Writing with Legends

Myths, Monsters, and the Paranormal.

[writingwithlegends]

Do you do curses or hexs for people ?

I’m afraid not, sorry.  I’ve never actually cursed someone (not against it, just haven’t had the spoons to do it).  It’s also best to do your own curse if you can, as your emotions towards the person will fuel the energy behind the curse.

If you’re looking for a specific curse to do yourself (and I misread the question completely XD) then I’d be happy to help you find one ^.^.  There’s a lot of really good ones out there and I’d love to help.

~Elyce

[writingwithlegends]

Changelings

Changelings could be things like glamoured rocks and logs, but were also often old fairies that no one wanted to deal with anymore, and so they were given to mortals in exchange for children. There were many myths about how to get one’s loved one back from fairies when they were replaced with a changeling. One of the ways to discover if your child was a changeling in Ireland involved brewing eggshells. The changeling would be so perplexed that it would comment on the act, revealing itself to be far older than a human infant or child. Once found out, the changeling could be exchanged for the true human child.

People who have studied the phenomenon and its history have a dark tale to tell. They believe that the changeling legend was eventually used, specifically in Ireland, as an excuse for people to abuse, neglect, and even kill disabled people, as changelings were often described as being different from normal humans in many ways. However, it was also occasionally used as an excuse to kill anyone who did not quite fit in, much like the excuse of witchcraft was used in other European countries. The last recorded case of this was in 1895, when an ill woman named Bridget Cleary was murdered by her husband and several of his friends. Her corpse was found burned and brutally mutilated, and her husband refused to murder. He instead said that he had succeeded in driving the fairy out, and that his wife would soon be returned to him. He was found guilty of manslaughter and sentenced to fifteen years in prison, but this was in a much more modern age. The stories of changelings are much older than that.

~Victoria

[writingwithlegends]

Tag Locks

Not all the spells you cast are going to be for yourself, many witches cast spells for their loved ones or cast curses on those who deserve it.  Yet the people you’re casting these spells for might not always be nearby or able to take the spells with them (if you have them in a physical form), so many witches use tag locks in order to tie the spell to the person.  A tag lock is either something from the person, whether hair, blood, or nails, or something that reminds you of that person.  Many people use pictures of the person they are trying to affect with the spell or curse as well.  The tag lock that you are choosing to use doesn’t have to be something obvious to everyone, recently I made a protection spell with gears for a friend who loves inventing.  As long as it reminds you of the person, it will help direct the universe’s energy towards them. Make sure you get someone’s permission before collecting, borrowing, or making tag locks.

~Elyce

[writingwithlegends]

Bubbling

It’s always important to protect yourself when you’re preforming spells or around draining people.  Whether they’re people from work or family, we all have that one person who seems to take all of your energy when you’re hanging out.  A simple way to help retain your energy is to bubble yourself.

Bubbling is very similar to how it sounds, you create an energy bubble around yourself that keeps your energy inside and the bad energy out.  Close your eyes and visualize your energy forming a layer of protection around yourself.  You can create as many layers are you need and can change the color of the energy depending on the circumstance.  It’s also really easy to practice and a great way to get better at visualization.

~Elyce

[writingwithlegends]

Writing Tips: Denotation vs. Connotation

Denotation: 

Definition: A denotation is the dictionary definition of a word.

Example: One example of denotation would be stating that the word cheap means inexpensive.

Connotation:

Definition: A connotation is a definition of a word, but with cultural and personal feelings added in.

Example: One example of connotation would be that the word “cheap” often has a negative meaning, or connotation in this case. For instance, when someone says something was “cheaply made”, it’s often taken to mean that the item wasn’t made very well and won’t last very long.

Using Denotations and Connotations in Writing:

As writers, denotations can’t be the only thing we focus on when we write. We also have to look at the connotations of words. For instance, when you go to describe a character as a more dominant person, you have many words to choose from. You could use words like assertive, aggressive, or pushy. However, although all of these have a similar denotation, they have very different connotations. Out of these three words, assertive is the nicest as it means someone is willing to assert their opinions. The word aggressive implies potential violence, and the word pushy implies that the person tends to force things onto people. The word you would use would obviously depend on the character, but word choice is very important. As a writer, you have to consider the connotations of the words you use, in and out of context. Readers only get to know your characters and settings and such through text, they don’t get to have you there to describe what you meant. As such, it’s best to make sure you pick the best word for your specific meaning to make sure your writing comes off as you meant it to.

~Victoria

[writingwithlegends]

The Evil Eye

The Evil Eye is a common concept in many cultures around the world. The Evil Eye is sort of like a curse, where the person who has been looked upon with it will face misfortunes. The Evil Eye can occur in various ways, depending on the culture. In most, the Evil Eye occurs when someone looks at you and envies what you have. In some cultures, the Evil Eye can be cast, so to speak, on purpose.

