Remedies

by Julia Blackburn

For loneliness

observe a snail
also that little spider called a harvester
both of them know loneliness very well.

(JB)

Original medieval remedies mix with new inventions of Julia’s own in a collection of charms for modern life.

What does it mean when a butterfly lands on your hand? How might you cope with loneliness, deal with fear, or become closer to a lover?

Julia writes: ‘The sixth-century physician Alexander of Tralles said that his patients – like besieged cities – must be defended by anything that gave them the courage to go on living. He found that images, amulets and all sorts of strange remedies seemed to help, even though there was no rational reason for this to be so.’

Remedies addresses our inner, psychological state. Reading the collection offers a set of poetic keys intended for unlocking the mysterious, subtle space between mind and body.

Publisher: Hazel Press