Nice gothy findings

A quick post just to share with you 2 cute things that I've bought yesterday in a book shop:

A nice edition of Emily Bronte's Wuthering Heights and a puzzle of Victoria Frances! :-) the book was the last left on the shelf and I immediately picked it up as soon as I saw it,of course! The only con is that's in italian and not in English..I liked the fact that it has an hard cover in warm white and a contrast color in blue.

A little break

Hello Everyone! I Just wanted to inform you that my pc is currently broken that's why I haven't been posting for a while..!
Hopefully after Easter I will have a pc again! Meanwhile I'm working on a new interview, (god bless these new technological phones) and will post it soon! So keep in touch ;)


Have a good spring break everyone and stay Gothic!! ;-)

Ciao

Melissa dark <3 p="">

The Occult

The occult (from the Latin word occultus "clandestine, hidden, secret") is "knowledge of the hidden". In common English usage, occult refers to "knowledge of the paranormal", as opposed to "knowledge of the measurable", usually referred to as science. The term is sometimes taken to mean knowledge that "is meant only for certain people" or that "must be kept hidden", but for most practising occultists it is simply the study of a deeper spiritual reality that extends beyond pure reason and the physical sciences. The terms esoteric and arcane have very similar meanings, and in most contexts the three terms are interchangeable.

It also describes a number of magical organizations or orders, the teachings and practices taught by them, and to a large body of current and historical literature and spiritual philosophy related to this subject.

Occultism is the study of occult practices, including (but not limited to) magic, alchemy, extra-sensory perception, astrology, spiritualism, and divination. Interpretation of occultism and its concepts can be found in the belief structures of philosophies and religions such as Gnosticism, Hermeticism, Theosophy, Wicca, Thelema, Satanism, and neopaganism.

"During the Victorian era and the early 20th century, occultism swept across America and Europe. The movement centered on the belief that life continues after death, and that spirits can be contacted via mediums. During this time, many people came forward claiming they had psychokinetic powers and went to great lengths to prove it, either by photography or performance art. Seances, levitation, and spirit writing became embedded in the imagination of the public.

The movement began to decline as many prominent investigators, such as The Society of Psychical Research, began to debunk many cases in which paranormal activity was alleged. The following photos show a fascinating glimpse into a bizarre time in human history.

COLIN EVANS PERFORMING A LEVITATION:

SEANCE IN BERLIN (1930′S):

PHOTOS OF A SEANCE (1940):

TELEPATHIC MANIFESTATION:

SEANCE CONDUCTED BY EUSAPIA PALLADINO (1898):

SEANCES CONDUCTED BY MINA CRANDON:

PHOTO OF A SPIRIT MEDIUM (1923):

Original post at: theghostdiaries.com "

Black Death and the Plague Doctors

I've seen the mask in the picture below is very popular among photosets of Goth or Steampunk models, but does any of you know its origin and why it has a beak? In this post you will find information about the macabre story behind these masks!

The beak shaped mask was worn by plague doctors. They were special medical physicians who treated those who had the plague. They were specifically hired by towns that had many plague victims in times of plague epidemics. Since the city was paying their salary, they treated everyone: both the rich and the poor. They were not normally professionally trained experienced physicians or surgeons, and often were second-rate doctors not able to otherwise run a successful medical business or young physicians trying to establish themselves.

Plague doctors by their covenant treated plague patients and were known as municipal or "community plague doctors", whereas "general practitioners" were separate doctors and both might be in the same European city or town at the same time. In France and the Netherlands plague doctors often lacked medical training and were referred to as "empirics". In one case a plague doctor had been a fruit salesman before his employment as a physician.

Plague doctors served as public servants during times of epidemics starting with the Black Death of Europe in the fourteenth century. Their principal task, besides taking care of plague victims, was to record in public records the deaths due to the plague. 

In certain European cities like Florence and Perugia plague doctors were requested to do autopsies to help determine the cause of death and how the plague played a role. Plague doctors became testators and witnesses to numerous wills during times of plague epidemics. Plague doctors also gave advice to their patients about their conduct before death. This advice varied depending on the patient, and after the Middle Ages the nature of the relationship between doctor and patient was governed by an increasingly complex ethical code.

