Book About The Muses

I came across a wonderful book for people who want to continue working with the theme of creativity of this year's FOI Goddess Festival main liturgy, The Winged Pegasus. It is called The Nine Muses by Angeles Arrien.

The book examines each Muse in depth.  Additional chapters explore the derivation of the word "Muse;" Mnemosyne, Mother of the Muses; and the purpose of myth as bridge between community and Mystery.

in the preface, Angeles asks 4 deep questions regarding our society and how our mental tools, collective consciousness, healthy expressions of the frminine principle, and creating a world that works for everyone, are related to our creative abilities.

Each chapter is devoted to a particular Muse. Chapters include images of that Muse, practical exercises such as writing an invocation intended to activate and make accessible her power and presence in our lives, and thoughtful reflections that include intensely pertinent literary expressions intended to awaken deep inner responses. Famous people who embody the power of specific Muses provide examples of that Muse's energy in action.

For example, the chapter about Mnemosyne explores the place of memory in our lives, along with ways to expand its power and purpose. The chapter on Calliope includes contact information for story-telling associations. The chapter on Clio touches on personal, family, and oral history. The chapter on Erato introduces collections of love poetry from other cultures. The excellent chapter on Melpomene not only explores sorrow and suffering, but offers thoughts on release and forgiveness as well.

I recommend this book as a useful way to get to know The Muses, to invite creativity into your life, and as a productive follow-up to the wonderful ritual by Lady Olivia Robertson, The Winged Pegasus.