An Interview With a Witch #2 - Witches Of Essex Project
The following interview and images are part of my Witches of Essex project, an exploration of what it means to be a witch in Essex today.
What is your definition of a witch and how does that define your own witchood?
I do not believe there can be a clear definition of a Witch. It is a title one can accept depending on their practice, values and perceptions of the World and how we connect.
For me, I openly accept all forms of knowledge of the World and see how some can be interconnected. I base my beliefs on many occult practices and remain and uphold the Wiccan Rede although I am not a Wiccan practitioner. Its fundamental principle of ‘harm none’ and the idea that your intentions impact what you put out into the World, can be seen across such a diverse number of practices, that it proves to be a pillar for any practitioner.
Can you share a bit about your identity as a witch and your practice?
I identify as an eclectic Witch. Again, like most things, we try to put everyone into nice tidy boxes and as always, I like to be different. Here, I follow the practices of my own and of the many. I look and seek knowledge from many different aspects of Witchcraft and Magick and use them as I feel is right for my purpose.
How do you feel being a witch enriches your life today?
Witchcraft and a variety of practices focus on the individual and how they bind themselves to the World and its energies. By being a Witch I find that I am constantly learning and reflecting on myself, on my inner energies, my identity of self and of the unknown. The road to opening yourself is continuous and one that really gives strength and perspective in my life
Do you feel comfortable to declare yourself a witch in public or do you fear judgment and prejudice?
To be honest, what I am is my own thoughts and I keep this private as much as possible and only say what I am and what I do should people ask and be interested. I do have many clear tattoos, that those who are aware of our practices, would identify with and without saying would know that I practice. However, it is very hard to change people’s modern-day perceptions on Witchcraft with just a 5-minute conversation. The area and scope of our practice is so vast and wide that the word Witch seems to be such an umbrella term, as one Witch will be completely different to another. I don’t think you would ever find one of the same anywhere in the World.
Have you suffered any prejudice for being a witch? If so, how has it affected you?
I personally haven’t but that might be because of my privacy in my own development. Those close to me and, in some instances publicly, are aware of my values and beliefs but there comes a point when you choose to look beyond other people’s perceptions, although this can be difficult. I hate to think the damage it can cause to my fellow Witches that have had this happen to them. It stems from others lack of knowledge and understanding.
Are you aware of the history of witchcraft and the witch hunts in Essex and does this impact your identity or your practice as a witch today?
I value knowledge and continue to look deep into my background. I firmly believe that we are linked in many ways and that things happen when the time is right, and that the energies agree to new introductions. It is so powerful to start to understand the struggles and the traditions of those before you and the sacrifices they made for our power to remain alive. As I develop in myself I know that I must honour those that protect me on this land and those of the Essex Witch Hunt must never be forgotten and must always be thanked for their self-identity.
I want to thank James for his support with this project and his time and energy answering my questions and allowing me to take his picture.
If you are a witch, or know a witch who might like to be involved with the project, please do get in touch - https://leilabalinphotography.com/witchesofessex