Mabh Savage | Meet the Author – The Pagan Collective

Meet the author is a series of articles intended to introduce you to our wonderful authors. Learn about the books they’ve written, the spiritual pathways they’ve traversed and some fun little tidbits… introducing Mabh Savage!

Tell us a bit about yourself…

My name is Mabh, which is an Irish name meaning, approximately, intoxicating or to do with intoxication. Despite its roots, I am English and hail from Yorkshire, where I’m lucky enough to live in a suburb that’s super close to nature and packed with daily inspiration for writing, poetry, music, and magic. I play guitar and several other instruments, enjoy being a busy mum, and get out into nature wherever possible. I write for the Pagan Pages eZine and work with the UK Pagan Federation, among other community endeavours.

What books have you written?

My latest book is the Magic of Birds, a beginner’s guide to how to connect with the folkloric and mythological significance of birds and how that can deepen any spiritual path. I also wrote Practically Pagan: An Alternative Guide to Planet-Friendly Living, which is about ways to walk a little more kindly on the Earth while practicing Paganism or any spiritual path. Older books include Pagan Portals: Celtic Witchcraft and A Modern Celt: Seeking the Ancestors.

How would you describe your spiritual pathway?

It might seem like a cop out to say “eclectic”, but that’s definitely true for me, and possibly a reflection of my recently diagnosed ADHD! I definitely consider myself a Pagan and a witch, but I’ve found that over the last decade, I’ve moved away from directed spellwork and group ritual and leaned into natural connections and the inspiration that comes from the natural world. I’m fascinated by Irish Paganism, especially how it’s syncretic with Christianity in many ways, such as the way Imbolc and St Brigid’s day fall at the same time or very close together. I’m also a part of some Heathen groups, and I’m a devotee of Hekate, but I try to manage these respectfully, and each aspect of my path gets its own attention and mindfulness, as required.

What is something fun and quirky about yourself?

That’s a hard question! I write and play music, which I find fun, though it’s not particularly quirky! I’m also an actor in a Murder Mystery group (Sue Gibson’s Murder Mysteries), so every few weeks, on a Friday, you might find me in handcuffs or with a knife in my back at a local hotel.

Where can people find you?

My main site is http://www.mabhsavage.com, and you can also find many of my articles on Pagan Pages: https://paganpages.org/emagazine/author/mabh-savage/ and the Moon Books Pagan Collective. I edit the bi-annual Pagan Federation Children and Families magazine, Aether, which is available for free online: https://pfcommunity.org.uk/shop/

What tips do you have for folk beginning their spiritual journey?

Be discerning. If you start something, whether it’s a course or a book, and it feels great, stick with it for as long as you can. Really get into it and absorb as much as you can, journaling or finding some way to record your progress. Conversely, if you feel uncomfortable at any time, step away. That goes for places, people, and even spiritual beings or situations. You’re not obliged to suffer for spirituality. Also, look out for resources from trusted practitioners and community members, and seek advice from people you know.

Which deity or deities would you love to have dinner with?

Loki. I feel like the energy Loki would bring to any dinner party would be unbeatable.

What magical items would you take with you if you had to live on an island for a year?

Is cheese magical? Definitely my Mórrígan oracle deck. It’s been a reliable source of guidance for me for many years now. Notepads and pens, as I find writing magical, particularly writing music and poetry. And… a big cauldron. A witch has got to eat!