Stranger Than Fiction: Being Tales from the Byways of Ghosts and Folk-lore

by Mary L. Lewes

"Stranger Than Fiction: Being Tales from the Byways of Ghosts and Folk-lore" by Mary L. Lewes is a collection of ghost stories and folklore written in the early 20th century. The book delves into the supernatural and the beliefs surrounding ghosts, particularly focusing on the rich tapestry of Welsh lore woven throughout its narratives. Through a combination of personal anecdotes, historical accounts, and local traditions, Lewes aims to preserve and explore the cultural significance of these tales. The beginning of this work introduces the reader to the pervasive interest in ghosts throughout history, illustrating how deeply rooted these beliefs are in various cultures. The author opens by quoting Omar Khayyam and discussing the skepticism towards ghosts that developed over time, contrasting it with the widespread belief in the supernatural during earlier centuries. Lewes presents ghostly encounters from different perspectives, including scholarly views, personal experiences, and folkloric traditions, alluding to specific incidents that will be recounted in later chapters. By interweaving the academic and the anecdotal, she sets the stage for a fascinating exploration of Welsh ghosts and superstitions that bridges the past and present.