Introduction

Principles of Druidry was not an easy book for me to write. I was asked for an introduction that, essentially and effectively, defined the ancient roots and contemporary practice of Druidry - in simple terms and in no more than 45000 words. In order to achieve the task, I corresponded with and interviewed a good number of respected Druids of the time, including individuals representing a fair spread of the spectrum of the Druid community. If I was to come close to any kind of defining exposition, it would have to be an expression of more than my own understanding.

As a result, although it was not a richly personal book, it received a good deal of positive feedback when it was first published. Even now, some time since it has been in print, I continue to be asked where copies can be found. As a result, instead of letting it slip out of use or seeking another publisher, there seems more value and integrity in continuing to offer it as a resource for the community. This site thus gives the entire text of the book, as it was first published (but for the occasional very minor alteration), both on webpages and in pdf versions. Access to this book is free of charge; however, if you do print out this book, please consider contributing to The Druid Network Tree Planting and Conservation Fund.

However, ten years having passed since it was written, there feels a need to update the text in some way. I have therefore opened the book up for comment: beginners (the real target audience for such an introductory book) as well as those already well versed in the tradition are invited to send in contributions. These may be in the form of requests for more explanation where there appear to be gaps or omissions, or as comments that can be posted as such, credited to the writer. So does each chapter have a corresponding page of notes. (Accessed through links, I suggest you use the 'back' button to navigate between the chapter and notes.) If you would like to comment, please email me.

Blessings of serenity and awen

Emma Restall Orr
May 2007

Acknowledgements

I would like to restate acknowledgements made in the original text which ran thus:

This book is offered with sincere and soul-deep thanks to my son, Joshua, for his patience and wisdom, and to Philip Shallcrass, for being on so very many occasions my library, filled with information, laughter and affection. I thank too all those in the tradition who spoke to me of their beliefs and practice, and answered my questions with grace and generosity.

Hail, my Lord of the Golden Wings, whose flight has carried me through these words! Hail, my Lady of the Sparkling Depths, whose bright darkness showed me the reason why! Hail, blessed ancestors, Druids of Old, may your blessings remains with these words and all who touch them.

The photographs and other graphics that add such richness to the online text were put together by Nico Vermaas, and for this invaluable contribution, for his supportive and skilled work, I am immensely grateful. I thank Tony Eaglehart and Ri Mouse too for providing the pictures around the menu of this website.

I thank Jessie Laidlaw for typing out the manuscript and the following for proofreading and their suggestions for clarification: Jeanne Andrew, Willowwind, Bish Rosher, John Newton.