Really looking forward to this book & I'm glad you're leaning more into your academic background for this specific topic. As you say, most modern witchcraft books read like self-help and they definitely don't cater to people who don't intend to become a witch, nor witches who've been at this for a while. Glad I'll have a book to recommend to non-practotioners instead of having to throw a stack of books by folklorists, anthropologists and ethnographers at them 😌😂
Sounds like the manner in which you're writing this book is brilliant and much needed on the shelves. I agree with you, lean into the drier, academic tone, and screw the naysayers and misogynists. I look forward to reading your new book! Best wishes!
The academic level and nuance is why I like your thoughts and writing!!! Please dont dumb it down or generalise it down. Enough milktoast in the world.
Your book sounds fascinating. I’m glad we’ll have a work like that out there. Definitely looking forward to it! I also miss when the internet was fun. That was the internet I learned about Wicca from.
I'm so glad and grateful I've began to study the Art from your book. You are W O N D E R F U L! Joy and prosperity to you and greetings from Italy 💜🎃💚🕯️🦌
I have to admit, I am quickly becoming addicted to this intellectual, yet witty and relatable dialog. If only I had found people like yourself all those years ago when I was desperately searching the Witch and Pagan community, before I wore out, gave in, and walked away from Wicca and Witchcraft (late 90s). It is funny though, how we may leave these things for literally 20+ yrs and yet it never fully leaves our system, instead hibernating, where it only takes a few, well- placed events and conversations to start poking at the back of those gray cells. Good luck with the book. I have little doubt I will buy and read it. :)
This is such a great premise for making a video: sad and existential in your car. I love it. I really resent the pressure of trying to constantly be producing content too. I feel like some of the worst things I write or create are those done under pressure. Also I'm looking forward to reading your upcoming Witchcraft for your Mom book.
Totally here for "feelings in a strange parking lot"! This book sounds really fascinating and I'm definitely interested in reading it. I relate to the "internet used to be more fun" feeling. I feel like there used to be more actual conversation, interaction, and a desire to get to know people. Now, discourse seems dominated by arguing instead of curiosity and the act of trying to sell stuff. Anyways, thanks for this video! It was lovely to see your face. 💜✨
Thank you, Thorn! I’ve been delving into both of your books recently, (particularly “Traditional Wicca”) and just mega appreciate your down-to-earth approach regarding these important topics. Definitely looking forward to your latest book! Totally agree with everything you’ve shared here. I’m all for academic “tones”, especially from women. Blessed be!
I'm looking forward to this book. The context of witchcraft and Wicca, especially, as it's something I think about all the time in regard to how people come to identify as a witch or practice witchcraft. Thank you for sharing your car thoughts as a teaser.
Have both books & Loved them! Really looking forward to this new subject matter. I come from a long line of practitioners. However, over the centuries they stopped refiring to their practices as Witchcraft for a number of reasons. In turn day to day practices have dwindled or been lost to time. This will help people understand the over all picture. Can't Wait!!!!!
I feel there really is a market for academic texts in this arena that are written by women, but the reach just isn't there because publishers are reluctant. I really hope you'll be the one to push that forward. Keeping the text short is a great strategy. I'd like to see more texts that are like simple field guides vs. the more anecdotal, self-help perspective, like what you described. There's nothing wrong with that, but there's something to be said for well-researched information that is practical, creatively delivered, and easily assimilated. Also, I'd be lying if I said that "Witchcraft for Your Mom" isn't the best title ever. I kinda hope that stays. A balanced blend of academics and humor is really, really needed.
Been feeling this a lot too, not only as a reformed ‘creator’, but also as a frustrated witch. There’s more ‘witchy’ books and homewares in the general sphere than in any time in my lifetime, yet they are overwhelmingly infantilising and shallow. Lots of crystals for love and beauty, oracle instead of tarot etc. Not that there isn’t a place for that, just seems there’s so much witchcraft dessert and no meat. I for one cannot WAIT to read an academic book on witchcraft!
I'm just curious - why the objection to 'oracles instead of tarot'? Though you qualify that oracles have 'a place', you also suggest that they are 'shallow' and 'dessert'.
