Celtic Fae Lore, Part 2: The Hidden Rules of the Otherworld

Days, or Years, or Decades, or Hours

time has no anchor here, it drifts

I am carried with its restless motion

turning and twisting as it all shifts

but I knew before I bargained that

they are clever when they give gifts

and I valued gingerbread over gold.

Imram- A Poem by M. Daimler (43-49)

This is Part Two of our 2-part series on Celtic Fae lore. In this article we will explore the etiquette and social code for dealing with the Fae.

Illustration from Faeries by Brian Froud and Alan Lee: a Glaistig

Learning the etiquette of dealing with the Fae may be one of the most important things to know. Finding balance in how you view the Fae, neither all good nor all bad.

In Fairies: a Guide to the Celtic Fair Folk, Morgan Daimler gives 7 basic guidelines in dealing with the Fae.

1. Start Small. Begin attempting to work with fae who are already inclined to like you and want to help you, like your house spirit.

2. Be Prepared to Pay Them. Offer something, like butter, cream, or honey when you ask for something from the fae.

3. Negotiate. The fae may ask for something you are unwilling to give. Don't be afraid to say no and negotiate to give something else like the aforementioned butter, cream, or honey as well as bread or silver.

4. Manners are Important. Be sure to say "please" and "may I" but do not say "thank you" that can be taken to mean that you are indebted to the Fae.

5. Keep it Clean. The fae prefer to keep things orderly and clean, if you want to deal with them, keep your home and, if you have it, property clean and tidy.

6. Don't Overestimate Yourself. Commanding the fae to do your bidding is an act of hubris and could come back to bite you. Treat them as you would another person, with respect and kindness.

7. Always Cover Your Butt. Know which protections work with the type of Fae you are dealing with; things may not turn out the way you had anticipated and having a backup plan is ideal.

Illustration from Faeries by Brian Froud and Alan Lee

References:

• Daimler, M. (2017). Fairies: A Guide to the Celtic Fair Folk. Moon Books.

• Froud, B., & Lee, A. (1978). Faeries. Abrams Books.