In Another World . . .
Do you believe in FAeRiEs?
The theme this week at Inspiration Avenue is "Other Worlds"
and technically, faeries are believed to reside among
us in this world. But they are so elusive and difficult to see
that I am giving them Other World status!
You may think of the tooth fairy or fairy godmothers
when someone mentions faeries.
But throughout the ages, faeries have been known more
for mischief and downright dirty deeds, and
there are many invocations, spells, and superstitions
meant to ward off their evil-doings.
Running water, church bells, four leaf clovers,
St. John's Wort, cold iron, and bread
have all been used to protect from faeries.
Avoid digging in faery hills at all costs,
and don't travel on the paths that faeries use!
Home-owners have knocked corners from houses because the corner blocked the fairy path, and cottages have been built with the front and back doors in line, so that the owners could, in need, leave them both open and let the fairies troop through all night. Locations such as fairy forts were left undisturbed; even cutting brush on fairy forts was reputed to be the death of those who performed the act. Fairy trees, such as thorn trees, were dangerous to chop down; one such tree was left alone in Scotland, though it prevented a road being widened for seventy years. [source]
Make no mistake, just like all forces of nature, faeries can be both good and bad.
. . . like nature itself, fairies may be dark or light, gentle or violent, benevolent or cruel, beautiful or grotesque. They may not only be any size, but may also take any shape. [source]
Gnomes are known for their kindness to animals.
Gnomes are the guardians of animal kind and show little preference for their animal friends, not withstanding their aversion to cats both wild and domesticated. They are known for freeing wildlife from man's traps and for operating on farm animals whose owners have neglected them or who are simply too poor to afford a veterinarian. Their enemies are mainly Trolls, and other beings who would try to destroy them or their homes. Otherwise, they are mostly peaceful beings.
Most Gnomes are 7 times stronger than a man, can run at speeds of 35 miles per hour, and have better sight than a hawk. These abilities help the Gnome to do many things, such as find wounded, dying animals for which they feel they are responsible. Because of their love for animals, all the animals of the forest are the Gnome's friends and are willing to help him at any time. Many people say that gnomes have elevated practical jokes to an art form. But most especially they love gems and jewelry and are considered by many to be the best gem cutters and jewelers in existence. [source]
Have you ever seen a faery?
interpretations of the theme, Other Worlds!
All entries will be in by Sunday evening (edt) and
soon thereafter will all be displayed together.
Enter a creation yourself if you have
something other-worldly to share!
Each entry for the month will be eligible for
a chance at the August Giveaway!
