Words of the Witch

Ember Grant is a full time English professor and teaches writing, poetry, and literature. She has been writing for Llewellyn for more than twenty years and is the author of numerous articles and four books: Mythology for a Magical Life, The Book of Crystal Spells, The Second Book of Crystal Spells, and Magical Candle Crafting. Follow her on Instagram: @poetofthewoods

• ContentsExercises and Projects List—xiiiIntroduction—1Part 1: Historical BackgroundChapter 1—Spoken Magic: A Brief History—9Chapter 2—Written Magic: A Brief History—15Chapter 3—Amulets and Talismans: Popular Magic—23Part 2: The Practice of Spoken MagicChapter 4—Purpose and Style: What and How—33Chapter 5—Chanting, Part 1: Rhyme—45Chapter 6—Chanting, Part 2: Rhythm—53Chapter 7—The Act and Art of Speaking: Sacred Sound—63Chapter 8—Which Word: Diction and Tone—71Chapter 9—Creative Language and Composition: Pretty and Practical—81Chapter 10—Other Ways of Speaking: More Than Words—91Part 3: The Practice of Written MagicChapter 11—Making Your Mark: What to Write With and What to Write On—107Chapter 12—The Basics: Pencil, Pen, and Ink—113Chapter 13—Paper: There's Nothing Plain about It—123Chapter 14—Beyond Paper: Other Surfaces and Substances—135Chapter 15—Making It Personal: Body and Home—153Chapter 16—Names: Words and Identity—165Chapter 17—Words and Numbers: Numerology—171Chapter 18—Abracadabra and More: Magic Words, Codes, and Arrangements of Letters—179Chapter 19—Formal Poetic Verse: Guidelines for Structure—189Chapter 20—The Elements: Essential Correspondences—207Chapter 21—Practical Stuff: Checklists for Creating—213Conclusion: Choose (and Use) Your Words Wisely—217Appendix: Magical Alphabets—221Bibliography—225Index—235

Masterfully unveils the impact of language in magickal practices.' Mat Auryn, bestselling author of Psychic Witch. 'Smart, stylish, and sophisticated, The Words of the Witch is a clever guide for witches, pagans, and magicians of all levels and experience who wish to create their own magickal writings. Here you will learn how to successfully write spells, prayers, mantras, blessings, invocations, quarter calls and much more! Grant's background as an English and creative writing professor truly shines through as she teaches you some of the history behind spell writing, the power of the spoken and written word, as well as the mechanics of composition. Grant explains everything you'll need to know to accomplish your personal magickal writing goals; and she even includes some handson projects to get your creative juices flowing. If you want to advance your Craft, this is the book to read!' Ellen Dugan, author of Natural Witchery. 'This book will guide you to a more transformative practice by exploring the power of language. The reader will find lessons exploring magical writing, sound, poetry, chants and more. You'll find a collection of exercises and projects that are sure to delight your natural urge to express yourself magically. Although not a beginner book, it is very accessible and written with wisdom and warmth. Ember Grant has done it again, The Words of the Witch is a musthave for your witchcraft bookshelf!' Mickie Mueller, author of The Witch's Mirror and Llewellyn's Little Book of Halloween