The decent witch is a fictional character that has been depicted in various forms of literature and media. Often seen as a counter to the traditional wicked witch, the decent witch embodies positive qualities such as kindness, compassion, and a general desire to do good. Unlike the evil witch, who is typically associated with dark magic and sinister intentions, the decent witch uses her powers for the betterment of others. She may heal the sick, protect the innocent, or help those in need. The decent witch is often portrayed as someone who is in tune with nature and uses her magical abilities to promote harmony and balance. In many stories, the decent witch is an outcast or misunderstood by society.
Merry meet, and merry part, and merry meet again!
Seeing all three is a great way to see, in action, the way that the different approaches play out in their lives without the show being overly or overtly preachy about it. Meanwhile, you can read my other witchy books, follow my blog, take my workshops, subscribe to my Spellsletter, attend my ritual shows, and connect with my community on social media or in Poetry Witch Community, for all who identify as women.
In many stories, the decent witch is an outcast or misunderstood by society. This reflects the common theme of prejudice and the fear of the unknown. However, as the story progresses, the decent witch's true intentions are revealed, and she is embraced for her kindness and selflessness.
Are You a Good Witch or a Bad Witch? (FAQ)
The word "witch" is loaded with connotations, misunderstandings, and anxieties for many people, and since I started using it in public about a decade ago, I have gotten a lot of questions about it. Here are some of the most common.
Why do you call yourself the poetry witch?
I am a spiritual poet whose spirituality is grounded in the earth and in female power. My primary magickal tools are skill in the craft of shaping words into talismans, charms, and spells, and a calling to perform my words in ritual and for healing.
Are you a witch in real life too?
Yes. I was born on Halloween and have always felt connected spiritually to the earth and to other realities. Since I met my first witch in 1990, I have consciously studied and practiced earth-centered witchcraft alone and with others, using herbs, crystals, symbols, colors, and divination tools in addition to my poetry witch tools of words, chanting, movement, and ritual.
The word "witch" will turn people off. Why not use another word?
I am aware of this, which is why I waited 20 years and considered numerous alternative words before coming out of the broom closet in my 2010 blog American Witch. I made my decision because no other word embodies the combination of reclaimed feminine energy, magic, and power that I needed to express. Since then, I've noticed that a new generation of feminist witches has been making the same choice, and for similar reasons.
Are you a Wiccan?
No, not really. I did start out as a Wiccan, but I find that tradition is too limited, too prescriptive, and too sexist in its roots. I now consider myself a practitioner of folk witchcraft, a broader category that links my beliefs and practices with those of witches across many centuries and continents.
What are those beliefs and practices?
As a witch, I find sacred meaning in the cycles of life and death and the seasons. I believe everything in nature has a spiritual aspect, including our bodies. I like to use spells and ceremonies, some formal and some spontaneous, to shape my own growth and support those I love. I do my best to follow the Witches' Creed: “If it harms no-one, do what you will.”
Do you make curses?
No. All my spells and magick have the intention for the highest good of all. Sometimes this may involve "binding" someone from doing harm, but only after I have cleared out personal anger. Magic for me is like prayer, and I would never use it out of anger or violence.
Can men be witches too?
Yes. My personal acronym for W.I.T.C.H. is “Women in Touch Coming Home," because I feel witchcraft is connected intimately with feminism and matriculture and has crucial gifts to offer those of us who identify as women. But I also know several male witches, and today’s witchcraft can help bring us home, no matter what our gender, to honor the Divine Feminine inside and around us.
Are you part of a coven?
I have been part of many wonderful women's circles and covens (the difference is that the circles provide spiritual support, while the covens actively make magic together). Right now, my primary spiritual community is my online home Poetry Witch Community, open to all who identify as women, at poetrywitch.com. I also consider the people who participate in my Magic of Rhythmically Writing retreats and workshops, and who attend my readings and poetry witch ritual performances, to be part of my spiritual community.
How can I learn more?
I am currently finishing two books that if all goes well will be published soon and will fully share the fruits of my lifelong witchly journey. Meanwhile, you can read my other witchy books, follow my blog, take my workshops, subscribe to my Spellsletter, attend my ritual shows, and connect with my community on social media (or in Poetry Witch Community, for all who identify as women). And you can check out other witches: I'd recommend Starhawk and any of the younger generation of witches interviewed on Pam Grossman's podcast, The Witch Wave.
Merry meet, and merry part, and merry meet again!
What are those beliefs and practices?
The decent witch is often shown as a mentor or guide to other characters, offering wisdom and guidance in their journeys. She serves as a symbol of hope and courage for those who may be facing their own struggles. In recent years, the portrayal of witches in popular culture has shifted towards a more positive and empowering view. The decent witch is now often seen as a strong and independent woman who uses her abilities to stand up against injustice and fight for what is right. Overall, the depiction of the decent witch serves to challenge stereotypes and showcase the power of compassion and goodness. She reminds us that even in a world filled with darkness, there is always room for kindness and the potential for redemption..
Reviews for "How to Recognize a Decent Witch: Traits and Characteristics"
1. Michelle - 2/5 stars - I was really disappointed with "The Decent Witch". The plot was all over the place and the characters were shallow and uninteresting. I found it hard to connect with any of them and their struggles. The dialogue felt forced and the pacing was slow. Overall, the whole story just didn't grab my attention and I was left feeling underwhelmed.
2. Jason - 1/5 stars - "The Decent Witch" was a complete waste of time. The story was predictable and lacked originality. The writing was amateurish and filled with cliches. I couldn't make it past the first few chapters because the main character was so unlikable and the plot was going nowhere. I wouldn't recommend this book to anyone looking for an engaging and well-written story.
3. Amanda - 2/5 stars - I had high hopes for "The Decent Witch", but unfortunately, it fell short for me. The concept of a witch trying to find her place in the world sounded intriguing, but the execution was lacking. The pacing was slow, and the story felt disjointed. The character development was weak, and the relationships between the characters felt forced. The author had some interesting ideas, but the overall execution left me unsatisfied.
4. Carlos - 1/5 stars - I found "The Decent Witch" to be incredibly boring. The plot was uneventful, and it felt like nothing truly happened throughout the book. The characters were bland and lacked depth, making it hard for me to care about their journey. The writing style was monotonous and lacking in emotion. Overall, I was left feeling uninterested and unengaged while reading this book.
5. Emily - 2/5 stars - "The Decent Witch" was a letdown for me. The story lacked originality and felt like a generic witchy romance. The characters were flat and unrelatable, and I found it difficult to invest in their struggles. The pacing was inconsistent, with some parts dragging on and others feeling rushed. Overall, I was hoping for a more engaging and captivating read, but unfortunately, this book didn't deliver.