sprens

Sprens are a fictional concept originating from Brandon Sanderson's Cosmere universe, specifically featured in The Stormlight Archive. They are described as manifestations of abstract concepts or emotions, taking on physical forms. For example, a spren might represent the concept of "wind" or the emotion of "joy."

These spren are not sentient in the traditional sense but are drawn to individuals who embody or frequently interact with the concept or emotion they represent. Their presence can vary widely, from small, fleeting motes of light to more complex, animated entities. Some spren are invisible to ordinary humans and can only be perceived by individuals with specific sensitivities or abilities, such as Knights Radiant.

The interaction between spren and individuals is a key element in the magic system of The Stormlight Archive. Certain spren can bond with individuals, granting them supernatural abilities. These bonds are often described as symbiotic, with both the spren and the individual benefiting from the connection. The type of spren bonded dictates the nature of the powers granted. For instance, honorspren are associated with loyalty and truth, and bonding with one can grant powers related to enhancing physical abilities and manipulating spiritual energy. Cryptics, spren of deception and patterns, are linked to illusion and information gathering.

The existence and behavior of spren are tied to the spiritual and emotional landscape of the Cosmere. They are fundamental to understanding the world and its magic. Different regions and cultures within the Cosmere may have varying interpretations and beliefs regarding spren, reflecting their diverse understanding of the abstract forces they embody.