hervivók

Hervivók is a term used in Hungarian folklore and mythology to describe beings that cause decay and wilting. They are often associated with the decline of plants, the drying up of water sources, and the general deterioration of the natural world. These entities are not necessarily malicious in intent but are seen as a natural, albeit unwelcome, force of change and entropy.

Descriptions of hervivók vary, but they are typically depicted as shadowy, ethereal figures or as small, elusive creatures. They are said to inhabit desolate places, such as swamps, abandoned ruins, or barren fields. It is believed that their presence alone can drain the life force from living things, leading to their eventual demise. Some legends suggest that hervivók are born from negative emotions or from the decay of forgotten things, while others link them to specific seasons, particularly autumn and winter.

While there isn't a single, unified myth surrounding hervivók, they appear in various regional folktales and superstitions across Hungary. They serve as a personification of the inevitable processes of decay and aging that are part of the natural cycle. Unlike more overtly malevolent spirits, hervivók are often seen as a neutral force, a reminder of the transience of life and the constant presence of entropy. Encounters with hervivók are generally avoided, and people might employ certain charms or rituals to keep them at bay, not out of fear of outright destruction, but to preserve vitality and ward off premature decay.