Oddly enough, I've been asked to co-author a book. Yes, I realize I've been talking about writing a book since I started this blog, but it looks like it's happening this time... and from an odd source. I've been tasked to write a chapter on herbalism for a (you're going to love this) book on how to write fantasy. What, pray tell, is going on here?
I suppose I'm probably qualified for the job. I've been studying herbalism since 1997 and acting as an herbal therapist since 2002. In addition, I also co-host a fantasy and science fiction radio show, so...
Why not? I'm getting started tonight!
Congratulations on the book deal, Evo! I'm looking forward to the result!
Posted by: Daryl Kulak on December 30, 2003 05:20 AMThe connection between fantasy and herbalism is one I struggle with daily. I am a simpler, love to be in the field collecting, eating wild foods and drinking healing teas.
I am disturbed often by the occultic twist which gets spun around simple plants of the field.
I suppose fantasy is a nice way of saying it.
Posted by: Twig woman on January 10, 2004 10:50 AMOne has to be concerned about confusing "occult" with "ritual". I start to get a skeptical twitch when I think about it too much, though I have to admit there is more going on with herbal medicine than simple interactions of chemical compounds...
My contribution to the book (about 1500 words now) will deal much with plant lore and herstory while giving a balanced view of the real healing powers of plants.
Posted by: Evo on January 12, 2004 08:44 AMDo people confuse occult with ritual?
In my dictionary, Occult is hidden, concealed, secret, beyond human understanding and mysterious, while ritual is defined as a set form or system of rites or the observance of set forms, or rites, or practice, or service. I don't see the confusion there.
Where I see it is that some want to attribute mysterious and hidden meanings to simple things and then pretend that only they can discern those secret or mysterious properties.
I hope you can avoid that when you co-author your book because it's pretty clear that the herbs and their properties are gifts from God and for everyone to understand and use.
Good luck - hope the book's a smashing success!
Posted by: Twig woman on January 19, 2004 02:36 PM