The Evil Eye beliefs are most common in the Mediterranean and in West Asia, although these beliefs have spread as far as South America. In many areas in the Mediterranean and Middle East, it is believed that people with green eyes are more likely to be able to cast the Evil Eye than those with brown. Those with blue eyes are the most likely to be able to accidentally, or purposely, use this power.

Eye symbols and talismans are often used as a sort of defense against the Evil Eye. For instance, the above image was one method used by the Egyptians. Normally the eye above is referred to as the Wedjat or The Eye of Horus. It was often used as a symbol of protection and one of its functions was to ward off the Evil Eye.

~Victoria

[writingwithlegends]

Stone Magic-Protection

Stones are a very good resource when it comes to magic.  You can easily carry one with you and they don’t often arouse suspicion for those witches who are still in the broom closet.  They can also be used to enhance spells and charge other items.  Below are a list of protection stones to add to your spells or carry with you.

Protection

Obsidian

Jet

Amethyst

Diamond

Emerald

Fire Agate

Hematite

Onyx

Clear Quartz

Black Tourmaline

~Elyce

[writingwithlegends]

Headache Salve

I had a migraine today, so decided to share one of my remedies with you guys today.  While it shouldn’t be the sole replacement for medicine, it really does help with your headaches.

Ingredients

½ Tsp of Pine (you can gather it from the ground)

½ Tsp of Peppermint

½ Tsp of Lemon Balm

2 cups of Olive, Almond, or Sunflower Oil

⅓ cup Beeswax

Peppermint Essential Oil

Jar/Tin

Instructions

Put the oil in a pan and set the stove on low; you want it warm but not simmering (if simmering it’ll cause the oil to go bad faster)

Add the herbs in.  If you have an empty tea bag or muslin bag to put them in, then do so as then you won’t have to strain the oil.

Let this mixture sit for three hours on low heat

Strain herbs out of oil (or remove the tea/muslin bag)

Add beeswax to pot and add oil back in

Wait for the wax to melt, then pour concoction into the jar or tin

Add essential oil

Let cool/harden (putting it into the fridge speeds up the process)

Rub on temples (side of the head) when your head hurts

~Elyce

[writingwithlegends]

Horse Writing Resources

Horse Breeds:

http://www.horsechannel.com/horse-breeds/all_landing.aspx (listed alphabetically)

Horse Colors and Markings:

http://www.equusite.com/articles/basics/basicsColors.shtml

Horse Care:

http://www.horsechannel.com/horse-health/

English Horse Training:

http://www.horsechannel.com/english-horse-training/

Western Horse Training:

http://www.horsechannel.com/western-horse-training/

Horse Tack Guide:

http://www.horsechannel.com/horse-resources/online-tack-guide/online-tack-guide.aspx

Horse Tack Cleaning:

http://www.horsechannel.com/horse-keeping/tack-cleaning-tips.aspx

Horse Tack Fit:

http://www.horsechannel.com/horse-exclusives/horse-tack-fit.aspx

~Victoria

[writingwithlegends]

Four-Leafed Clovers

Four-Leafed clovers are considered to be good luck all over the Western world. However, they’re not always easy to find. In fact, for every four-leafed clover, there’s estimated to be 10,000 normal three-leafed clovers.

Nowadays four-leafed clovers represent luck overall. Some say that the four leaves actually represent faith, hope, love, and luck. In medieval times, carrying a four-leafed clover was supposed to allow you to see faeries, witches, spirits, and other entities or beings that could cause you harm.

Five-leafed clovers also exist. They’re considered to be even luckier than the four-leafed clovers. Also known as rose clovers, the fifth leaf is supposed to stand for money. The most leaves ever found on one clover stem is 56. The clover was found in Japan in 2009.

~Victoria

[writingwithlegends]

Healing Salve

This is one of my favorite salves, I use it for chapped skin, lips, and cuts.  Since it contains St. John’s Wort, it’ll also keep away faeries.  It also contains comfrey, which makes the injury close faster, so make sure you clean the injury before using this.

Ingredients

½ Tsp of St. John’s Wort

½ Tsp of Comfrey

½ Tsp of Plantain Leaf

½ Tsp of Calendula

2 cups of Olive, Almond, or Sunflower Oil

⅓ cup Beeswax

Essential Oil of Your Choice

Jar/Tin

Instructions

Put the oil in a pan and set the stove on low; you want it warm but not simmering

Add the herbs in.  If you have an empty tea bag or muslin bag to put them in, then do so as then you won’t have to strain the oil.

