One of the most dangerous and alluring spirits of Slavic mythology was known as Lady Midday, also known as Południca or Poludnitsa. This spectral entity, often referred to as the Noon Witch or Noon Wraith, embodies the dangers of the summer harvest and the perilous heat of midday sun. As a creature deeply rooted in agricultural society, her tales are a vivid reminder of the harsh realities faced by those who toiled in the fields.
A Shapeshifter in the Sun
Lady Midday is a master of disguise, known for her ability to shift forms. She might appear as a mesmerizingly beautiful woman or a decrepit hag, a shimmering heatwave, or even a swirling cloud of dust. Her presence is most strongly felt during the peak of summer when the sun burns brightest in the sky and the air shimmers with heat.
Riddles and Retribution
Lady Midday’s interactions with humans are both a test and a teaching moment. She approaches field workers at the height of noon, posing riddles or trick questions.
The stakes of these encounters are high: answer correctly, and she might bestow a boon, such as knowledge of where to find a magical flower that grants invisibility. However, fail her test, and the consequences are dire. She might strike a person down with her scythe, burn their crops, or afflict them with ailments like heatstroke—of which she is the personification.
This dual nature makes her a feared deity; she is both educator and executioner, a reminder of the respect and caution one must maintain in the face of nature’s power and mystery.
A Celestial Sisterhood
Lady Midday is said to be the sister of other significant celestial spirits: the evening star, the morning star, and the nocnitsa—the spirit of midnight. Together, they form a formidable quartet of forces that influence the daily and nightly experiences of rural Slavic communities. Lady Midday’s dance-loving nature also highlights her capricious character. Legend has it that if she finds a girl sleeping in the fields, she might compel her to dance until sunset, a punishment that reflects her whimsical yet punishing will.
The Cornflower Wraith of Upper Silesia
In Upper Silesia, a region rich with its own unique traditions, Lady Midday takes on a slightly different persona known as the Cornflower Wraith, or Chabernica. This variation of Południca is depicted as a slender woman adorned with blue flowers, embodying the beauty and peril of the fields. Chabernica’s anger is sparked by the damage done to plants and the earth, punishing those who harm her domain with heatstroke, headaches, and back pain.
To protect themselves, field workers in Upper Silesia would pause at noon for a break. They used this time to eat, hydrate, and recite prayers, a ritual that served both as a physical respite and a spiritual safeguard against the wrath of the Chabernica.
Cultural Significance
The legends of Lady Midday and her variants like the Cornflower Wraith speak volumes about the relationship between humans and the natural world. These tales served as cautionary stories to encourage safe farming practices, respect for nature, and awareness of the environment’s more dangerous elements.
Today, Lady Midday remains a powerful symbol in Slavic folklore, representing the beauty and terror of nature, the importance of wisdom and respect, and the ever-present dance between benevolence and malevolence. As we recount her stories, we are reminded of the enduring power of myth to educate, entertain, and enlighten across generations.
If you like what you’ve read so far, consider entering your email to join my FREE Reader’s Club.Reader’s Club members will receive a free ebook, and also monthly emails containing book reviews, the latest installments in my “Slavic Spirits” blog series, and updates on my works in progress, and much more!
—
This blog post includes text and images generated with the assistance of OpenAI’s models. I provided detailed prompts, curated the outputs, and made edits, but the majority of the content was created with AI assistance. This disclosure aligns with my commitment to transparency under the EU AI Act.
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License. Portions of this content were generated using OpenAI’s models, with significant curation, editing, and creative input by E. S. O. Martin. AI-generated portions may not be subject to copyright under current laws.
The Slavic world was a place of long, flat plains and high winds. In such a place of grass and sky, one of their most feared and revered gods was Stribog, god of the winds. Known as the grandfather of the eight directions of the wind, Stribog’s influence touches everything from the changing of seasons to the fates and fortunes of humankind. His role in Slavic mythology is both profound and essential, embodying the capricious nature of the winds and the dynamic forces of nature.
