Silver John

Silver John is a fictional character from a series of fantasy stories by Manly Wade Wellman. Though fans refer to him as Silver John or as John the Balladeer, the character only ever gives his name as John.

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The stories are set in the Appalacian mountains of North Carolina. The time is never explicitly given but seems to be the middle of the twentieth century. John is a wandering singer who carries a guitar with silver strings. He frequently encounters creatures and superstitions from the folk tales and superstitions of the mountain people. Though John has no special skills or weapons, his courage, wit and essential goodness always allow him to triumph over supernatural evils.

Related Topics:
Appalacian - North Carolina - Twentieth century - Singer - Guitar - Silver - Folk tales

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The stories are rich in the customs and lore of the region and many of the folk songs John sings are authentic as well. Wellman did introduce some original songs and legends but his creations blend seamlessly with the traditional material. The stories of John have been collected three times, as Who Fears the Devil, John the Baladeer, and Owls Hoot in daytime and Other Omens.

Related Topics:
Folk song - Legend

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