There are few creatures that live so completely between the worlds of fact and folklore as the wolf. They've been feared as monsters lurking beyond the edge of the woods, revered as guardians and guides, transformed into werewolves, woven into fairy tales, and called upon as symbols of instinct, loyalty, protection, freedom—and the wildness within us that refuses to be tamed. And naturally, the wolf has left its tracks throughout Alice Hoffman's Practical Magic series. This week, we're following those tracks through all four books, with special attention to Faith Owens and her beloved familiar, Keeper, whose story gives new meaning to one of the most beautiful ideas in Magic Lessons: Love is a wolf. Then we're stepping beyond the garden gate to meet the real animal beneath the mythology. We're exploring wolf behavior and family dynamics, the truth behind the infamous "alpha wolf," wolves vs. dogs, howling and communication, and the complicated relationship between wolves and humans. From there, we're heading deep into the woods for wolves in mythology, fairy tales, witchcraft and folklore—from ancient wolf gods and legendary shapeshifters to Little Red Riding Hood, werewolves and lycanthropy, The Company of Wolves, and the Wild Woman archetype of Women Who Run with the Wolves. Finally, we'll explore wolves as magical and psychological symbols: intuition, protection, belonging, dreams, shadow work, transformation, and reclaiming the untamed self. Because after centuries of being told to stay on the path and beware of what waits in the woods... perhaps it's time we asked whether the wolf was ever really the monster. Keep your lantern lit, Witches. We're following the howl. 🐺🌙 SOCIALS: Link Tree Patreon Instagram Sources DISCLAIMER: The Magnolia Street Podcast intends to discuss the movie, “Practical Magic” in its entirety. This will evidently result in spoilers and it is recommended that you watch and or read the following. Alice Hoffman’s: Practical Magic, Rules of Magic, Magic Lessons, Book of Magic. The Magnolia Street Podcast is for entertainment and informational purposes and should not be used as a substitute for professional or medical advice. Do not attempt any of the discussed actions, solutions, or remedies without first consulting a qualified professional. It should be noted that we are not medical professionals and therefore we are not responsible or liable for any injuries or illnesses resulting from the use of any information on our website or in our media. The Magnolia Street Podcast presenters, Kristina Babich and Justina Carubia are passionate fans of Alice Hoffman’s work and the Practical Magic word she has created. There is no copyright infringement intended, all characters and story lines are that of Alice Hoffman. We do not own any of that material as well as any of the move score music shared within the podcast. All intellectual property rights concerning personally written music and or shared art are vested in Magnolia Street Podcast. Copying, distributing and any other use of these materials is not permitted without the written permission from Kristina Babich and Justina Carubia.
