Review: The Secret of Roan Inish

Just before, during and since my trip to Scotland the Selkie myth has been brought to my attention on several occasions. There was a book, mention of them by various people and while searching for a film to watch, having viewed "Ondine", I stumbled across "The Secret of Roan Inish" on Amazon.

I perused the description of the movie at Amazon, a single line that offered little in the way of what to expect. One Australian reviewer, Brian Barratt, revealed the whole movie without offering a spoiler alert, though he did proffer further information on the myths and legends associated with selkies and seals. Despite knowing the complete storyline, I ordered the DVD; it was going cheap.

Arriving home from work in the early hours of the morning, with nothing on the box, I began to watch the movie. I must say the beginning was a little confusing, but I soon caught on. The movie isn't fast paced and is probably aimed at children, nonetheless I enjoyed it. Even though I knew "the secret", I was still entranced by the tale and found myself becoming anxious as to how the story would resolve; I was glued to the screen.

The story centres on a girl called Fiona, who is sent to her grandparents' house in Donnegal to escape the city in which her father now lives. The proximity of her grandparents' house to the island of her family's origin, Roan Inish, causes the girl to ponder the fate of her infant brother, Jimmy, now mourned by his family. With the help of her sympathetic cousin, Eamon and some more distant, dark relatives, Fiona uncovers the truth about her island origins; and the truth is stranger than myth.

A fantastical, magical tale which slowly unwinds.

I recommend this DVD/film to anyone interested in selkies and celtic tales of wonder.

Rating: 4/5.

Incense Holders

I have never really liked the dark wood appearance of most incense holders, as I prefer lighter colours and, to be honest, the designs didn't appeal either.  I prefer the idea of keeping anything lit under protection, but given most incense boxes caused my incense sticks to burn out forcing me to relight them every so often, I tended not to use boxes at all.   I did buy one tower, but it was of dark wood and I just couldn't find a place to put it where it wouldn't stand out.

In Wicca Moon on Saturday, I stumbled across this tower incense burner.  Given I have a fascination with the heart shape and it was washed in a light green, I had to have it.   The bonus was when I got it home and started to use it: because the holes in the cut-out heart shapes are so large air easily circulates, so the sticks never burn out and the smoke escapes in lovely plumes filling the room with the aromas of the incense in no time at all.  It can burn four sticks at once and/or a single cone which allows for a greater intensity.

I am so happy with the stylish little purchase.  I realise it will not be to everyone's taste, but it suits me and my accommdations.  If green doesn't appeal, it also comes in white and blue.  I think I may purchase another one and have my own version of The Two Towers.

Thank You

Would just like to thank Edain for The Sunshine Award left for me at her blog and her kind comments on one of my previous posts.  I'm glad that my blog helps you, even in some small way.

Megalithic Tour 2010

Ballymeanoch IV

This is a photograph, the first of hundreds, which I took on my tour of the north-west of Scotland with Megalithic Tours. I hope to process all my photographs soon and publish an account of my experiences at the various sites here on these pages.

I truly enjoyed my time with the group and in Scotland and I hope to return many times to Scotland, and, gods willing, move there permanently. I feel so much more connected in Scotland, without even trying, and the pull is strong.

I made a few offerings as discreetly as I could, and I believe they were well received. Certainly, the tour went without a hitch, despite weather forecasts threatening the crossing to Lewis. I would have been disappointed indeed had I not seen Calanais again.

So, back in the south-east of England again, but aready thinking of next year's journey north.

A Wishlist

I have a wishlist of things I know I will never own, but still desire and I have to add this the list.  It's currently listed on ebay, but it is beyond my means.   It still doesn't stop me from wanting it though.

Description:

Culture:	Romano European
Date:	Late 1st Century BC
Size:	Diam @ 17mm
Description:	A rare ring which has survived in excellent condition with a small elegant band with oval bezel which describes a single sheath of wheat. For the assigned date for the ring it may have had associations with the Roman God of Crop Protection "Robigus". The patina is of blackened silver and has a gloss finish. Calcite deposits are seen within the inner band and behind the bezel which attest to the great age of the ring. In very Fine Condition - Ex French Private Collection.

White Dragon Magazine

Once upon a time, I used to read a magazine called White Dragon.  In fact, I was a subscriber, so I always received the magazine through the post at least one or two days days before it would arrive in the local shop.  Since Samhain 2009, however, I have not received the magazine and my emails have not been responded to.  I see that the forum is down, not that they were ever that active but, even so, it's another sign that the magazine is no more.

I have searched on the internet, in vain, trying to ascertain what happened, but, alas, all is silent.  If anyone does have any news about White Dragon, please let me know.  I especially want to here that it is to return.  I certainly hope that the website is not lost, as there are some interesting articles and reviews to be found there which indicate the kind of quality that will be lost if the magazine has indeed folded.

Consumerism

I gave into the consumer in me on Saturday and purchased a clay cup with a stag's head on it.  It's not perfect, as can be seen from the picture, but it's cute. 

I have no good reason for the purchase, as I am not going to use this item in rituals or any celebrations.  I intend to use it as a daily item,
and drink my cordials from it.  I like it; it's quirky. 

I just wish I could justify spending money on a want, rather than a need.