Master of the Winds and Their Spirits
Stribog is not merely a god of the generic winds; he is the progenitor and ruler of the specific winds that blow from the eight cardinal directions. Each wind is personified by one of his grandchildren, who carry distinct personalities that mirror the characteristics of the winds they command. These range from the biting chill of the North wind, known for its harshness and its ability to herald the cold of winter, to the soothing and warm breezes of the South wind, which bring relief and a hint of spring or summer warmth depending on the season.
These grandchildren reflect the diversity of the wind’s effects on the earth, from invigorating gusts that signal change, to gentle zephyrs that whisper through the trees, each imbued with a unique essence bestowed by Stribog.
The Changing Winds of Fortune
Stribog is also seen as a distributor of wealth and fortune, riding the winds of change. It is said that when the winds shift, so too might the fortunes of people shift, reflecting the unpredictable nature of fate and the influence of the divine. This aspect of Stribog highlights his role as a deity who can alter circumstances through his command of the winds, underscoring the belief that divine forces can have a direct impact on human lives.
Bringer of Storms and Seasons
Stribog’s powers extend beyond gentle breezes and fortunate gusts. As a formidable force of nature, he can summon storms complete with thunder and lightning, showcasing his might and his integral role in the weather patterns that affect the earth. His close association with Perun, the god of thunder, emphasizes this point; Stribog is often depicted as Perun’s right-hand man, instrumental in gathering thunderclouds and driving the rains that sustain life and cleanse the earth.
Moreover, Stribog plays a crucial role in the changing of the seasons. He is said to carry the deities Jarilo and Marzanna on the equinoxes, facilitating their journey across the skies and thereby aiding in the transition from winter to spring, and from summer to autumn. This function underscores his importance not just as a weather god, but as a key player in the cosmic balance and the cycle of the seasons.
Depictions of Stribog
Visual representations of Stribog often portray him as a strong yet elderly man, clad in flowing white robes that symbolize the clouds and the purity of the air. He is frequently shown carrying a large horn, with which he summons his grandchild winds. Imagery of Stribog typically includes elements of the sky, such as clouds, and sometimes scenes of blowing wheat fields beneath him, symbolizing his influence over agriculture and the natural world.
Stribog’s domain over the winds and his impact on the world encapsulate the Slavic reverence for nature and recognition of its power over human lives. As the grandfather of the winds, Stribog is a central figure in Slavic mythology, respected and revered for his control over the elements and his ability to bring about change—whether in weather, fortune, or the transition of the seasons. His enduring legacy in Slavic culture serves as a testament to the ancient and ongoing human attempt to understand and personify the forces of nature.
If you like what you’ve read so far, consider entering your email to join my FREE Reader’s Club.Reader’s Club members will receive a free ebook, and also monthly emails containing book reviews, the latest installments in my “Slavic Spirits” blog series, and updates on my works in progress, and much more!
—
This blog post includes text and images generated with the assistance of OpenAI’s models. I provided detailed prompts, curated the outputs, and made edits, but the majority of the content was created with AI assistance. This disclosure aligns with my commitment to transparency under the EU AI Act.
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License. Portions of this content were generated using OpenAI’s models, with significant curation, editing, and creative input by E. S. O. Martin. AI-generated portions may not be subject to copyright under current laws.
The Dollmaker of Krakow by R. M. Romero is a poignant and beautifully crafted middle-grade novel that handles the grave topics of World War II and the Holocaust with a tender yet powerful touch. Through the perspective of Karolina, an animated doll, Romero weaves a narrative that balances the stark realities of history with a touch of magic and hope, making it accessible and appropriate for children aged 8 to 12.
Plot Overview:
The story unfolds in Krakow during the Nazi invasion of Poland. Karolina, the living doll, finds herself in the human world after a mystic wind blows her away from the Land of the Dolls into the shop of a kind-hearted Dollmaker. As Karolina and the Dollmaker forge a deep and affectionate bond, she brings light into his solitary life and inspires him with her courage and optimism.
As the horrors of the Holocaust encroach upon their world, the Dollmaker discovers his unique magical abilities—to turn objects into toys and to bring toys to life. With Karolina’s guidance and companionship, he uses his newfound powers to aid Jewish children trapped in the ghetto, providing a glimmer of joy and hope amidst the surrounding darkness.
