Queer Folklore: How Outsiders Find Sanctuary in Myths (Sasha Coward)

What happens when you don't fit into the "neat and orderly" versions of history taught in schools? You go underground. You find your truth in the stories, the monsters, and the high strangeness that society tries to ignore.In this episode, Craig sits down with historian and author Sasha Coward (Queer as Folklore) to map out the hidden, queer roots of our favourite myths. We’re exploring how the marginalised and the neurodiverse have used folklore as a sanctuary for centuries—and why those "weird" stories have always acted as a beacon for the outsider.In this episode, we cover:The Sanctuary of the Strange: From Victorian seances (and their surprisingly erotic loopholes) to the 90s goth subculture, we look at how the supernatural has provided a safe harbour for queer identity.Reclaiming the Monster: Why we aren't just "borrowing" myths like mermaids, unicorns, or werewolves—we helped create them.The Neurodiverse Connection: Why the "slanted" mind and the "wyrd" have always travelled together.Mothman & Florida Man: Craig mounts a spirited defence of the misunderstood Mothman, and we break down the tactical logistics of praising God from a highway sunroof at 70mph.Folklore isn't just a collection of dusty old stories; it’s a map of our true ancestral roots. Whether you're an outsider, a believer, or just someone looking for a bit of high strangeness, this conversation is for you.Follow Sasha Coward: Check out his book Queer as Folklore www.sachacoward.com https://www.instagram.com/sachacoward/A HUGE SHOUTOUT TO OUR BUY ME A COFFEE MEMBERS:Tenner, Dan, Vicky, Steph, Gabby, Andrew, John, Rosie, Nick, Simon, and Terry! Your support helps us keep the show going. Want to join our supporters, get live recording links, and access our Discord channels? Head over to the link below.Stay Wyrd!Help keep the lights on and join our Discord here: buymeacoffee.com/wyrdwessexBuy our merch here: https://www.redbubble.com/people/saxonforageruk/shop?asc=uWritten and hosted by Craig BrooksEdited by Craig BrooksIntro music by Antipodean Writer: Full of Soul - Neon Waves Extended - RemixOutro music by Colt Fingaz: Ding Ding Dong Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.