Plague doctors practiced bloodletting and other remedies such as putting frogs or leeches on the buboes to "rebalance the humors" as a normal routine. Plague doctors could not generally interact with the general public because of the nature of their business and the possibility of spreading the disease; they could also be subject to quarantine.

A famous plague doctor who gave medical advice about preventive measures which could be taken against the plague was Nostradamus. Nostradamus' advice was the removal of infected corpses, getting fresh air, drinking clean water, and drinking a juice preparation of rose hips. 

The plague doctor's costume was the clothing worn by a plague doctor to protect him from airborne diseases. The costume consisted of an ankle length overcoat and a bird-like beak mask often filled with sweet or strong smelling substances (commonly lavender), along with gloves, boots, a brim hat and an outer over-clothing garment.

The mask had glass openings for the eyes and a curved beak shaped like that of a bird. Straps held the beak in front of the doctor's nose. The mask had two small nose holes and was a type of respirator which contained aromatic items. The beak could hold dried flowers (including roses and carnations), herbs (including mint), spices, camphor or a vinegar sponge. The purpose of the mask was to keep away bad smells, which were thought to be the principal cause of the disease in the miasma theory of infection, before it was disproved by germ theory. Doctors believed the herbs would counter the "evil" smells of the plague and prevent them from becoming infected.

The beak doctor costume worn by plague doctors had a wide brimmed leather hood to indicate their profession. They used wooden canes to point out areas needing attention and to examine patients without touching them. The canes were also used to keep people away, to remove clothing from plague victims without having to touch them, and to take a patient's pulse.

Some modern writers have described fourteenth-century plague doctors as wearing bird-like masks. However, medical historians have attributed the invention of the "beak doctor" costume to Charles de Lorme, who adopted in 1619 the idea of a full head-to-toe protective garment, modeled after a soldier's armour. This consisted of a bird-like mask, and a long leather (Moroccan or Levantine) or waxed-canvas gown which was from the neck to the ankle. The over-clothing garment, as well as leggings, gloves, boots, and a hat, were made of waxed leather. The garment was impregnated with similar fragrant items as the beak mask.

Interview to..Rebekah Armusik, author of "The Gothic Memoirs Series"

Rebekah Armusik a talented female writer from USA, author of "The Gothic Memoirs Series", a 13 book opera full of dark romance fused with epicism which gets better and more engaging book after book. At the moment only the first 5 books of the series are complete and available to buy on Amazon and Barnes&Nobles. Rebekah is now working on the 6th and 7th book that should be ready by Fall this year.

Read below this short interview I made to Rebekah to find something more about her and her artwork!

When did you discover your talent for writing?

I began writing short stories around 9 years old and soon after began writing poetry.

Why did you choose gothic as genre for your books?

 Since I was a child, I’ve been enthralled with the darker and more mysterious aspects of life. Gothic literature by nature is deeply romantic, dark and utterly emotional – all the things that stir me. I honestly don’t think I could ever write in another genre – nothing else appeals to me

Sadly, I think most people have preconceived views concerning gothic literature and tend to shy away but once they are introduced to my work, they become enchanted with the romantic and epic nature of the tale – it’s never what they anticipated.

What is "The Gothic Memoirs Series" about? What inspired you to write it?

My tale begins before time was recorded, during the first celestial war when God threw Lucifer into hell and separated his army. Some remained neutral and God felt that He could not trust these angels to remain in heaven and serve Him well, so He banished them to Earth as punishment.  The fallen had to adapt and because they were not born, but created, their bodies adjusted and mutated – hence the need for blood.

Without ruing the story, I also have incorporated the legends of Lilith, the first wife of Adam. Throughout history, Lilith has been demonized; she has been called the first vampire, a succubus, and sadly, the cause of stillborn deaths. But, I never liked or bought that idea. She simply didn’t dig Adam and in my opinion, that’s not a sufficient reason to make her the origin all things rancid and foul. So, taking some artistic license, I made her an ethereal goddess who catches the eye of Samuel- the Arch Angel of the elements and master of the wind. They fall in love and have 7 daughters with angelic blood and gifts.  Thus, the Guardian race is born and is, eventually, critical in helping the fallen adapt to their life on Earth.