Themes and Narrative Style:
Romero tackles the somber subject of the Holocaust with an approach finely tuned to the sensibilities of younger readers. The fusion of historical facts with fantasy elements allows the novel to discuss themes of persecution, resilience, and the impact of kindness without becoming overwhelming. Karolina, as a magical and somewhat detached observer, serves as a gentle conduit through which young readers can explore these heavy themes.
The narrative’s magic realism not only adds layers of intrigue and fascination but also serves as a metaphor for the power of imagination and storytelling in providing comfort and escape during times of immense hardship. The Dollmaker’s ability to animate toys symbolizes the broader theme of animating hope where there seems to be none.
Character Development:
Karolina’s character is a masterpiece of child-friendly storytelling that encapsulates bravery and empathy. Her interactions in the human world highlight the contrast between innocence and the cruelty of war, yet her undying hope acts as a beacon throughout the narrative. The Dollmaker’s character development, from a reclusive craftsman to a heroic figure, beautifully complements Karolina’s presence, illustrating the profound impact of friendship and moral courage.
Conclusion:
The Dollmaker of Krakow stands out as a work of art in children’s literature, offering a story that is as heartrending as it is heartwarming. It provides a sensitive introduction to one of history’s darkest chapters, teaching young readers about the Holocaust in a way that is comprehensible without being traumatizing. Romero’s skillful blend of history with magical realism not only entertains but also educates, leaving a lasting impact on its audience.
For anyone seeking a novel that transforms a historical narrative into an accessible tale of courage and hope, “The Dollmaker of Krakow” is a must-read. It’s a testament to the enduring power of kindness and imagination against the backdrop of war.
Subscribe to my Reader’s Club newsletter for more thoughtful book reviews and insights into how stories can illuminate even the darkest parts of our history, helping young minds understand and appreciate the past.Reader’s Club members will receive a free ebook, and also monthly emails containing book reviews, the latest installments in my “Slavic Spirits” blog series, and updates on my works in progress.
—
This blog post includes text and images generated with the assistance of OpenAI’s models. I provided detailed prompts, curated the outputs, and made edits, but the majority of the content was created with AI assistance. This disclosure aligns with my commitment to transparency under the EU AI Act.
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License. Portions of this content were generated using OpenAI’s models, with significant curation, editing, and creative input by E. S. O. Martin. AI-generated portions may not be subject to copyright under current laws.
Every January I like to pause a moment to look over all I accomplished the previous year, and dream about the future. Without further ado, her we go!
Writing Accomplishments of 2024
Last year was a big writing year for me, with several notable publications.
What We Talk About When We Talk About the Apocalypse is a short story collection about disappointment and renewal. These are short stories written over the course of 17 years, and also hand-illustrated by me. What We Talk About is now available in print and ebook! Click on the link above for more information.
The story of Quest for Aeloria was a concept of my son’s and it involves a young boy with cat-like abilities going ton a quest with his friends to rescue their parents and overthrow a tyrannical king. You can check out the link above to learn where to get your copy.
Writing Goals for 2025
In 2024, I started blogging more regularly and my efforts have mostly been split between writing Reviews and my Slavic Spirits blog series. I plan to continue blogging weekly. Blogs are posted at 7 a.m. on Saturdays, but you can also sign up for my Reader’s Club newsletter to receive a monthly email from me about writing updates, and with a rundown of what got posted that month.
The Dragon of Krakow – an illustration from my Slavic Spirits blog series
Slavic Spirits is a bi-monthly dive into Slavic myths, folklore, history, and fairy tales. These blog posts are my opportunity to learn about my heritage (I am Polish-American) and also share what I’m learning.
Once I have enough material, I plan on turning this material into a children’s book sometime in 2026. I have already received emails and international interest in my blog series, so stay tuned for more entries and updates to come!
The Wood Maiden is a young adult, historical fantasy novel set in Central Europe during the 19th century partitions of Poland. It is the story of Dąbrowa, an orphan in Pomarania who discovers that she is a leshy—a tree-shifter. With the help of her young friend, Ancia, and Ancia’s Faceless Doll, Dąbrowa meets ghosts, rusałki, wodnik, vampires, werewolves, and sorcerers, and dragons as they travel across three empires in the hopes of getting to Zaświaty, the magical otherlands, where Dąbrowa and Ancia hope to attend a school for magical creatures and half-breeds.
