Inspiration and substance added to the material of the pen:
Wild Rose
Magical attribution ascribed in myths:
Love and passion
Depicted in romantic movies and novels as the most commonly recognized symbol of love, we couldn’t think of a more suitable flower than the wild rose as the inspiration behind our special St. Valentine’s Day edition pen. With a legacy of legends and myths that claim its origins, the rose has been used throughout history in love potions, spells and enchantments. So, how exactly did this romantic flower come to earn its fame as the flower of love?
The rose dates back as far as 5000 years ago, when its cultivation was thought to have begun in China - although it wasn’t until the late 18th century that the rose finally made it to Europe. Fossil evidence suggests, however, that this ancient flower existed over 35 million years ago. With its extensive history, it’s no surprise that this enchanting flower appears in a string of ancient stories and folklore.
Perhaps the earliest citation of the wild rose can be found in Greek mythology and the story of the legendary wedding between Psyche, the goddess of Soul, and Eros, the god of Love. Following the pair’s romantic union, the entire Earth was a-glow with roses scattered in celebration.
Another Greek story tells the tale of Aphrodite, the Goddess of beauty and love, as she emerged from the sea adorned with beautiful pure white roses. However, upon learning of the tragic death of her lover, Adonis, her tears stained the white roses a deep blood red - the color we associate with the romantic rose today.
From Greece to Egypt, it is said that queen Cleopatra would request to have roses laid about her so that her betrothed, Marc Anthony, would think of her whenever he was greeted by the flower’s sweet smell.
Native American tribes viewed the wild rose as life force, a gift of strength, and a protector from malicious spirits. They would knit roses into their quillwork and place beads in the flower’s iconic shape. To many tribes, the rose was seen as a symbol of survival and vitality. Wild roses also played a role in traditional Native American herbal medicine, and rosehips (the fruit of wild roses) were often eaten as a delicacy.
Fast forward to more recent times, roses are used in modern-day love spells, with Tarot readers believing this flower to represent promise, hope, balance, and new beginnings. The botanical term for wild rose is “species rose”, which refers to the fact that this curious bud occurs naturally and without mankind’s help. A true “wildflower”, roses are becoming a more popular choice amongst garden enthusiasts due to the flower’s low maintenance.
If you’ve a thirst for further tales and legends surrounding the rose, grab yourself a cup of tea and make yourself comfy, because there’s plenty more! On the subject of tea, the petals of this magical plant are historically used in special infusions to induce dreams of one’s future mate. And still today, it is not unknown to find rose-flavored tea at your local coffee shop.
And of course, no rose homage is complete without honoring the world’s most famous day of love, St. Valentine’s Day. Lovers far and wide claim their adoration for one another through the gifting of a bouquet of beautifully fresh wild roses!
So, from Greek myths to modern-day love potions, this prickly shrub has made quite the stir in the flower world and beyond. If you consider yourself a fan of flowers, we’re sure that Wild Rose, our most romantic pen yet, will not disappoint!