Bluebells are a symbol of humility, gratitude, constancy and ever~lasting love. Bluebells are also associated with the Fairy Realm and when the flowers 'bells' are rung, this would call the wee folk to come together.
Another name for Bluebells is 'Dead Man's Bells' due to the belief that the fairies were thought to cast spells on those who picked or trod on them.
In Scotland they are widely known as 'Harebells' where it is believed that Witches would shape~shift into Hares and hide amongst the flowers.
Bluebells love partial shade and for this reason they are found in wooded areas. The dappled sunlight that filters down through the mature trees of Key Hill Cemetery in Birmingham, provides exactly the right setting for them to flourish all over the graves there.
Although when carved in stone the Bluebell is similar in appearance to the Lily~of~the~Valley, it's the narrow leaf and slimmer shaped bell that defines it here.
Emily Bronte 1850
'The Bluebell is the sweetest flower
that waves in summer air
its blossoms have the mightiest power
to soothe my spirit's care'
I haven't seen many bluebells in cemeteries, but they do like shade, it's true. :) Nice post!
ReplyDeleteWhat wonderful information! I had no idea. And your photo of the flowers is exquisite.
ReplyDeleteI'm a huge fan of the Victorian Cemetery and love all the symbolism that goes into the wonderful decoration on the markers which is so often lacking on more modern stones.
Delete