This novel has been multiple years in the making. The idea started as a writing exercise in 2020, and in 2023 I attempted to write it as a short story. However, the more I learned about Polish history and Slavic mythology, the more I wanted to fully develop this world. I have been working on this book steadily throughout 2024. I have also been hand-illustrating this book. I hope to finally publish it this year.
A photograph of my desk. You can see how I have created the central image in pen-and-ink by combining aspects of the ChatGPT-generated images on the left and right.
Reader’s Club members will receive a FREE early access ebook copy of The Wood Maiden once it is completed.
Health Updates
As some of you know, I’ve had some issues with my health over the previous years. You can read my full 2022 blog post here: “You Only Get One Body. Take Care of It.” I’ve been working hard to maintain a healthy vegan diet and exercise routine.
I’m happy to say that all my efforts are paying off! At last physical, my doctors said that my health markers are all excellent and to keep doing what I’m doing.
Moving into 2025, I plan on continuing my vegan diet, and also continue doing resistance training three times a week, and jogging three times a week.
I ran over a thousand miles in the Vibram shoes on the right. You can see how I wore through the sole. Definitely got my money’s worth!
Travel
Last year was very special because my family had the opportunity to go on multiple vacations after years of not traveling. We drove to Texas to see the eclipse, and then to the Pacific Northwest to see the landscape and visit some friends. I absolutely fell in love with the Pacific Northwest. So much green! There were waterfalls that literally brought me to tears because they were so beautiful.
We also went on a bunch of ebike rides around the San Francisco Bay Area, where we live. We bought the bikes a couple of years ago, and they have brought us so much joy. Ebikes are definitely my favorite mode of transportation!
This year, my son, mother, and I have a big trip planned. We are going to Poland! I am very excited about getting to visit my mother’s country of origin. I haven’t been to Poland since 2006, and I haven’t been in Poland with my mother since I was a toddler. I’m very excited to see the country and how it has changed these past 19 years.
My only wish is that the American bike infrastructure was better. Bike paths cost a fraction of most roadways.
Polish Language Studies
In 2024, I spent at least a hundred hours reading, studying, grammar and vocabulary, and doing listening immersion in Polish. I would estimate that I’m an early B1 level in Polish as far as my comprehension, but I still have a long way to go before I will be fluent. This is definitely one of my major goals for 2025.
One of the major roadbumps I ran into in my Polish studies is that is really difficult for me to study Polish and write in English at the same time. They both use latin script, but the phonetic spelling and grammar structures are different enough that it has been hard for me to toggle between the two languages.
In my brain, it feels like thoughts and concepts do not exist in a place of words. It’s like they are floating in the air above a steep mountain range. I have to catch the ephemeral concept, and then make a decision about which side of the mountain range to descend to in order to describe the concept in a word—do I choose the English side or the Polish side? Crossing back and forth over this mountain range is hard, and my brain seems to want to stay on one side or another.
In talking to other bilingual people, this seems to be a common problem when one of the languages isn’t quite strong enough. My mother said that when she was learning English, she suffered through a full year where she had a difficult time speaking in either language—her native Polish and her target English.
A colleague of mine said that she struggled with switching between languages until she really started working on shoring up her weaker language by reading a lot in her target language to get them both at parity. I think this is what I should do too.
My goal for 2025 is to really lean into my Polish studies. I feel like I finally have enough vocabulary that I can pick up some Polish copies of my favorite books and start reading them.
Since I’m planning on visiting Poland later this year, I feel tremendously motivated to improve my listening and speaking ability.
My big wish for 2025 is to get my Polish as close to B2-level as I can.
Knitting
In 2024, I started knitting again after taking more than 10 years off from it. A lot changed in 10 years! I have thoroughly enjoyed bringing this hobby back into my life. You can read some of the following essays I’ve written about it:
Reading has always been a central force in my life, and it has only grown bigger these last few years now that it’s so easy to check out ebooks and audiobooks from my library. Freed from the financial constraints of paper, I can read as widely and prolifically as I wish.
