How a Blackberry Crisp for Michaelmas Fed Me Wonder
On Thursday we observed Michaelmas through a casual dessert night with friends. They brought delicious homemade wassail and we pulled out the ice cream to top a homemade blackberry crisp. Everything was *chef’s kiss* tasty. You might remember my plan to make maple-themed treats. Well, that took a turn when I learned about the feast day folklore behind blackberries.
Michaelmas Blackberry Folklore
The origin of Michaelmas is rooted in Revelation 12:7-9 when Michael and several other angels battle against a dragon seen as the devil. The heavenly battle ends poorly for the dragon. Scripture suggests the beast was thrown down onto the Earth. European folklore carries the story forward by suggesting the beast fell straight into a blackberry bush. He then angrily cursed the berries and spit on them, making them undesirable to eat. This explains why Michaelmas may also be called “Devil Spits Day”.
In order to enjoy the blackberries before they are “cursed” each year, the story of Michaelmas is a reminder to eat all the berries you can before they’re ruined. This inspired my own blackberry crisp. I used this recipe, which used maple syrup to sweeten the berry mixture. A personal victory, if you ask me. I love finding ways to incorporate maple syrup.
The blackberries’ spotlight in this particular folk tale is a curious thing. Of all things to be worried about with an extraterrestrial, mischievous dragon on the loose, the blackberries must be protected and enjoyed!
Finding Meaning from Michael
Of course this feast day is more than just blackberries; it’s a story that lends itself to a variety of deeper interpretations. I’ve been fascinated learning and observing how all kinds of folks draw meaning from the biblical tale and related myths. It’s given me plenty to think about.
One of the clearest themes, for me, is Michaelmas’ proximity to the autumn equinox. This seasonal marker holds many metaphors for new beginnings, turning inward, even new life in the midst of death. In the northern hemisphere the days are growing shorter and the air is chilly, warning of winter’s approach. Michael’s courageous actions are an example of light overcoming darkness. Light, whether literal or figurative, is resilient, eternal, and a guide. This reminder of eternal goodness can be a healing balm in places where hate and corruption threaten creation’s wellbeing.
The dragon represents another curious theme. Defeated (or tamed, as some suggest), it sets out to make war with Earth’s inhabitants. The dragon is commonly understood as Satan, but could also be understood as the personification of evil or even anger. If we play with the later suggestion, then the beast is something we all might battle, not just Michael. We are each invited to “tame” our own anger. Within our own minds and bodies, we can practice daily peacemaking so that it extends into our homes and neighborhoods.
And finally, Michael’s name is another interesting detail. Michael (or roughly, Mi-cha-el) means Who is like God? in Hebrew. This is a beautiful question, much too mysterious to unpack here. For now, I find it important to note Michael’s name points readers to a posture we might find ourselves in throughout life — humility. Creation is a brilliant expression of beauty and strength, and yet we are not self-sustaining. The natural world and humankind are woven together in a dance of dependance. Our finitude necessitates protection. We need to be cared for and to care for other parts of creation. This is especially humbling for a society with a narrow focus on individualism.
Further Reflection
Our first observance of Michaelmas was simple and cozy. I’m delighted to notice that such an easy dessert and a single lit candle can still stir up curiosity for day. Perhaps next year we will venture to make a salt dough dragon! Until next year, I’m letting these ideas and folklore simmer in the back of my mind. Here are a few questions we can ponder together:
Where are you being invited to offer light?
Where do you notice a dragon within yourself?
Where do you experience dependence on others?
