St. Nicholas Day
is for the kiddos, loaded
with goodness and gifts…
Once shoes are filled, the
parties begin, and adults
enjoy Krampus Night!
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| Writing Prompt |
December 6th is the traditional celebration of St. Nicholas. In many locations throughout Europe, that celebration includes the "Christmas Demon" named Krampus. Write a two stanza poem of 5-7-5 or a 5-7-7 in celebration of either (or both!) of these figures as they herald the approach of the Christmas season. You might even want to put your shoes out tonight . . . . Have fun! |
Author Notes
"In Catholicism, St. Nicholas is the patron saint of children. His saint day falls in early December, which helped strengthen his association with the Yuletide season. Many European cultures not only welcomed the kindly man as a figure of generosity and benevolence to reward the good, but they also feared his menacing counterparts who punished the bad. Parts of Germany and Austria dread the beastly Krampus . . . Krampus's name is derived from the German word krampen, meaning claw, and is said to be the son of Hel in Norse mythology. The legendary beast also shares characteristics with other scary, demonic creatures in Greek mythology, including satyrs and fauns . . . [he] was created as a counterpart to kindly St. Nicholas, who rewarded children with sweets. Krampus, in contrast, would swat "wicked" children, stuff them in a sack, and take them away to his lair." [news.nationalgeographic.com]
Old St. Nicholas/Krampus Day celebration card picture courtesy of Pintrest [www.pinterest.com]
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