3.2- Taliesin and Ceridwen with Lucy Holland

Ancient bards and tales of transformation are this week’s topic, with the special guest appearance of the wonderful Lucy Holland! Lucy is the author of bestselling historical fantasy novels, Sistersong and Song of the Huntress, she also co-hosts Breaking the Glass Slipper, an intersectional feminist podcast.

Ceridwen By Christopher Williams

Taliesin and Ceridwen

A fascinating figure, Taliesin is both historical - we have records of the very real bard and performer - and fantastical - a mystical figure from the Tale of Taliesin. It’s the mythical aspects of the infamous musician that we’re discussing with Lucy, whose current work in progress is inspired by the legend.

The tale is one of transformation; Taliesin (originally Gwion Bach ap Gwreang) was a servant of the powerful witch, Ceridwen, and was charged with stirring the Cauldron of Inspiration for a year as she prepared a potion for her son. However, as the potion brewed, three drops fell on his thumb and he sucked them without thinking - thus consuming the power of the brew and receiving enlightenment. Gwion fled in fear of Ceridwen’s wrath but the power of the potion was such that he transformed wildly before becoming a seed that Ceridwen accidentally ate. Gwion transformed again inside Ceridwen and was reborn from her body as a baby. Fostered by Elffin ap Gwyddno, he was renamed Taliesin to begin his life once more on the path to becoming a bard.

Myth & Fiction

While you’re waiting for Lucy’s fabulous next work, start your journey into historical fantasy fiction with Sistersong. Inspired by the Twa Sisters murder ballad, Sistersong explores transformation, treachery, love and death. Sistersong will be available in paperback from the 5th May, pre-order wherever you prefer to purchase!