Your average witch is not, by nature, a social animal as far as other witches are concerned. There's a conflict of dominant personalities. There's a group of ringleaders without a ring. There's the basic unwritten rule of witchcraft, which is 'Don't do what you will, do what I say.' The natural size of a coven is one. Witches only get together when they can't avoid it.
[This quote offers a humorous yet insightful commentary on the solitary nature of witches and the power dynamics within witch communities. It suggests that witches are inherently independent, valuing their autonomy over collective social bonds. The image of 'ringleaders without a ring' evokes the idea of leadership that is informal and perhaps fraught with rivalry, highlighting the lack of structured hierarchy among witches. The unwritten rule of obedience underscores the notion that cooperation in witchcraft is born more out of necessity than genuine camaraderie. This portrayal can serve as a metaphor for any group dynamic governed by unspoken rules and individualism, emphasizing that true independence often comes at the expense of collective unity. The mention of the coven being naturally a solo endeavor aligns with historical and cultural portrayals pervasive in literature and folklore, where witches are often depicted as loners or mavericks, not forming tight-knit communities unless circumstances force them to. This reflection encourages a look at how independence, authority, and social cohesion interrelate within groups, especially in contexts where individual power is emphasized. It also invites readers to consider their own tendencies toward independence versus community, and how unspoken rules can influence group behavior.
( Witches Abroad ) - author: 'Terry Pratchett'