And "in a car having feelings" + maniacal laugh actually caused a moment of terror. Very nice. Wasn't expecting that. Now I don't need that second coffee.
Hey Thorne, just picked up your first book at a local shop. Haven't gotten far, but I was wondering. If it could be proven without a shadow of a doubt that witchcraft had no effect on the world around us (other than the mental health benefits that can be gained through ritual, connection to nature, etc.), would you still practice it? And I was also curious as to what your definition of 'magic' is. If you delve into that later on in the book I apologize for jumping the gun.
I think there's a place for a more academic, critical approach to "Witchcraft for your mom" and there's also a place for a lighthearted, sassy book that looks at the same topic. I'd love to see multiple versions of both on the market eventually.
I love this- after reading one of your books, I’m excited to read more from you, especially as it is more (as in increased in) academically/practically toned.
everything you said abt being a "content creator" and algorithms resonates so much! that's exactly why I could never be a content creator and why I'd struggle to market anything myself. I HATE the notion that we have to be saying something all the time, and I HATE feeling like all someone is doing is trying to sell you something. I really wish social media etc would just let people be people. it truly feels like social media has lost the social part. also yes beta readers are a thing in fiction writing. they aren't editors but they do give feedback to let you know if something felt boring and/or if they're getting the intended feel or message of the book etc like that
I've read The Witch's Path and I have your Wicca book on my list even though 1) I'm not a Wiccan and 2) I'm a solo practitioner. I'll get the new one too once it's available and then pass it to my husband so he has a better understanding of this whole world.
Yeah, the Wicca book is pretty niche, but I hope it at least gives a more accurate portrayal of what trad Wiccans are up to for folks who might encounter us! 🤪
@@drawingKenaz I'm sure it does! I really liked what you explained about your own experience with Wicca in the Witch's Path and I actually went down a rabbit hole and I'm reading Wicca and Living Wicca by Scott Cunningham now. It's still not my cup of tea, but I respect it and there's a lot to learn from it. So thanks for expanding my horizons 😉
Lean in to the academic, so tired of “fluffy bunny” approach to the subject of witchcraft/wicca. I have been practicing Wicca/witchcraft for over 30 years, it’s not all love spells and controlling things. It’s a lifestyle. Thank you for undertaking this task. BTW, first time that I’ve seen you pop up and you have a new follower/subscriber and I look forward into diving into your channel. It will be nice to have something to point others to in order to debunk some of the myths and assumptions of what being a “modern witch” includes and excludes. To have such a resource in a more serious, less … sensationalist point of view will be such a welcome breath of fresh air. Blessings to you, and hoping you will be able to quit a job or two. (That would make one of us. Lol). Happy “holidays”.😊
Try to do a book on rare info on witches like Monique Wilson, Eleanor Bone, Cecil Williamson etc. try to source rare press photos to include. I like how you have regard for the Huson book. Keep up the good work.
I'm very excited for your book! Also i missed you, so its good to see you. I also feel similarly about not posting when you have nothing to say. No need to add more content for the sake of content.
Thank you. I am so tired of all the books being about “You can’t practice Witchcraft till you heal all your emotional wounds!” Bullshit. It is like they are all self help books anymore. I happen to like my crazy self and don’t really want to heal it cause that’s what makes me me. I like the books who give historical facts and explains things. Raven Grimassi was awesome at telling you why we did this. And what the meaning of it was. Now days it is just rehash a bunch of crap that is out there and oh my god all those awful Tik Tok videos. Wow. Most of which are so miss leading. I am looking forward to this new book. I own both of your other books and am so glad I have them. By the way I love your hair. Keep up the good work. I am also glad to see you back in your car in random places.
The book sounds like what i need and want! Haha, sounds like it's gonna be a book I would've needed when first starting out, even from that standpoint of wanting to be a Witch. I lean more to academic books on religion where I can, I have gotten a lot more out of them, and progress in my practice from those types of books. Looking forward to it!
Have you been told how much you look like Drew Barrymore? I had to mention it. 😊 Please post more often if possible. I enjoy listening to your content.
