Athenaeum
A Place for study of the arts
In ancient Greece students of the arts gathered in the temples of Athena to exchange ideas, philosophies, and techniques.  The purpose of the Athenaeum in Ravenwynd is the same.  Here you will find things from many different traditions.  And we hope you will find something useful to you on your path.
Poetic Tree Trance

The following is a incantation by Robert Graves and is used to induce what is known as a poetic trance.  These trances are used to enhance memory so that the poet or bard might memorize the enormous amounts of information necessary to their calling.
It can also be used to help you memorize most anything.  In keeping with our theme this issue, the incantation uses trees.


Begin the chant while tapping on your forehead with your fingertips

Tree powers, finger tips,
First pentad of the four,
Discover all your poet asks
Drumming on his brow.

Birch peg, throbbing thumb,
By power of divination
Birch, bring him news of love
Loud the heart knocks.

Rowan rod, forefinger,
By power of divination
Unriddle him a riddle,
The key's cast away.

Ash, middle finger,
By power of divination
Weatherwise, fool otherwise,
Mete him out the winds.

Alder, physic finger,
By power of divination
Diagnose all maladies
Of a doubtful mind.

Willow wand, ear finger,
By power of divination
Force confessions from the mouth
Of a mouldering corpse.

Finger ends, five twigs,
Trees, true divining trees,
Discover all your poet asks
Drumming on his brow.
 

                    ~Robert Graves

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