Myths and Legends: Episode 399 – Canadian Folklore: Wild Night
Release Date: December 31, 2024
Hosts: Jason Weiser, Carissa Weiser
Produced by: Nextpod
Introduction
In Episode 399 of Myths and Legends, hosts Jason and Carissa Weiser delve into the captivating world of Canadian folklore, presenting the chilling tale of "Wild Night." This episode transports listeners to the harsh yet enchanting Canadian wilderness of the 19th century, unraveling a story of camaraderie, temptation, and supernatural consequences among French Canadian loggers.
Setting the Scene: Logging in 19th Century Canada
The episode begins with Jason setting the stage, explaining the paradox of winter logging. Contrary to modern perceptions, logging in 19th-century Canada primarily occurred during the winter months. The frozen ground and low sap flow made tree-cutting more manageable, and logs were later transported to sawmills as the thaw arrived.
Quote:
Jason Weiser [00:00]: "Logging actually took place primarily in the winter back then, when the trees would be easier to cut... they would send the logs down the river to the sawmills and they would get to go home in early summer."
This routine explains why a group of loggers found themselves isolated in the far north for New Year's, highlighting their desire to return home and avoid the perils of the wilderness.
The Story of Baptiste Durant and the Flying Canoe
Central to the episode is the legend of Baptiste Durant and the mythical flying canoe, Le Chasse Galerie. Baptiste, a seasoned woodsman, shares his firsthand account of an extraordinary New Year's Eve when eight men, desperate to return home, made a fateful pact.
Quote:
Jason Weiser [00:00]: "The creature this time is a giant goat with swivel horns who's held in way higher regard than he probably deserves."
The narrative unfolds with Baptiste recounting how Sebastien Lassell, a fellow woodsman, encountered a supernatural canoe that could fly, offering a tantalizing shortcut home but at a sinister cost.
The Legend: Le Chasse Galerie
Le Chasse Galerie is a quintessential Quebecois tale blending elements of folklore and morality. The men agree to travel in the flying canoe, invoking a pact that requires absolute adherence to specific rules:
- Do not swear by God's name.
- Avoid touching church steeples during the flight.
- Remain sober and refrain from alcohol.
Failure to comply would result in the loss of their souls to the devil.
Quote:
Joe the Cook [07:00]: "It's scary. Yeah, but you got to go party with your girlfriend and fly, and you're still talking about that one fun night you had like 40 years later."
Despite initial reluctance, peer pressure and the allure of reuniting with loved ones compel Joe and his companions to embark on the perilous journey, demonstrating the human struggle between desire and prudence.
The Narrative Twist: Temptation and Betrayal
As the men soar through the night sky, the strict rules are soon jeopardized. Baptiste, under the influence of alcohol, becomes careless, leading to near-disastrous encounters with church steeples. His betrayal culminates in an attempt to sabotage the flight, resulting in chaos and the canoe hurtling uncontrollably toward the pine forests below.
Quote:
Baptiste Durant [15:30]: "Canoes can fly. How is that proof?"
The tension peaks when Baptiste's actions nearly doom the entire group, highlighting themes of trust, desperation, and the dire repercussions of breaking sacred oaths.
The Aftermath and Reflection
Miraculously surviving the ordeal, most of the men return to camp unharmed, save for Baptiste, whose fate remains ambiguous. Joe reflects on the haunting nature of the legend, emphasizing the importance of contentment and the dangers of overreaching desires.
Quote:
Joe the Cook [32:00]: "You shouldn't actually go do it. Don't make it sound so fun. Then the kid pointed... He was going to go find some guys."
This reflection serves as a moral lesson, cautioning against the allure of supernatural shortcuts and the importance of appreciating one's present circumstances.
Creature Feature: The Yale (Centicore)
In addition to the main story, the episode features an exploration of the Yale, a formidable creature from European folklore. Described as a massive goat-like beast with swiveling horns, an elephant's tail, and wild boar-like jaws, the Yale embodies the mythical qualities of power and unpredictability.
Quote:
Jason Weiser [50:00]: "The Yale or Centicore is like if a goat was the size of a horse, but also the horns could move in any direction to defend or attack."
The hosts delve into the Yale's origins, its depiction in heraldry, and its symbolic connection to institutions like Yale University, blending historical context with mythological fascination.
Conclusion and Insights
Jason and Carissa conclude the episode by discussing the cultural significance of Le Chasse Galerie, linking it to broader themes of masculinity, religion, and survival in folklore. They highlight academic perspectives on how such stories reflect the identities and moral landscapes of the communities that birthed them.
Quote:
Jason Weiser [55:00]: "In this one, Arnardo Clared talks about masculinity in these camps and how alcohol, dangerous working conditions, physical strength, isolation and risk taking became a core piece of many masculine identities."
The episode underscores the enduring power of folklore in shaping and reflecting societal values, offering listeners both entertainment and thoughtful analysis.
Final Thoughts and Show Notes
The Weiser siblings remind listeners of the podcast's shift to a bi-weekly schedule and encourage engagement through various platforms, including Instagram and Discord. They also provide additional resources and musical credits, enriching the listener experience.
Quote:
Jason Weiser [60:00]: "It's a cautionary tale. You shouldn't actually go do it. Don't make it sound so fun."
Listeners are left with a deeper appreciation for the rich tapestry of Canadian folklore and its ability to convey timeless lessons through mesmerizing narratives.
Credits:
Myths and Legends is by Jason and Carissa Weiser.
Theme song by Broke for Free.
"Creature of the Wheat" music by Steve Combs.
Connect with Us:
- Website: mythpodcast.com
- Membership: @mythpodcast.com membership
- Apple Podcasts: Myths and Legends
- Instagram: @mythsandlegends
- Discord: Join the community on Discord
Thank you for tuning into Myths and Legends. Join us next episode as we continue to explore the fascinating stories that have shaped cultures across the globe.