Since 2020, I have been reading and listening to multiple books a week. I keep a list of the books I read, when I finished them, my rating, and what genre they are in. If a book doesn’t grab me by 10%, I put it on my DNF (did not finish) shelf. I only count books in my “read” pile if I made it past 40% and at least read the ending… but it pretty much always meant that I read the book all the way through.
A photo of one of my book lists from my Bullet Journal
In 2022, I read 166 books.
In 2023, I read 153 books.
In 2024, I read over 140 books, three of which were in Polish. I mostly read Polish history and YA fantasy.
I have been having an incredible time writing Reviews of some of these books and series. I feel like the review process is a brief and beautiful marker of my reading journey.
This year, I expect the overall volume of books I consume to drop considerably as I switch from reading and listening to books in English to reading books in Polish, which is my weaker language. If I can manage to read through 10 novels in Polish in 2025 I will feel pretty accomplished.
If you like what you’ve read so far, consider entering your email to join my FREE Reader’s Club.Reader’s Club members will receive a free ebook, and also monthly emails containing book reviews, the latest installments in my “Slavic Spirits” blog series, and updates on my works in progress, and much more!
In the heart of Krakow, in a courtyard of Wawel Castle, lies a legend that intertwines Eastern mysticism with the modern fascination for the esoteric—the legend of the Wawel Chakra. Rooted in theosophical beliefs, the Wawel Chakra has become a focal point for tourists drawn to the spiritual and the supernatural.
Theosophical Foundations and Eastern Influence
The story of the Wawel Chakra finds its origins in the interwar period of the 1930s, a time when the Theosophical Society, inspired by the teachings of Helena Blavatsky, sought to uncover universal truths that transcended conventional religious and national boundaries. Blavatsky’s philosophy, which integrated elements of Eastern religions like Buddhism and Hinduism, emphasized concepts such as reincarnation, astral projection, and the manipulation of cosmic energy—ideas that came back into vogue during the New Age movements of the 1970s and 1980s.
The Discovery of the Chakra Stone
The urban legend of the Wawel Chakra began to take shape in the 1930s, following a curious incident involving two Indian visitors at Wawel Castle. According to newspaper accounts, these individuals were inexplicably drawn to a nondescript corner of an empty courtyard within the castle grounds. They claimed that this site housed a ‘chakra stone,’ a powerful source of positive energy that cast a protective aura over Krakow. This stone, they asserted, was a direct conduit to the earth’s spiritual energy, making Wawel not just a historical fortress but a sacred space of profound spiritual significance.
Architectural and Mythological Synergies
The intrigue surrounding the Wawel Chakra is further amplified by the architectural and mythological context of Wawel Castle. The site itself is a vertical stack of cultural and spiritual significance: from the legendary dragon’s den at its base, through the royal residencies, up to the church that crowns the hill. This alignment is thought to mirror the chakras in the human body, from the base needs to higher spiritual connections, thus enhancing the mystical allure of the location.
Global Context and the Earth’s Seven Chakras
The notion that the Earth possesses seven chakras, or energy vortices, is a staple of New Age belief, with Wawel Castle claimed as one of these pivotal points. This network of Earth chakras includes other historically and spiritually significant locations such as New Delhi, Mecca, Delphi, Rome, Velehrad, and Rishikesh. Each of these sites is thought to contribute to a global balance of spiritual energies, with Wawel uniquely representing the protection and healing energies due to its chakra stone.
Modern-Day Pilgrimage Site
Today, the Wawel Chakra continues to attract those interested in the metaphysical aspects of energy and spirituality. New Agers, spiritual seekers, and modern-day occultists make pilgrimages to this spot within the castle’s courtyard, hoping to feel the surge of energy said to emanate from the ground. For many, it’s a place for meditation, energy healing, or simply a spot to connect with the divine energy believed to be concentrated there.
Whether viewed through the lens of historical curiosity or spiritual journey, the Wawel Chakra stands as a testament to Krakow’s layered history, where ancient myths and modern spirituality converge, making it a unique tourist destination that offers more than just a glimpse into Poland’s past, but a doorway into the world’s mystical heritage.