Let this mixture sit for three hours on low heat

Strain herbs out of oil (or remove the tea/muslin bag)

Add beeswax to pot and add oil back in

Wait for the wax to melt, then pour concoction into the jar or tin

Add essential oil

Let cool/harden (putting it into the fridge speeds up the process)

Use on light cuts/scrapes or chapped skin/lips

~Elyce

[writingwithlegends]

I had a long week at work, so you guys get another day of sigils!  I tend to make these a lot during classes and down time at work, so most of them focus on what’s currently on my mind.  This were created using Pigpen, a spying cipher.

~Elyce

[writingwithlegends]

Figurative Language: Part One

Simile

Definition: A simile is a comparison between two or more things using the words like or as.

Examples: Her eyes were as vibrant as the forest. He fought using swords like a master. 

Metaphor

Definition: Metaphors are comparisons between two or more things without using the words like or as.

Examples: Sam broke her heart when he left. A sea of mist came slithering through the forest. (Technically the second example is also personification, as mist cannot slither.)

Hyperbole

Definition: Hyperbole is an obvious exaggeration of something, whether it by the size of something, the amount, or something else.

Examples: There were ten billion ants crawling on the counter. The fish was so big it ate my boat and the homework on it!

Oxymoron

Definition: Oxymorons are when two opposites are put together in the same description.

Examples: The cold water made her hands burn.

Onomatopoeia

Definition: Onomatopoeia is when sound words are used for noise.

Examples: Bang! Boom! Splat! Bark. Ribbit. Meow. Creak.

Alliteration

Definition: Alliteration is when two or more consecutive words share the same sound. In some cases, the words don’t have to be consecutive if there’s enough of them in the sentence.

Examples: Sally sat silently in the sand. James jumped over the jagged metal.

Personification

Definition: Personification is when something that isn’t human is described like one or given the traits of one.

Examples: The shadows danced on the walls. The door hinges screeched out in agony as the door was closed. The wind whispered through the trees.

Synecdoche

Definition: Synecdoche is when you use part of something to stand for the whole. This also is what it’s called when you use a material to refer to the whole.

Examples: I asked for her hand in marriage. Jane laid out her mother’s finest silver.

Metonymy

Definition: Metonymy is when you use something related to something to reference it.

Examples: The orders came directly from the crown. Who will claim the throne? The suits are in the courtroom now.

~Victoria

[writingwithlegends]

A Tour Through the Greek Afterlife

So you decided to go and die in Ancient Greece did you?  Well you’re in luck, for today only we’ll be having a tour through the Afterlife.  So hold onto your sandals and pray to Hermes for luck because here we go!

The Styx

The first stop on our tour is the River Styx, and sadly, it’s our last stop for many people.  If you’re unlucky enough that your family didn’t put a coin under your tongue or two over your eyes, then I’m afraid you’re out of luck.  The ferryman, Charon, is stingy as Tartarus and never lets people ride for free.  While in some myths he ferries the river Acheron, you’ll still need a coin to get through.  Once across you’ll be taken to the Judges of the Underworld, who will decide where you go.

Notable People:

-Charon: Stingy ferryman and only way to cross the River Styx.  Said to be extremely filthy with eyes like jets of fire (maybe some eye drops man?).

-Cerberus: Three headed guard dog of the underworld.  Known for keeping souls from wandering back to the living and for being a big softie when it comes to music

Tartarus

Oh man, if you ended up here, you did something horrible in life.  Similar to the Christian version of Hell, it’s a huge pit filled with all the people who defied the gods.  From the titans to Tantalus, you’ll probably never be bored here, as you’ll have your eternal punishment to keep you busy.

Notable People:

-Tantalus: Tried to offer his son as a sacrifice to the gods.  Now he stands in a neck high pool of water with fruit hanging above him.  Every time he tries to reach up, the branches move out of his way and every time he tries to drink the water recedes.

-Titans: The precursors to the Greek Gods, they were thrown down here after the great battle.  Missing are Atlas, who holds up the sky, Prometheus, who created humans and then stole the fire from the gods, and Epimetheus, who fell in love with the doomed Pandora.

-Sisyphus: Chained Thanatos (Death) to a pole so that no one could die.  Is forever stuck rolling a boulder up a hill, as it nears the top, it then rolls back down.

Asphodel Meadows

Neither good nor bad, this is the middle ground of the afterlife.  Here you’ll enjoy wandering through never ending fields.  But this is only after you drink from the river Lethe, which will remove your memories from your previous life.

Notable People:

-None: No one remembers who they are

Elysium

The land of heroes, you’re extremely lucky if you end up here.  Filled with every delight you can possibly imagine, it’s only for those who were chosen by the gods or who distinguished themselves throughout their life.  Given the option of reincarnation, if they end up in Elysium three times, then they go to the Isle of the Blessed, and even better afterlife.

