Hello Addicts,
When you think of little magical creatures, what probably comes to mind first are fairies, elves, and leprechauns, amongst other fae folk. There is another group in Spanish folklore that is comparable to them in all ways. For this week’s Nightmare Fuel, let’s look at the duende.
Some believe the name duende to have originated as a contraction of the duen de casa – master of the house. It is described as a humanoid like figure, but the appearance and living space differs depending on which subculture of duende you are talking about. Some, like the anjanas, live in caves or bodies of water, and help any who need it. Others, such as the dianos, take on the guise of horses, cows, donkeys, and even human babies. These are mischievous creatures who will frighten, disorient, and annoy. Other classes of duende can affect the weather, are incessant tricksters, or can be compassionate and hardworking. There are as many forms of duende as the European fae folk.
The duende isn’t just limited to Spain. Portugese legends describe them as small humanoids wearing large hats who use the music to lure young children into the forest. The Latin American versions are sometimes guardian spirits of the forest or live inside the wall who sometimes remove toes while trying to clip unkempt toenails. In the Philippines, the dwende live in caves, old trees, and insect mounds. They can be good or evil, love to play with children, and really hate to be offended. And, finally, the Mariana Islands see the duende as a helpful, shy creature or mischievous with a taste for misbehaving children.
While they can be helpful and benevolent beings, it’s probably best not to get on the bad side of these creatures. That bump you heard in the night might not be a ghost or poltergeist. The cat you saw knocking things over may or may not be what it appears. Your child could be talking to an imaginary friend, or it may be a duende. It’s always best to keep your mind open to the possibilities.
Until next time, Addicts.
D.J.
P.S. – If you liked this, then check out the Nightmare Fuel on the Kokkuri.
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