A Writer’s Guide to Mythical Creatures Part 2 - Bethany Henry (2024)

Last month we took a look at seven underappreciated mythical creatures to inform and inspire our writing. Beyond the classic dragon/unicorn/mermaid triad, there are countless other mythological beings, characters, and creatures to learn about. Unique and fantastic beasts can be found in the mythology of every culture and they’re a gold mine of inspiration for writers.

Because there are so many stories and legends out there (and because they are just that cool!) today we’ll look at an additional five lesser-known mythological creatures along with writing prompts.

Note: As with most myths and folklore, the information about these creatures is varied and hard to pin down. Most of what I’ve gathered and condensed here is information from Wikipedia, MythOrTruth.com, Mythology.net, and Brittanica.com.

Beyond my notes, I’d encourage you to research further! There is a wealth of material to be found.

1. Harpy

Harpies have their roots in Greek and Roman mythology. They are wind spirits, specifically of storm winds, and pictured as half human (generally female) and half bird. Some descriptions tell of Harpies being incredibly beautiful maidens while others describe the Harpies as foul and disgusting. Harpies have also been associated with ghosts and the undead, potentially being seen as the winds that carry people’s souls to the afterlife.

Writing Prompts: What if there was Harpy associated with gentle breezes instead of storm winds? Could sailors make bargains with Harpies in order to control the sail winds? What if a Harpy was just doing their job carrying souls to the afterlife and didn’t understand what death meant?

2. Brownie

The Brownie is a small household fairy or spirit from English and Scottish folklore. It is seen as both a helpful creature, often doing housework or tasks in the barn, yet also mischievous at times, such as moving furniture or items in the house. They are easily offended and can turn malicious if angered. Brownies appreciate gifts of cream and bread but may become offended by other offerings.

Writing Prompts: What if there was an absent minded Brownie who was trying to be helpful but created more problems than he solved? What about a child who befriends the household Brownie and tries to get it to do their chores? What if there were two Brownies at the same house?

3. Phoenix

The Phoenix is a bird associated with the sun and immortality. There is only one Phoenix living at a time and it is reborn at its death. This rebirth is often described as involving the Phoenix erupting into flames and then arising from the ashes. The Phoenix has a beautiful singing voice and is said to have halted the sun-god in his tracks so that he could listen to its song.

Writing Prompts: What if a Phoenix was lonely and looking for another Phoenix? Could a Phoenix be afraid of dying? What if a Phoenix was friends with Death and didn’t care for the sun-god’s attention?

4. Will-o-the-wisp

Versions of the Will-o-the-wisp are found in all corners of the world. Generally a Will-o-the-wisp is a ghostly light seen by anyone traveling at night. These lights frequently lead people (and sometimes ships) away from safety, though at times they can lead to treasure. Will-o-the-wisps are the work of fairies or spirits and they led to the creation of the popular Jack-o-Lantern that we decorate with at Halloween today.

Writing Prompts: What if a Will-o-the-wisp was trying to lead people to treasure but everyone thought he was leading them to their doom? What if Will-o-the-wisps were just minding their own business carrying their lights at night? What would a Will-o-the-wisp think if they saw a Jack-o-Lantern today?

5. Undine

An Undine is a water nymph often found in forest pools or waterfalls. They are typically female. The most famous type of Undine is the Mermaid but there are other species as well. They do not possess a soul but can gain one if they marry a human. However, if their spouse is unfaithful, either or both of them may die.

Writing Prompts: What if an Undine from a forest pool traveled to see the ocean? What would the dynamics of an Undine community of all women look like?What if not all Undine agreed that getting married and having a soul was a good thing?

And that’s it for today! Five fabulous mythological beings to think about and be inspired by. Which of these is your favorite? And what’s an interesting fantastic creature that I missed?