Traditional Witchcraft for the Seashore by Melusine Draco.
Traditional Witchcraft for the Seashore by Melusine Draco is a great, short but sweet read that covers tidal and weather lore, customs and folklore of the sea, using materials connected to the sea and its shores, creating a sea witch garden, and it contains a few spells connected to the sea. I really like how this book covers the folklore of different areas, and includes a lot of correspondences of different sea-related items such as seaweed, driftwood etc. Melusine includes lots of alternatives for those not living by the sea, and contains some sources which is great. This small book contains a lot of topics and information, and is written in a casual style. The book (and all other books in this series) are UK based, which is fantastic for me and other UK-based practitioners.
This book is quite a short read, so is more of an introductory book, rather than a complete manual.
However, there are a few points in this book I personally disagree with. There are a few assumptive claims such as sea witches don’t shop in new age shops, witches wear combat clothing, and a true witch doesn’t refrain from using urine. These may be of the opinion of Melusine, however these aren’t true for everyone and reduces witches to stereotypes.
It is also mentioned that magic that affects other people is black magic, and the book continues to talk about black magic and magical rebound. The use of the term Black magic has racist origins and shouldn’t be used in today’s practices, this isn’t relatively new information either. Magical rebound is also a Wiccan concept, and Melusine presents this theory as fact for everyone, rather as personal experience or opinion. Hex and curse is used interchangeably. Also, Melusine mentions someone can attract negative energies due to one’s moral fibre – this is on par with Law of Attraction ideologies, which can be a harmful way of thinking.
I think as long as any potential reader is aware of a few problematic ideas that are commonly found in witchcraft and spiritual books (such as the use of black magic, cultural appropriation etc), this book is a good book for anyone wanting to learn about the practices and folklore relating to the sea.
Last reviewed: 14/03/23.
Disclaimer: Anything stated within these book reviews are based on the writer’s opinions, beliefs, and life experiences and should not be taken as universal truth. The writer’s opinion of said books are subject to change over time and reviews may be amended in future to reflect their most up-to-date opinion. It is generally recommended for you to read these books for yourself so you can form your own personal opinion.