"Bergtatt" is notable in that its lyrical content deviates substantially from that of other second-wave black metal albums. While it is heavily rooted in Norwegian folklore, it features no anti-Christian themes, unlike the music of many of Ulver's contemporaries, particularly Burzum and Darkthrone. The album's title, "Bergtatt", translates as "Spellbound"; in Norwegian folklore the word refers to people who wander off into forests and mountains, lured by trolls or other mythical creatures. The album's overarching narrative follows a young maiden who is pursued, lured and killed by these creatures, her spirit becoming "one with the mountain".