Purkiamieji

Purkiamieji, sometimes referred to as "blowing people" or "puffers" in English, are a type of mythical creature found in some folkloric traditions, particularly in Eastern European mythology. These beings are generally depicted as small, often mischievous, spirits or imps. Their primary characteristic is their connection to air and breath, and their name often derives from words associated with puffing, blowing, or exhalation in their respective languages.

The nature of purkiamieji can vary. Some tales describe them as benevolent beings who can bring gentle breezes or carry messages on the wind. In other narratives, they are portrayed as more troublesome, capable of creating sudden gusts of wind, causing objects to blow away, or even whispering misleading words into people's ears. Their physical appearances are not consistently defined, but they are often imagined as having translucent or airy forms, sometimes with small wings. They are rarely described as physically imposing.

Interactions with purkiamieji are typically subtle, reflecting their ephemeral nature. They might be blamed for small disturbances like a door slamming shut unexpectedly or a fire suddenly flaring up. In some traditions, people might leave small offerings or perform specific rituals to appease or gain favor from these wind spirits. Their role in folklore often serves to explain natural phenomena related to air and wind, and to embody the unpredictable and sometimes playful nature of the elements.