If you would like to know more about Krakow’s mythological history, you might also enjoy my blog posts on the Wawel dragon, Queen Wanda, and the Trumpeter of Krakow. You can find these blog posts, and many more, in my “Slavic Spirits” series. Consider subscribing to my free Reader’s Club newsletter to get monthly emails with new entries in my Slavic Spirits series, book reviews, and updates on my works in progress.
—
This blog post includes text and images generated with the assistance of OpenAI’s models. I provided detailed prompts, curated the outputs, and made edits, but the majority of the content was created with AI assistance. This disclosure aligns with my commitment to transparency under the EU AI Act.
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License. Portions of this content were generated using OpenAI’s models, with significant curation, editing, and creative input by E. S. O. Martin. AI-generated portions may not be subject to copyright under current laws.
Princess Wanda was the third child of the legendary King Krakus, under whose reign the Wawel dragon was was defeated and the Polish city of Krakow was founded.
The tale of Queen Wanda begins with a familial tragedy that saw her rise to prominence after the downfall of her brothers. When her eldest brother, Lech, was slain and her middle brother Krakus II was exiled, there was a vacancy in the succession to the thrown. Even though Wanda was a girl, she was the last remaining child of King Krakus and so she became the heir apparent. When her father passed away, Wanda was crowned queen, stepping into a role that was seldom filled by women in that era.
Defiance and Dignity
Queen Wanda was renowned not only for her striking beauty but also for her sharp intellect and formidable wisdom. Her rule came at a time when surrounding kingdoms were steeped in misogyny, doubting a woman’s capability to govern with competence. Wanda’s reign was continually scrutinized by those who believed her throne was an opportunity for conquest through marriage.
Determined to safeguard her autonomy and the independence of her realm, Wanda rejected every suitor who sought her hand, viewing their proposals as veiled attempts to usurp her power. This string of refusals culminated in a significant conflict when one scorned suitor took her rejection as a personal affront. Humiliated, he vowed to conquer her kingdom and claim her crown by force.
Victory on the Battlefield
The tyrant amassed a formidable army and marched toward Krakow, intent on overthrowing Wanda. Undeterred, Queen Wanda donned her armor and led her own troops to meet the invasion. Legends recount how her presence on the battlefield, both regal and resolute, caused many of the enemy soldiers to hesitate, struck by her bravery and allure. Moved by her courage and the just cause she represented, several laid down their arms, unwilling to fight against such a monarch. Overwhelmed by the collapse of his forces and consumed by his disgrace, the invading prince took his own life.
A Legacy of Peace and Prosperity
Following this decisive victory, Queen Wanda continued to rule her kingdom with a focus on justice and wisdom. Her reign is marked by a period of prolonged peace and prosperity, during which she never married nor bore children, earning the epithet of the “virgin queen.” Her leadership style, characterized by fairness and foresight, won her the adoration of her subjects and ensured her place as a pivotal figure in Slavic folklore.
Eternal Rest and Remembrance
Queen Wanda’s death marked the end of an era, but her legacy was immortalized by the construction of the Wanda Mound on the outskirts of Krakow. This large burial mound, a tribute to her life and reign, remains a symbol of her enduring influence and the respect she commanded.
Today, Queen Wanda’s story is celebrated as a testament to the power of leadership that transcends gender barriers and as a narrative of independence that resonates through the ages. Her life serves as an inspiring reminder of the strength of character and the pursuit of sovereignty, echoing through the corridors of time as a beacon for future generations.
If you liked this story about Queen Wanda, you might also like to read about the legendary dragon of Krakow. You can find more stories like this in my “Slavic Spirits” blog series. Consider subscribing to my free Reader’s Club newsletter to get monthly updates on new blog posts, book reviews, and my works in progress.
—
This blog post includes text and images generated with the assistance of OpenAI’s models. I provided detailed prompts, curated the outputs, and made edits, but the majority of the content was created with AI assistance. This disclosure aligns with my commitment to transparency under the EU AI Act.
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License. Portions of this content were generated using OpenAI’s models, with significant curation, editing, and creative input by E. S. O. Martin. AI-generated portions may not be subject to copyright under current laws.