However, the story is told in present day through the voice of Nadija, a young woman from the line of Lilith. She is not aware of her linage because her grandmother has kept it a secret for own selfish reasons.  Though it’s rooted in the past, it’s relatable because it’s told in a present and modern voice. I want to engage the audience, not distance them, and I achieve this by welcoming them to be part of the story, to be present on the journey.  Consequently, the reader learns most of the dramatic back stories from the characters that assist Nadija on her adventure to becoming the active Guardian Queen.

My inspiration has always been my grandmother and her love of telling dark tales and Slavic folklore. My mother’s family is from Bratislava and I was immersed in the traditions and culture since I was a child. Plus, I spent way too many years in Catholic school – eventually, it begins to blend into every aspect of your life. In my teens I became interested in Jewish mysticism and witchcraft and these subjects really had a huge impact on my work.

Does any of the character resemble you and/or your personality and which of the characters you have created is your favourite?

My favorite character will always be Nadija – I know her the best, we are inseparable. But I love writing each character for different reasons. Most are based off of real people so when writing them, I imagine their mannerisms, what they would say, or how they would say it. Writing Alexei is easy because I live with him – he is based on my husband. My husband is very nurturing and protective and has a very quick and dry sense of humor. So most of the conversations between Alexei and Nadija are actual conversations we’ve had.

I remember you told me your husband is the artist behind the artworks on the book covers. Where does he get inspiration for his works?

I am very fortunate to be married to a well-known traditional painter. My husband’s work is terribly romantic and captivating so his style is a perfect fit for my novels.  I often marvel at how well he paints emotion - a slice of time that would otherwise, be forgotten. Essentially, he does with paint what I do with words so the artistic marriage of our art forms is very natural. I usually give him an idea of what I want and he’ll make a quick sketch and then after some conversation he’ll begin to paint it for me. As he works, I stop in the studio and give him feedback.  I could never have my hard work covered by something that did not represent it properly – I am far too attached to my world and its representation.

***

If you are interested in Rebekah Armmusik's work check the first five books at the links below:

Book 1: Memoirs of a Gothic Soul
               Amazon.com:  http://www.amazon.com/Memoirs-Gothic-Soul-Rebekah-Armusik/dp/1934597295
               Barnes and Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/memoirs-of-a-gothic-soul-rebekah-armusik/1101078571?ean=9781934597293

Book 2: Mariposa
               Amazon.com   http://www.amazon.com/Mariposa-Rebekah-Armusik/dp/147752374X/ref=pd_sim_b_1
               Barnes and Noble   http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/mariposa-rebekah-armusik/1107175158?ean=2940013580510

Book 3: Lucifer Rising
              Amazon.com  http://www.amazon.com/Lucifer-Rising-Volume-Rebekah-Armusik/dp/1477490795/ref=pd_sim_b_2
              Barnes and Noble:  http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/lucifer-rising-rebekah-armusik/1110615314?ean=2940014358170

Book 4: Vlkolak King
              Amazon.com   http://www.amazon.com/Vlkolak-King-Volume-Rebekah-Armusik/dp/1480151815/ref=pd_bxgy_b_img_z
              Barnes and Noble  http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/vlkolak-king-rebekah-armusik/1113727919?ean=2940015879032

Book 5: In the Shadows of Eden
              Amazon.com   http://www.amazon.com/Shadows-Gothic-Memoirs-Series-Volume/dp/1491247215/ref=pd_sim_b_1
              Barnes and Noble   http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/in-the-shadows-of-eden-rebekah-armusik/1118185310?ean=2940148111191

***

Links to Rebekah's official websites:

Facebook Fan Page

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Rebekah-Armusik-Author/305178563631?fref=ts

Website

http://www.rebekaharmusik.com

Twitter

http://www.twitter.com/rebekaharmusik

Google+

https://plus.google.com/+RebekahArmusik/posts

Lalaurie Haunted Mansion

In the French Quarter of New Orleans there is an ordinary looking house, but a closer look at the hidden past of the property reveals a more complicated history- tales of secret attics and murder..

It’s all true in the haunted Lalaurie House.

The dark history of the Lalaurie House began in 1832 when wealthy doctor Louis Lalaurie and his wife Delphine moved into the mansion. The family was one of prominent standing in the community at that time- they were socialites and and threw lavish parties for their neighbors.

