The Fern Blossom

Paproć w każdym lesie tylko jedna zakwita, a to w takim zakątku, tak ukryta, że nadzwyczajnego trzeba szczęścia, aby na nią trafić (There is only one fern to blossom in a single forest; it is hidden in such a nook that you need to be exceptionally lucky to find it), as was written by Józef Ignacy Kraszewski in his novel Kwiat paproci (The Fern Blossom). Midsummer Night, the shortest night of the whole year, is full of secrets and magic. No wonder that the magic fern blossom, according to legend, blooms on that very night. It is to show the way to great treasure, attract good luck, wealth and the ability to influence the feelings of others. Only a young, truthful, hard-working, virtuous and courageous person can find this magic plant: thunder, winds, earthquakes happen and devilish laughter can be heard when, at about midnight, the fern blossoms. Therefore the magic power of the blossom can only be poured over a true daredevil.
What is the fern blossom like? Unfortunately, that is something nobody knows. Tales include very interesting but divergent descriptions: the blossom is blue or gold; it shines with unusual light; it has five petals; it looks like a star or even… like a cheerful golden eye.
Midsummer Night is the time of courtship. Therefore, the search for the blossom was often taken up by lovers, expressing their love to each other in a tender embrace. The quest for the fern blossom was only an excuse to walk in the forest with their dearest person… Now it is sufficient to pick a sprig of fern and carry it around in one’s wallet. It is said to attract good luck.


Barbara Błońska (monthly 'Karnet')