How about "An Outsider's Guide to Witchcraft: A Book to Give to Your Mom" ? And, what you're describing doesn't sound like a problem unique to women. In Academia, they expect everyone to write in a tone that sounds logical and 'authoritative' - even if though it's often only the appearance of it. For example, they'll expect one to right in passive voice because it sounds like objectivity even though that's just an illusion. For a general audience they want active voice because it's more engaging and they'll want personal anecdotes and such. I think you should look for some happy medium.
1:24 "I feel like I don't have anything to say" - Are you looking for any topics? Because I have had numerous ideas come to mind on which I'd like to hear your opinion but I figured you're too busy.
You're not being pushed to create content for the algorithm; you're being pushed to create content because that increases the profit margins of the social media companies.
Very excited for the book because something like that really IS missing from the market. And I agree about how the internet used to be fun. 🥲 I started UA-cam again and still trying to figure out what exactly I want to do with my content now that I'm back. Love these talky-talk videos of yours!
![Writing Vlog: A Strong End to the Year? [CC]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/-bOsamSLOMA/mqdefault.jpg)
![Writing Vlog: A Strong End to the Year? [CC]](/img/tr.png)
Thorn: "Get in losers. We're going to go park in a parking lot and get existential!"
No literally 💙
The Witch Next Door: A Critical Guide to Wicca and Witchcraft by Thorn Mooney
Really looking forward to this book & I'm glad you're leaning more into your academic background for this specific topic. As you say, most modern witchcraft books read like self-help and they definitely don't cater to people who don't intend to become a witch, nor witches who've been at this for a while. Glad I'll have a book to recommend to non-practotioners instead of having to throw a stack of books by folklorists, anthropologists and ethnographers at them 😌😂
Sounds like the manner in which you're writing this book is brilliant and much needed on the shelves. I agree with you, lean into the drier, academic tone, and screw the naysayers and misogynists. I look forward to reading your new book! Best wishes!
The academic level and nuance is why I like your thoughts and writing!!! Please dont dumb it down or generalise it down. Enough milktoast in the world.
Your book sounds fascinating. I’m glad we’ll have a work like that out there. Definitely looking forward to it!
I also miss when the internet was fun. That was the internet I learned about Wicca from.
I'm so glad and grateful I've began to study the Art from your book. You are W O N D E R F U L! Joy and prosperity to you and greetings from Italy 💜🎃💚🕯️🦌
Thank you so much! That's so kind, and I'm glad I've been helpful!
I have to admit, I am quickly becoming addicted to this intellectual, yet witty and relatable dialog. If only I had found people like yourself all those years ago when I was desperately searching the Witch and Pagan community, before I wore out, gave in, and walked away from Wicca and Witchcraft (late 90s). It is funny though, how we may leave these things for literally 20+ yrs and yet it never fully leaves our system, instead hibernating, where it only takes a few, well- placed events and conversations to start poking at the back of those gray cells. Good luck with the book. I have little doubt I will buy and read it. :)
That’s very kind! I’m glad you’re enjoying my posts! I hope your current foray back into Craft things is enjoyable and easy.
This is such a great premise for making a video: sad and existential in your car. I love it. I really resent the pressure of trying to constantly be producing content too. I feel like some of the worst things I write or create are those done under pressure. Also I'm looking forward to reading your upcoming Witchcraft for your Mom book.
I dont think shes sad...
@@TemperanceLibraRising 0:22, Thorn made a joke about this. I don't think OP was actually saying they thought she was sad.
Totally here for "feelings in a strange parking lot"! This book sounds really fascinating and I'm definitely interested in reading it.
I relate to the "internet used to be more fun" feeling. I feel like there used to be more actual conversation, interaction, and a desire to get to know people. Now, discourse seems dominated by arguing instead of curiosity and the act of trying to sell stuff.
Anyways, thanks for this video! It was lovely to see your face. 💜✨
The “Wild West” days of the Internet …..those memories….
Thank you, Thorn!
I’ve been delving into both of your books recently, (particularly “Traditional Wicca”) and just mega appreciate your down-to-earth approach regarding these important topics. Definitely looking forward to your latest book! Totally agree with everything you’ve shared here. I’m all for academic “tones”, especially from women. Blessed be!