Despite the appearance of their charming lifestyle, whispers of more sinister things spread through the slave class. It seemed there was an extremely high turnover with the house slaves- not only did the Lalauries frequently purchase new slaves, but no one ever seemed to figure out what happened to the old ones. Until, that is, a fire broke out in the Lalaurie kitchen.

Some say it was a slave that started it in hopes to bring law enforcement into the house to investigate, but when authorities did show up, they discovered a secret attic with a grisly scene. Many of the former slaves who were thought to have disappeared were still within the house, in cages or attached to chains. All were disfigured and mutilated beyond recognition, tortured beyond belief. Many had died and their body parts were strewn around the room. 

The town immediately gathered as an angry mob in order to arrest the couple, but the Lalauries barely escaped them by carriage, never to be seen or heard from again. It was then understood from multiple slave accounts that Delphine had been the mastermind behind the torture chamber, and her husband simply turned a blind eye to her horrendous experiments. 

The LaLaurie house has had many incarnations before returning to its purpose as a residence. It was a saloon and a girl's school, a music conservatory, an apartment building and a furniture store. The stories began almost immediately. Many have reported seeing the phantom of that young slave girl fleeing across the LaLaurie roof. Agonized screams coming from the empty house were commonplace. Those who stayed there after it became occupied left after only a few days. At the turn of the century, a resident, one of the many poor Italian immigrants who lived in the house, encountered a black man in chains. The entity attacked him on the stairwell then suddenly disappeared. The next morning, most of the other residents abandoned the building.

The bar, "The Haunted Saloon," opened in the 20th century. The owner kept records of the odd experiences of his patrons. Later, it seemed the LaLaurie House did not care to be a furniture store. The owner’s merchandise was often found covered in a mysterious foul-smelling fluid. After staying up to catch the suspected vandals, the owner found the liquid had somehow re-appeared in plain sight, although no one had entered. The business closed.

Animals were found butchered within the house. Delphine was reportedly seen hovering over the infant child of a turn-of-the-century resident, or chasing children with a whip. She also apparently attempted, late in the 19th century and long after she was dead, to strangle a black manservant. Today, people just passing the building on tour report fainting or becoming nauseous, and of course, disembodied screams or wailing are still occasionally heard. Some tourists are able to photograph orbs around the roof area.

"Why is a raven like a writing desk?" - About the Mad Hatter and my new writing desk!

As soon as I realised that the English word for what my boyfriend handcrafted me for Christmas was "writing desk" I couldn't help but think about the Alice In Wonderland quote, when the Mad Hatter asks her: "Why is a raven like a writing-desk?".

I actually never thought too much about it because for me it was an obvious non-sense question, typical of Lewis Carroll (author of the Alice in Wonderland adventures) way of writing but out of pure curiosity (there's a bit of Alice in all of us after all ihih) I decided to check on the internet if I could find something about this sentence, if it had a subtle meaning for example. After a few clicks I found myself on the Wikipedia page of the Mad Hatter character and while reading I discovered some interesting fact about him too. For example, why are him and the March Hare always having tea?

The Hatter explains to Alice that he and the March Hare are always having tea because, when he tried to sing for the Queen of Hearts at her celebration, she sentenced him to death for "murdering the time," but he escapes decapitation. In retaliation, Time (referred to as a "Him") halts himself in respect to the Hatter, keeping him and the March Hare stuck at 6:00 forever. The tea party, when Alice arrives, is characterised by switching places on the table at any given time, making short, personal remarks, asking unanswerable riddles and reciting nonsensical poetry, all of which eventually drive Alice away.

I also discovered that the name "Mad Hatter" was clearly inspired by the phrase "as mad as a hatter". Mercury was used in the process of curing felt used in some hats, making it impossible for hatters to avoid inhaling the mercury fumes given off during the hat making process; hatters and mill workers thus often suffered mad hatter disease, mercury poisoning causing neurological damage including confused speech and distorted vision.

Hat making was the main trade in Stockport, near where Carroll grew up, and it was not unusual then for hatters to appear disturbed or confused; many died early as a result of mercury poisoning. However, the Hatter does not exhibit the symptoms of mercury poisoning, which include "excessive timidity, diffidence, increasing shyness, loss of self-confidence, anxiety, and a desire to remain unobserved and unobtrusive." The Hatter and the March Hare are initially referred to as "both mad" by the Cheshire Cat.

