Cryptids are creatures that are often unseen and mysterious. They are shrouded in legends and stories that have been passed down for generations, making them a fascination for humans for centuries. If you're looking to add a little more creativity to your story writing, learning about these elusive beings can be a great way to do so. In today's post, we'll take a closer look at some examples of cryptids, to get your imagination racing.
Cryptids are mythical creatures or beings whose existence cannot be proven by science. Some may claim to have seen them but there's usually no solid proof of the encounter. They exist in folklore, mythology and urban legends. Cryptids can be found in cultures all around the world, from the Loch Ness Monster in Scotland to the in Latin America.
Here are ten cryptids you'll want to learn about this Halloween:
The Barghest is a ghostly black dog cryptid that appears in the folklore of Yorkshire and Lancashire. It is often associated with misfortune, and sightings of this ominous creature continue to be reported.
The Owlman is a humanoid creature with owl-like features such as red eyes, wings and feathers. Sightings of this mysterious creature have been reported around the village of Mawnan Smith in Cornwall, adding an eerie twist to local legend.
The Kraken is a legendary sea monster of gigantic size and octopus-like appearance, said to dwell in the deep sea and feasting on ships that are unfortunate enough to come across it.Ìý
The Water Leaper, also known as the Linton Worm or Lindworm, is a Welsh cryptid believed to inhabit bodies of water such as ponds and rivers. Descriptions vary, but it is often depicted as a fearsome water-dwelling creature.
The Shug Monkey, also known as the Shug Monkey Beast, is a cryptid that is said to be part dog and part monkey. It has a grotesque appearance with shaggy fur, fangs, and the ability to emit a blood-curdling scream.
Probably one of the most well-known examples of a cryptid, Bigfoot is described as a large, ape-like creature, often reported in remote forested areas.
The Lambton Worm is a creature of myth fromÌý. According to the story, John encountered a monstrous, serpentine creature in the River Wear in County Durham. This cryptid, depicted as either a giant worm or dragon, terrorized the local area.
Wendigos are believed to inhabit remote forests and desolate areas, particularly during winter. They are considered malevolent and bring death and misery to those who encounter them.
The Beast of Bodmin Moor, also referred to as the Bodmin Beast, is a legendary feline or a large, black, panther-like animal that is believed to wander around the wilderness of Bodmin Moor in Cornwall. The sightings of this mysterious creature have puzzled the inhabitants and tourists for many years.
Bownessie is a serpent-like creature with a long neck that reportedly inhabits Lake Windermere in England's Lake District. The creature has been compared to the legendaryÌý.
The existence of these mysterious creatures remains a riddle, yet the tales and stories that surround them add an aura of mystique and wonder. Cryptids can be found in almost every culture, and you may start noticing patterns among them. Additionally, you may observe the use of these legends in media, particularly in the fantasy genre. They may not have the same names, but they are undoubtedly an obvious source of inspiration.Ìý
Cryptids are not only subjects of curiosity, they are also valuable tools for crafting engaging narratives that resonate with readers and viewers alike. So whether you are an enthusiast of the unknown or simply enjoy a good supernatural tale, use these examples to ignite your creative storytelling and English writing skills. Try writing your very own story and see where your imagination takes you.Ìý
Interested in storytelling, Sci-fi fantasy? Make sure to check out our blog postÌýBooks to improve your English: Sci-fi and fantasy edition.
In a previous blog, we shared someÌýstrange English phrases that might have left you with some questions. The English language is full of peculiar phrases that can even confuse fluent speakers. In today's post, we'll take a look at a few more such phrases to help you expand your repertoire.
November marks , an excellent opportunity to improve your English skills. While there are several ways to enhance your proficiency in English, writing a novel is a lesser-known method that can significantly refine your understanding of the language. As well as enhancing your vocabulary and grammar, creating a story is an imaginative and fun way to unleash your creativity. So let's have a look at some things picking up the pastime can help you with.
It's a great way to improve your vocabulary naturally. As you create your story, you search for the perfect words to express your thoughts, which helps you explore synonyms, understand the nuances of language, and discover new phrases that can add depth and richness to your writing. Websites like and are excellent resources to enhance your word toolkit.
When you're writing, having a good grasp of grammar and syntax is vital. To clearly express your ideas, you need to navigate grammar rules with precision. Platforms like and Purdue OWLÌýprovide comprehensive guides and tools that can help you improve your grammatical skills. By regularly referring to useful resources as you write, you'll be able to identify and correct errors and also enhance your understanding of grammatical structures.
Writing novels are an excellent opportunity to develop a unique style of writing. You can discover your voice as a writer by trying out different narrative techniques and literary devices. Online writing communities like and Ìýprovide opportunities for collaboration and feedback, allowing you to receive helpful criticism and refine your writing style in a supportive environment.
If you want to create an awesome novel, you've got to read a lot. By diving into the world of literature, you get to experience all sorts of writing styles and pick up some great tips for telling a compelling story. Websites like , ÃÛÌÒapp Plus and offer a plethora of literary works, providing access to various genres and writing techniques. This kind of exposure enhances your reading comprehension and helps you discern the subtleties of language.
Creating a coherent and engaging narrative requires critical thinking skills. As you navigate the complexities of plot development and character arcs, you'll naturally get better and better at it. Websites like and offer resources to sharpen critical thinking skills, complementing the cognitive benefits gained through the novel-writing process.
As well as having educational uses, writing is a powerful tool that can be used to process complex emotions and ideas in a therapeutic way. Whether you are dealing with stress, anxiety, or just trying to make sense of a difficult situation, writing stories can provide an outlet for your thoughts and feelings. So, if you're looking for a way to process your emotions and ideas while having fun, novel writing may be your perfect outlet. It's also something you can do without any technology, so a great way to technology detox.Ìý
Writing a novel is not just about unleashing your creativity but also refining your grammar, enriching your vocabulary, developing a unique writing style, enhancing your reading comprehension and fostering critical thinking. Make sure to use all available resources and take inspiration wherever possible. Creative writing is a journey of constant improvement and self-discovery. You might surprise yourself.
Need some inspiration? Check out 9 great novels to help improve your English or Books to improve your English: Sci-fi and fantasy edition.
It's incredible to know that there are thousands of languages spoken across the world, each with its unique set of challenges for learners. A question that often pops up is: "Which language is the hardest to learn?". Today we take a closer look at this question and consider different factors that make learning a language challenging.