I'm looking forward to this book. The context of witchcraft and Wicca, especially, as it's something I think about all the time in regard to how people come to identify as a witch or practice witchcraft. Thank you for sharing your car thoughts as a teaser.
Your hair is beautiful.I agree with your friend. I was happy to see a car feels.
Thank you! 💙
Have both books & Loved them! Really looking forward to this new subject matter. I come from a long line of practitioners. However, over the centuries they stopped refiring to their practices as Witchcraft for a number of reasons. In turn day to day practices have dwindled or been lost to time. This will help people understand the over all picture.
Can't Wait!!!!!
I feel there really is a market for academic texts in this arena that are written by women, but the reach just isn't there because publishers are reluctant. I really hope you'll be the one to push that forward.
Keeping the text short is a great strategy. I'd like to see more texts that are like simple field guides vs. the more anecdotal, self-help perspective, like what you described. There's nothing wrong with that, but there's something to be said for well-researched information that is practical, creatively delivered, and easily assimilated.
Also, I'd be lying if I said that "Witchcraft for Your Mom" isn't the best title ever. I kinda hope that stays. A balanced blend of academics and humor is really, really needed.
Hahaha my own mom would be horrified XD
Been feeling this a lot too, not only as a reformed ‘creator’, but also as a frustrated witch. There’s more ‘witchy’ books and homewares in the general sphere than in any time in my lifetime, yet they are overwhelmingly infantilising and shallow. Lots of crystals for love and beauty, oracle instead of tarot etc. Not that there isn’t a place for that, just seems there’s so much witchcraft dessert and no meat. I for one cannot WAIT to read an academic book on witchcraft!
I'm just curious - why the objection to 'oracles instead of tarot'? Though you qualify that oracles have 'a place', you also suggest that they are 'shallow' and 'dessert'.
Love these updates. And looking forward to the book!
Happy Holidays!
Hope you are feeling better & I can't wait for your book. ❤
And "in a car having feelings" + maniacal laugh actually caused a moment of terror. Very nice. Wasn't expecting that. Now I don't need that second coffee.
Sounds like the book that I’ve been waiting for ❤
This new book sounds interesting. I look forward to reading it.
Thank you for telling us what you're up to. I am personally very interested to read the new book.
"Including mine." Gotta admire your willingness to apply your own criticism to yourself.
Is "It's too academic and dry." the academic equivalent of "Smile more."????
*Gasp* You're right!
I’m looking forward to the new book. It sounds like an interesting read.
Hey Thorne, just picked up your first book at a local shop. Haven't gotten far, but I was wondering. If it could be proven without a shadow of a doubt that witchcraft had no effect on the world around us (other than the mental health benefits that can be gained through ritual, connection to nature, etc.), would you still practice it? And I was also curious as to what your definition of 'magic' is. If you delve into that later on in the book I apologize for jumping the gun.
I reeeeeally want to read your new book. I'm waiting for it 😊👍🏽🔥💯
I think there's a place for a more academic, critical approach to "Witchcraft for your mom" and there's also a place for a lighthearted, sassy book that looks at the same topic. I'd love to see multiple versions of both on the market eventually.
I love this- after reading one of your books, I’m excited to read more from you, especially as it is more (as in increased in) academically/practically toned.
everything you said abt being a "content creator" and algorithms resonates so much! that's exactly why I could never be a content creator and why I'd struggle to market anything myself. I HATE the notion that we have to be saying something all the time, and I HATE feeling like all someone is doing is trying to sell you something. I really wish social media etc would just let people be people. it truly feels like social media has lost the social part.
also yes beta readers are a thing in fiction writing. they aren't editors but they do give feedback to let you know if something felt boring and/or if they're getting the intended feel or message of the book etc like that
and I can't wait to read your new book!
This would make a great audiobook. I'd love to listen to you explain this whole concept.
Great video!😁
I can’t wait for the new book!
I've read The Witch's Path and I have your Wicca book on my list even though 1) I'm not a Wiccan and 2) I'm a solo practitioner. I'll get the new one too once it's available and then pass it to my husband so he has a better understanding of this whole world.