Back to the riddle, it appears in the chapter "A Mad Tea Party". The Hatter asks the much-noted riddle and when Alice gives up, the Hatter admits: "I haven't the slightest idea." 

Lewis Carroll originally intended the riddle to be without an answer; but after many requests from readers, he and others — including puzzle expert Sam Loyd — suggested possible answers! 

In his preface to the 1896 edition, Carroll wrote:

Enquiries have been so often addressed to me, as to whether any answer to the Hatter’s Riddle can be imagined, that I may as well put on record here what seems to me to be a fairly appropriate answer: "Because it can produce a few notes, though they are very flat; and it is nevar* put with the wrong end in front!" This, however, is merely an afterthought; the riddle as originally invented had no answer at all.

*Note that "nevar" is "raven" spelled "with the wrong end in front" (that is, backwards).

Loyd proposed a number of alternative solutions to the riddle, including "Because Poe wrote on both" and "Because the notes for which they are noted are not noted for being musical notes." 

I personally love Loyd's "Because Poe wrote on both" being I a deep fan of Mr Edgar.

BUT, back to my writing desk! Here are the pictures:

Isn't it gorgeous? :D My boyfriend made it for me out of a bare piece of wood and I'm so proud of him. This is officially the best gift ever received! Surely one of a kind and done with so much love. He didn't have all the appropriate tools to make it but with his genius and creativity he managed to make it anyway..in 3 days only by the way!! :P

LondonEdge show 2014

LondonEdge is the biggest and best show of its kind, dedicated to the alternative creative side of the world. A space for the most creative and niche brands out there, from rock n roll to burlesque, to the darker side of goth.  Hosted at the London Olympia from 2nd to 4th February 2014, LondonEdge is proud to present the 29th edition of show after 14 years of activity and which also sees the return of the much celebrated LondonEdge Fashion Show!

"Catering to a group of the most creative and exciting niches in apparel, footwear and accessories, LondonEdge is the only show worldwide dedicated to this very specific sector of the fashion industry, welcoming in a host of left centre, daring and statement brands, exhibitors, media and visitors.

Dominating the trade show scene for 14 years, the show is split into two notional areas, Original and Fashion.  LondonEdge Original represents over 200 hard-edged, punk, rock, goth and tattoo inspired brands where as LondonEdge Fashion houses over 150 rock n roll, vintage, retro, pin up, burlesque and rockabilly collections.  With both areas heaving with clothing, accessories, footwear and beauty brands, there truly is something for everyone.

Alongside the ever-popular themed areas, lounges and complimentary hairstyling stands, this February 2014 LondonEdge is pleased to announce the return of their entertainment acme, the LondonEdge Fashion Show.

Absent for the past two seasons and back by popular demand, attendees will be treated to two different fashion shows, each showing twice a day on the centre stage and no doubt pulling in crowds of exhibitors, buyers and visitors alike.

Excitement is already building that the highlight of the LondonEdge entertainment menu is back with more & bigger brands than ever! Representing the vintage, retro and kitsch  styles at LondonEdge are renowned brands Bettie Page, Hell Bunny, Voodoo Vixen and Purplish London. On behalf of the edgier LondonEdge, there is plenty of alternative, dark and gothic apparel and accessories on offer including Spin Doctor, Queen of Darkness, Kreepsville 666, Jaw Breaker and Phaze.

Catering to all, Banned Apparel, Dead Threads, Echo3 and Iron Fist are also on the list for this one off show and will indeed prove eye catching during the performance and on the trade show floor.

Entertainment aside, this unique global show is dedicated to short order merchandise, with  an excellent reputation for attracting a high percentage of overseas buyers and for onsite order-writing.

The rock n roll, cool and kooky styles of the exhibitors is met year after year with an exciting buzz and positive atmosphere and with this host of eclectic brands on the catwalk, lively and enticing music and professionally chorographic performances this season will be no exception! More news to follow.

When: Feb 2nd – 4th 2014

Where: The National Hall, Olympia, Hammersmith Road, London, W14 8UX

Web: www.londonedge.com