Notable People:

-Socrates: Famous philosopher who was forced to end his life by drinking hemlock

-Achilles: Great Greek hero, with one hell of an Achilles’ heel

Other Important People to Know

-Hades: Ruler of the Underworld and eldest of the Gods.  Sometimes considered a god of wealth, he rules the underworld fairly.

-Persephone: Hades’ queen, she is the daughter of Demeter and Zeus.  She lives in the underworld six months out of the year and is known to be a powerful ruler

-Thanatos: Death himself, he guards the gates of death.  Known for having been chained by Sisyphus.

-Erinyes: Also known as the Furies, these are winged women who avenge crimes done by children towards their parents.  Their names are Alecto, Tisiphone, and Megaera.

~Elyce

[writingwithlegends]

A Witch’s Bookshelf

So for today I wanted to share with y’all some of the books on my witchcraft shelf.  A lot of them have been helpful through my craft (some of them not so much) and I really enjoyed them.  Please feel free to reblog and add your own favorites.

The Dream Dictionary From A to Z (Teresa Cheung): This one’s really helpful when you’re trying to figure out what your dreams mean.  It lets you look up dreams by either items or events in them and help figure out what they’re trying to tell you.

Grove Daughter Witchery-Practical Spellcraft (Bree NicGarran): Okay, this has to be my all time favorite book on this list.  NicGarran comes at the craft from a non-Wiccan perspective and her practical advice section covers a lot of common questions and concerns.  Her spells are also amazing and my copy is covered in little notes and bookmarks to come back to. (I would also highly recommend following her blog @breelandwalker​)

The Kitchen Witch (Soraya): As someone who dabbles in kitchen witchery, this is a good beginning guide to the craft.  There’s a lot of really good recipes in here and it also goes into lotions and teas.  The one issue I have with this book is that the author tends to come off as a little elitist when it comes to cooking; everything has to be homemade down to the broth.  But if you can move past this, the recipes are really good.

Llewellyn’s Witches’ Spell-A-Day Almanac (Multiple authors): I really like these type of books.  It gives you a crap ton of spells to look through and pick and choose to use.  It can also be helpful when making your own spells because you can see what other people have done.

Wicca-A Guide for the Solitary Practitioner (Scott Cunningham): This was actually my first witchcraft book and I still refer to it from time to time (these blog posts for instance).  Honestly, any of Cunningham’s books are a wonderful suggestion and he takes the time to explain all the nuances of the craft.  While they are getting a little dated, I would always recommend Cunningham’s books for the new witch.

~Elyce

[writingwithlegends]

Mayan and Aztec Masks

Both the Mayans and the Aztecs also had masks they used in traditional ceremonies and some of which are still found in sites today.  For the Aztecs, the masks were mainly for display, not for actual use.  Many were inlaid with precious stones, especially turquoise which was used in a lot of Aztec art.  The shards of turquoise were placed on bases that were made of wood, stone, or sometimes even a real skull. Other decorative items used were obsidian, pyrite, coral and shell.  Archeologists have also found masks with inlaid teeth and eyes.  Mayans commonly used jade to decorate their traditional masks which were sometimes used to adorn the faces of the dead.  While it is not known the significance of the masks on the deceased, there are some scholars who believe that they were either used to scare off potential grave robbers or for ceremonies in the afterlife.  Mayan warriors would also wear masks into battle to channel the ferocity of a certain animal.  There were many other uses for the masks, such as births, weddings, and funerals.  Sadly, most of the lore for the two tribes has been lost over time due to Western influence and the destruction of cultural artifacts by the Spanish.

~Elyce

[writingwithlegends]

Weapon and Fighting Reference Videos

Here are some weapon and fighting videos that we compiled a little while back for reference purposes. We use them for writing, but you could probably use them as references for writing, art, anything.

Weapon Videos

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3n7MKHEwA9xXBErhXYZbMQ (this channel in general)

Knives/Daggers

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l76lDYHsLAs (documentary, fighting with)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z143thJWRBQ (techniques/duel)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IsR-C_P98r0 (sword and dagger)

Swords

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OYRJttpKmRM (documentary, history there of)

Greatswords

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_hfLZozBVpM (two handed greatsword)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CfQ0tzYxIG8 (scottish greatsword)

Staves

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fMe0tBBOgCs (staff vs staff)

Unconventional Weapons

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0OuMsPQeKT0 (cane sword)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eNH55EMGyO8 (chain whip)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=56xXUEyi_e8 (chain whip)

Bows

http://legacy.fordham.edu/Halsall/ancient/zeno-paradoxes.asp (Zeno paradoxes about arrows)

http://margo.student.utwente.nl/sagi/artikel/longbow/longbow.html (lots of technical stuff)

~Victoria