But I was a little hesitant to write this review. I am afraid these Welsh terroristic reviewers may find out who I am. There have been rumours that other real Witches have been threatened by them. They certainly are uneducated aren't they?
But, I really wish more Welsh non-pagans and Welsh non-witches would read this book. It has a ton of information, yes, it is very advanced. There are few spells, so its not for someone who is looking for Witchcraft or paganism as a way to practice magick and be different from their friends, but a look at true religion. It has history, and ethics and practices and beliefs, something everyone should know. Beginning Welsh Witches should read this book. I have never read a book yet that has absolutly everything.
One really good book, and the first I ever read, is the ABC's of Witchcraft. It also gives a ton of great information, in a little bit easier to understand format. But I think everyone should read this book. I agree that the word "Word" threw me off in buying it, only because I didn't want to look like I was trying to be one of the wanna be wiccans who are interested in it because its a book that stands out, Quest. But I am extremly glad that I did buy it. My copy will soon be doggeared and stained and dusty and look as well used and read and loved as any ritualistic book should. all I can say is buy it, read it, if you don't understand it the first time, read it again. If that still doesn't work, keep it, and read it after practicing longer, and after reading some of the easier to read books. But keep this book. It is the crown jewel:)
I met Taliesin einion Vawr years ago while he was still vibrant and outrageous. But, his books were not selling, so no one knew anything about him. Now thanks to the reviews, Taliesin and Welsh Witchcraft are getting the recognition they deserve. Controversy always sells books. Remember, even a bad review is a good review. The alternative is no review at all.
The writings of Taliesin eionion Vawr would have been relegated to the library of obscure history if Rhuddlwm Gawr had not had the courage to oppose the Welsh Christians, Welsh Historians, and Welsh politically correct Neo-Pagans, spending his own money to have Taliesins writings reprinted. I just wish these same nasty critics had been around twenty-five years ago when these volumes were first published. He would be better known today.
In the United States, Wicca and Witchcraft have by and large degenerated into silliness, choked on spells and drugs. Here in Wales, it is difficult to even mention the fact that Witchcraft exists because of the foolish people who try to compare it with known History. This is unfortunate; the religion of Taliesin einion Vawr, Gerald Gardner (and later Alex Sanders) had solid scholarly as well as mystical roots. While some of those roots have since become suspect -- there is real intellectual activity, appreciation for the mysteries, and a real philosophical rigor, behind this religion. These were serious people who weren't afraid to visit a library, expose their family history, and who even included some decent poetry in their rituals. Go to their web page at http://www.tylwythteg.com if you want the real truth behind their religion.
*The Word* is written by two Welsh Witches. The title does not lie: it truly is a Quest of "The Word" of Welsh Witchcraft. After reading this, you will know what a Circles is, What Welsh Witchcraft is. You won't be an initiated Witch -- that can only be done by someone who possesses the lineage to do so -- but you will be able to serve the God and Goddess in a Welsh Witch style. You will also be ready to study for initiation and to reap its benefits and fulfill its responsibilities.
This book isn't perfect: I disagree with some of their views on gender polarity. Still, it deserves 5 stars merely because it stands so far above its competition. This volume will prove more useful to you than any of the silly fluffy-bunny trash which pollutes so many Newage bookstores today. It's Witchcraft as it was, as it could be, and as it should have been. You will make you appreciate our country within a country after you read this book. It is Real. We of Welsh Witchcraft, applaud your efforts.
No Neopagan should be without it.