Customer Reviews

Patchwork of Magic: Living in a Pagan World

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We all need a smile in our lives. Pagans are no exception. And if we smile while contemplating who we are, so much the better.

"Patchwork of Magic" explores the many paths of Paganism in Britain, as seen through the eyes of a very British lady. Julia Day is an English writer, and if you are familiar with the dryness of true British humor and a fan of such, you will find this look at the various paths within paganism a wonderful and refreshing study.

I was a big fan of Sybil Leek. I remember the pictures of her walking about with a staff and those shoes that were, to my American eyes, hiking boots. How I laughed when Ms. Day made reference to Traditional Witches and their "boots". Tongue in cheek, she analyzes the different paths, with a touch of dry humor, which make up the crazy patchwork quilt of the Pagan movement.

But what I really loved was her comparison of the different systems of paganism. The discussion on festivals, and where they came from and how they have evolved was fascinating. She does her research and comes up with some really interesting facts and even more interesting conclusions. There are many such tidbits of knowledge here, about Sacred Space, incense and even being Coven Leader.

The following is an example of the gems to be found in the chapter entitled "Life's Little Wisdoms"; "Do not strew your circle with cat mint if there are likely to be cats in the vicinity. The devastation that one or more ecstatic cats can wreak on a circle has to be seen to be believed!"

Her perspective on using magic in everyday life (driving, housework etc.) may have a British spin but can definitely translate to everyone else.

But, most importantly, this book is a primer of common sense. The "Thirteen Things to Help Your Development" is a great section that has some very good and practical ways to improve your mind, body and spirit. You don't have to be British to understand these basic principals.

Ms. Day works practical values across all the various paths within Paganism, things that we all have in common that we can and should develop. Respect for ourselves, for others, tolerance for everyone, ego checks and self esteem boosters, all worked into a format that gives us wisdom touched with humor, a good combination for any book. boudica

At first glance the book is a humorous take on the veritable patchwork of Pagan types from the author's personal perspective, but there is a great deal of wisdom hidden between the humorous bits. While covering various stereotypes, the author concedes that "there are as many types of Pagan as there are Pagans, in fact, more, because people change their minds".

A theme of personal choice and change is maintained throughout. Early on the book states "You have to decide what is right for you and know it changes" and towards the end the book states "A Pagan life suggests movement, development and change" and equates life to a "continual quest".

Julia Day is a member of a Celtic Tradition (which happens to be one of the traditions that I am naturally drawn to), and also seems to identify with what she calls "Progressive Wicca" which as I understand it from her description incorporates less dogma and greater personal customisation of one's path and practices.

I found the simple way that the book describes possible beliefs about deity extremely helpful: "The Divine is expressed through Nature" and "Divinity is expressed in both female and male forms". Some things clicked into place while I was reading the book and I have a much better understanding of Pagan theistic beliefs now.

The book does discuss and provide some personal tips about Pagan practices, but its strength lies in its emphasis throughout on simplicity, common sense and maintaining a healthy skepticism regarding Pagan living. Pagan Sense and Sensibility would make a good alternative title.

I wanted to share one gem of wisdom here and settled on this one (from the section Thirteen things to help your development, Give and Take):

"There are Earth healing rites and all sorts of magical rites which can be held, but you are in a physical body. You can do something physical too! If you pick up a piece of litter, you are changing the world just as much as if you enacted a ritual to bring about change. Magic, remember is about change!...Give love. You will gain far more. Learn about exchange. You do not take, you exchange."

I would definitely recommend this book to beginner Pagans or anyone curious about Paganism. Veteran Pagans might not find the book meaty enough and might be offended if they are sensitive and their stereotype is mentioned in the book. I liked the book so much that I ordered Julia Day's next book Between Earth and Sky published in 1999.

If you want to learn more about the author, there is a comprehensive interview with her in The Author's Corner of The Wiccan/Pagan Times.