One area of the paranormal that I have always found interesting, is that of cryptozoology. The thought that some of the strange creatures that often seem to present themselves in fiction alone, could indeed exist is often something that plays with ones imagination. The possibility of a huge prehistoric animal still living in Loch Ness or hairy potential ape like animal roaming the forests of the americas; unseen by many, but witnessed by few is something that almost allows us to once again believe in the magical possibility that anything is possible.

Of course in many cases, the Loch Ness Monster being a prime example, both the local environment and what it provides seem to lack the necessary elements to sustain one such creature, let alone the possibility of an entire species. As someone that has grown up in a household where their mother knows a reasonable amount regarding the subject of animals, there were of course discussions at times regarding such supernatural creatures and the reality of their existence. With understandings around local ecosystems and their sustainability when it comes to the creatures in question, usually being the downfall of existence.

As my youngest daughter reaches the ripe old age of ‘nearly eight’ the concept of magic and supernatural creatures quickly begins to be extinguished by ‘those children in the know’ and of course the older children that no longer believe. So, at a last ditch attempt to save a little magic in this world, both for her and perhaps for myself; I thought I would begin to write regularly about supernatural creatures. This will be made up of information I find online (as ever these days), from the many books on my shelves and of course from personal knowledge and understanding too. Whilst my initial notes will be written in my personal daily journal, the idea is to start building a single leather bound journal I have full of this information. A little like a field guide about these creatures; or at least the best I can.

I do not expect it to be a quick endeavour, with me adding more and more details over the years to come. The full journal being a gift to my children and perhaps their children too. Whilst it is not really aligned with my usual research and writing, you never know where a cross-over may emerge.

Also, before I am accused of leaving huge amounts of information out, these entries will be designed to show some information with the hope that the reader feels inspired enough to find out more. One of the best examples I can provide for this is the Mothman, which in the past led me down such a path that I learnt a great deal about a case I would not have even likely thought about previously. Sometimes, all we need is a little inspiration to get us heading in the right direction.

So, let us kick things off in this series with my notes on Fairies; for two reasons; 1) my daughter has mentioned them on many occasions; and 2) one of my favourite authors was involved in a case that was all about Fairies.

Fairies

Fairy is from the old French word Faerie – so you may see it spelt various ways throughout these notes.

In fact the term ‘fairy’ has quite possibly been rather over used through time to describe a wide ranging number of various supernatural beings. Hence there are often many differences between fairies from Celtic folklore and say those in modern literature.

The idea of faeries seem to have roots that stretch back through history with mentions the world over; with stories from Ancient Egypt, Ancient Greece, Ancient Rome, Norse legends and more.

Early forms of faeries can be found as mythical beings in Greek mythology; such as nymphs, satyrs and sileni. Often the creatures are considered minor deities of nature or of natural phenomena. However, they can also be seen as guardian spirits in Roman religion; such as penates, and genii.

Looking at the Norse traditions and their wide variety of elves, disir and valkyries that could equally be identified as fairies.

Fairy stories appear to have many cross-overs with various lore from around the world with them being seen to have many similarities with various supernatural creatures. Their existence appears to connect more so with the very world itself, perhaps giving them the same command over the elements. Often related to in their magic. They are nether good or bad, but both; with extremes of both from helping those in need to plain old abduction and murder. Then there is the strange use of dancing, singing and music used to draw people in never to be seen again. Very much like the siren. Enchanting music heard on the breeze being a common them in fairy stories of old.

However, whilst fairies are common in historical lore and present in modern entertainment; there was an interesting case that hit headlines in more recent times.

There are many variations and stories concerning faeries, from the world over. Some which inspire and present fairies as always doing good; others which present them as very scary characters. Suffice to say they should not be meddled with, if they are indeed real; or perhaps they only really exist in our imaginations and lore.

Names –

Faerie – Faery – Fairy

Faeries (plural)

Sidhe

Spyrys