Asatru from within

Hindrance of spirit: ego, arrogance, defensiveness.

Knowledge of ones roots can not be attained solely thru litterature, we don't get to know the gods or a folks ways by reading about them just like we dont get to know a person by reading about them. 

It requires a combination of things, like senses, spirit, intent and receptiveness. All these are non-intellectual qualities. 

A healthy balance is needed, intellect not excluded, of course. It is easier for the people that still live in their ancestral lands to maintain that balance. 

The reason is simply that the land their ancestors walked upon, the nature spirits, the cultural traditions expressed thru food, music, a common spirit in which they connect with each other subconcioulsy is readily available. 

Litterature becomes less important, but naturally not unimportant.