What is a Bard?
"Hear the voice of the Bard
Who present, past and future sees
Whose ears have heard the holy Word
That walked among the ancient trees."
- William Blake, first Song of Experience
Bards are keepers of tradition, of memory in the Path. In the Bardic subclass we open ourselves to the restorative power of the Druid's understanding of Nature. Practicing Druidry is about healing, reconnecting to our past and to the world of nature.
Working with record means working with the heritage, the mythology and stories of the Path. Working with inspiration means opening ourselves to our inner creativity. Bardic learning is a spiritual mode of artistic creative consciousness which is dynamic and living. The future holds as much, if not greater promise than the past.
Bards reach to the very heart of Druidry, the development of a mastery of the powers of generation, this involves the generation of creative works - of music, song, poetry and art in all its forms.
The Bard's knowledge of and skill with the power of the Word becomes magical with the Druid: understanding the creative force of sound, the Word is used to generate seeds of light that echo through creation.
Requirements
Bards are law abiding therefore you may have no red justice brands.
Generally, Bards enjoy the company of all. If you have earned the hatred (red brand) of a subpath you may be turned away. Contact a Druid Mystic with a full description of the reason for the negative branding. Defilers of Nature need not apply.
You must be blessed by the stars to show that you believe in magic.
As a friendly gesture you must Aid the Druids in the Mystic Garden.
To prove your Druidic knowledge you must be aligned with an element.
Bards are expected to be familiar with the world around them; therefore you must have at least one positive subpath branding (tournament wins do not count).
As proof of your prior knowledge to Bardism you must also bare the markings of a potential Bard. This can be shown in a number of ways, such as winning a story contest or being known as a master of the lore. Most marks recognizing storytelling or poetic ability will satisfy our requirement; you need only one.
Becoming a Bard
So you seek to learn more of the Wilderness lyricist? Possibly of our ways? Surely you have seen us, though our roots are deep in the fertile soil of nature we are only bound by the limits of our imagination. We are not simply eventist as many would see us; we seek to serve the community through our creativity and nearly endless inspiration. We are druids of the most artistic variety, always finding new ways to express ourselves and better the world around us.
Do you feel the tingle of excitement when a quill rests between your fingers? Are you generous by nature, a nurturer not a destroyer? Can you see and feel the true emotion in even the smallest form of art? You do not have to have a poetic body or even follow the druidic Gods to be a Bard in soul and heart.
Will you take on the Bardic path? It is not easy by any means, though it is not impossible either. A true Bard is open to any challenge that he or she may face, and often takes them on with a smile.
If you feel you fit the requirements you may send a letter to any Druid Mystic explaining why you feel you are a Bard. Please be as creative and thorough as you possibly can. Tell us your story and how you came to be so talented. You will be given a test, and if accepted your training will begin. Each step will require you to show your dedication to the community as well as challenge you with the various skills of Bardic Tradition.
Recognition
Four levels (with accompanying marks) are available for the community:
Ollaire Bard – The Principle Beginner
You have only just begun your training. Though you may have an idea of what you are meant to be, your full potential has not been realized.
Tamhan Bard – The Poet’s Attendant
It is through observation which we learn best. Watch those around you; learn where they draw their inspiration. It is through that gained knowledge which you now grow.
Drisac Bard – The Apprentice Satirist
As you venture out on your own your improvement is clearly seen. It is now your turn to expand and test your own talents.
Cli Bard – The Pillar
This is the ultimate goal for both the traveling and stationary Bard. Your art acts as a magnet, calling attention from all around. You have become a pillar in the community. Upon recognition as a Cli Bard you will be given a Dalan’s Quill of your choosing.