Yeah, the Wicca book is pretty niche, but I hope it at least gives a more accurate portrayal of what trad Wiccans are up to for folks who might encounter us! 🤪
@@drawingKenaz I'm sure it does! I really liked what you explained about your own experience with Wicca in the Witch's Path and I actually went down a rabbit hole and I'm reading Wicca and Living Wicca by Scott Cunningham now.
It's still not my cup of tea, but I respect it and there's a lot to learn from it. So thanks for expanding my horizons 😉
Great to see you, looking forward to the book.
What an intro! :) so funny!
Lean in to the academic, so tired of “fluffy bunny” approach to the subject of witchcraft/wicca. I have been practicing Wicca/witchcraft for over 30 years, it’s not all love spells and controlling things. It’s a lifestyle. Thank you for undertaking this task. BTW, first time that I’ve seen you pop up and you have a new follower/subscriber and I look forward into diving into your channel. It will be nice to have something to point others to in order to debunk some of the myths and assumptions of what being a “modern witch” includes and excludes. To have such a resource in a more serious, less … sensationalist point of view will be such a welcome breath of fresh air. Blessings to you, and hoping you will be able to quit a job or two. (That would make one of us. Lol). Happy “holidays”.😊
Try to do a book on rare info on witches like Monique Wilson, Eleanor Bone, Cecil Williamson etc. try to source rare press photos to include. I like how you have regard for the Huson book. Keep up the good work.
Thanks for sharing Thorn! I’m looking forward to reading this next book. Happy Thanksgiving!
You too!
I'm very excited for your book! Also i missed you, so its good to see you. I also feel similarly about not posting when you have nothing to say. No need to add more content for the sake of content.
I look forward to reading and citing this book. Let me know if you ever need reviewers.
I'm sorry I have to wait, but I'm looking forward to buying this new book. :-)
I hope folks like it! I've got a bit more to write, and then off it goes!
I just bought the volumes of the Library of Esoterica from Taschen. Have you read them yet and do you like them?
Thank you. I am so tired of all the books being about “You can’t practice Witchcraft till you heal all your emotional wounds!” Bullshit. It is like they are all self help books anymore. I happen to like my crazy self and don’t really want to heal it cause that’s what makes me me. I like the books who give historical facts and explains things. Raven Grimassi was awesome at telling you why we did this. And what the meaning of it was. Now days it is just rehash a bunch of crap that is out there and oh my god all those awful Tik Tok videos. Wow. Most of which are so miss leading. I am looking forward to this new book. I own both of your other books and am so glad I have them. By the way I love your hair. Keep up the good work. I am also glad to see you back in your car in random places.
Thank you!
The book sounds like what i need and want! Haha, sounds like it's gonna be a book I would've needed when first starting out, even from that standpoint of wanting to be a Witch. I lean more to academic books on religion where I can, I have gotten a lot more out of them, and progress in my practice from those types of books. Looking forward to it!
I hope you'll like it! I can't wait to share it!
Have you been told how much you look like Drew Barrymore? I had to mention it. 😊 Please post more often if possible. I enjoy listening to your content.
Thank you! For both comments!
How about "An Outsider's Guide to Witchcraft: A Book to Give to Your Mom" ?
And, what you're describing doesn't sound like a problem unique to women. In Academia, they expect everyone to write in a tone that sounds logical and 'authoritative' - even if though it's often only the appearance of it. For example, they'll expect one to right in passive voice because it sounds like objectivity even though that's just an illusion. For a general audience they want active voice because it's more engaging and they'll want personal anecdotes and such. I think you should look for some happy medium.
1:24 "I feel like I don't have anything to say" - Are you looking for any topics? Because I have had numerous ideas come to mind on which I'd like to hear your opinion but I figured you're too busy.
You're not being pushed to create content for the algorithm; you're being pushed to create content because that increases the profit margins of the social media companies.
Yeah, that too LOL. Either way it sucks.
Very excited for the book because something like that really IS missing from the market. And I agree about how the internet used to be fun. 🥲 I started UA-cam again and still trying to figure out what exactly I want to do with my content now that I'm back. Love these talky-talk videos of yours!
So happy to see you coming back! 💙