immutability of fate. Elsewhere, he brings it up close and personal: ‘His fate hovered near, unknowable but certain.’

We would probably question the certainty part, as our culture veers towards assuring us we are in control of our fate, if only we show enough go-getting can-do spirit.

Source: Seamus Heaney, Beowulf, p. 16 and 77