The Piskey-Purse: Legends and Tales of North Cornwall

by Enys Tregarthen

"The Piskey-Purse: Legends and Tales of North Cornwall" by Enys Tregarthen is a collection of folkloric stories, likely written in the early 20th century. This work showcases various enchanting tales centered around the mystical beings known as Piskeys and other fairies, celebrating the rich folklore of Cornwall. The stories feature characters such as the children Gerna and Gelert, who interact with fairy folk in their adventures, highlighting themes of kindness, curiosity, and the magical interplay between the human and fairy worlds. At the start of the story, we are introduced to Gerna and Gelert, two siblings living with their great-grandmother near Polzeath Bay. The children are captivated by tales of the merry Piskeys, particularly during one evening when they witness the Piskeys dancing on the cliffs. Gerna soon finds a peculiar Piskey-purse while searching for limpets, which is enchanted and houses a tiny creature that pleads for her help. This opening sets the stage for a blend of adventure and moral reflection, as Gerna must navigate her desire for wealth against her empathy for the captive within the purse, highlighting the central theme of selflessness versus greed.