Non-Humans R Us Newsletters

Creatures From Around the World

In my last Newsletter, I discussed how there were were-creatures all over the world- the same is true for other creatures. Now, in North America, most of us are of Anglo-Saxon/Norman descent, or of other European-type stock, and thus we tend to tell stories that originated from them, like stories about dwarves, elves, giants, werewolves, and other such creatures. And of course, there’s the various Greek and Roman stories involving creatures like the Minotaur, centaurs, hydras, and so on. At one point or another, we’ve all heard or read various stories that are Egyptian, Greek, Roman, Celtic, Viking, or others from those areas.

However, there exists a whole range of stories from other parts of the world. As I mentioned in the last newsletter about the were-polar bears in Inuit stories, and the were-sharks in Philippines stories, you’ll find creatures all over. Sometimes though, it takes a bit of looking to find them. Research the various myths and religions, and you’ll find inspiration from them.

For instance, I’m currently working on a story that has a rakshasa, a creature found commonly in Hindu and Buddhist stories, as one of its heroes. So, I’ve been doing some research- tiger-like, masters of illusions, like to portray themselves as nobility when in human guise, cannibalistic, and with a few exceptions, normally evil beings. Obviously, if a rakshasa is to be a hero, he can’t be evil, or cannibalistic. In my story, I have portrayed him as an exiled prince, one currently hunting evil monsters in Europe. However, he still casts illusions about himself when in towns, and he is strong and agile- not to mention wields a curved sword.

So, the next time you’re stuck in a rut, and can’t write a story about your usual creatures, reach across national boundaries, and cultural boundaries, and talk with someone who grew up on stories different from the ones you did. For instance, let’s say you’re from the state of New York, reach out to someone in Queensland Australia. That person will probably tell you about the bunyip- a creature that is highly feared among the natives of the Australian continent, as it hides along the waterways, preying on the unsuspecting- certainly not a bunny rabbit. Of course, he might be in the same boat you are- so share the story about that werewolf that prowls along Route 62- and attacks stalled motorists, leaving only the car, and a trail of blood, that suddenly stops, for searchers to find. (Don’t worry, there’s no werewolves along Route 62, with the exception of myself. . Of course, I can’t say the same about other roads- like the Beast of Bray Road, from Elkhorn Wisconsin – that one’s a little scary.)