The Candle in the Field

The Candle in the Field is a rural legend originating from the western valley settlements. It tells of a lone light seen swaying across harvested fields during new moons.

Summary

According to the tale, the candle burns without fuel and without smoke. Farmers claim it appears near old scarecrows or at crossroads between fields. The light is said to follow travellers, keeping a fixed distance, until dawn dispels it.

Variants

• In the hill region, the candle becomes a lantern carried by a lost child.
• In coastal retellings, it’s said to be the soul of a drowned sailor, searching for his home.

Interpretations

Folklorists interpret the candle as a metaphor for isolation and cyclical labour — an echo of lanterns once carried by night guards watching over grain stores.

Notes

• First recorded mention in Collected Fables of the Western Valleys (1893).
• In some dialects, it’s called The Farthing Flame.