From the Vault: Saint Swithin's Revenge
Summary
Hosts Robert Lamb and Joe McCormick explore the folklore of St. Swithin, an uncannonized 9th-century bishop linked to a weather proverb predicting forty days of rain. They trace the legend’s origins from historical records to medieval myth-making, discussing tales of healing broken eggs and battling witches. The episode also examines how psychedelic musician Rocky Erickson referenced St. Swithin’s Day in his horror rock lyrics, connecting the saint’s rainy reputation to vampire lore.
Topics discussed
Introduction to St. Swithin's Day
Rocky Erickson's song and vampire connection
The weather proverb and Rocky's lyrics
Historical facts about the real St. Swithin
The creation of the saint's cult and legends
Legends of burial wishes and miracles
Pagan roots and witch attack stories
The 40 days of rain revenge story
Origins of the weather prediction myth
Confirmation bias and proverbs
Meteorological explanation and conclusion
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