Bone & Sickle

Bone and Sickle celebrates horror and folklore — their fertile intertwining and the strange fruit of their embrace – the genus sometimes known as “folk horror.” Every episode offers a bounty of frightful tales, fantastic legends, and macabre histories harvested by me, Al Ridenour. The pace of the show, no less than pace of the production is manic. Each episode is a sort of overstuffed grotesquely ornate bricolage of topics that have obsessed me in the last weeks. It’s full of witches, werewolves, blood, blood-drinkers, murder, wonderworkers, secret cabals, omens in the skies, weird things buried deep below, and strange superstitions that just might have some truth in them. All the sorts of things people like us find delightful. Notes for future shows, new ideas, new audio, images, keep piling up as I try to stay on schedule producing the show at hand. I hate to lose any of it. It’s all part of a magnificent story that should be shared. All the bits are needed to make the storytelling just the way it should be, more vivid, more absurd, and just a tiny bit creepier. I don’t want to make a podcast like any other. I want it to be transportive, immersive, and glutted with all the ghoulish detail it deserves, and that’s what your equally lavish generosity accomplishes. During the long, isolating process of writingThe Krampus and the Old, Dark Christmas, I realized, how difficult it can be just to sit on all this gold. It’s like holding a secret you’re bursting to tell, and then there are those tragic lost gems, the bits that don’t quite fit the constrained flow a written book.This (clearly less constrained) show was conceived as a sort of remedy to all this. It’s a way for me to record and share some of that content with all the giddy excitement intact. I’m currently working on a new book that embraces the themes of Bone and Sickle, and I’d love to take you along for the ride, share what I can, tease a bit more of what’s to come and pick up all those lost threads that inevitably weave themselves into some other sort of creepy self-weaving monster of a tapestry. Your donations help keep me on track. Practically, of course, they keep me from losing too many hours to work that is strictly about money, but more importantly, they tell me that – odd as it may seem -- people genuinely appreciate the work I’m doing and that they want more of it. Thank you for support and enthusiasm!!

Free

No reward, I just want to support this mad pursuit.

A WINK AND A NOD

Online Access: FOOTNOTES OF THE DAMNED
Unlock posts sharing extra written material that didn't make it into the show.  Includes original text and links to additional texts, videos, or music mentioned in the post or relevant to recent shows. (A few times weekly)

BLOG ACCESS

BONUS EPISODE The Bonus Episode, streamed via a private Patreon feed, features Mr. Ridenour reading from choice 19th and early 20th century sourcebooks on folklore, superstitions, antiquities, and historical oddities, all set against an appropriately moody soundscape. Shows are released once monthly and run 15-35 minutes.YOU ALSO RECEIVE ALL BENEFITS OF LOWER LEVELS:<ul><li>$2 LEVEL</li></ul>BLOG ACCESS Unlock posts sharing extra written material that didn't make it into the show. Includes original text and links to additional texts, videos, or music mentioned in the post or relevant to recent shows. (A few times weekly on average)

BONUS EPISODES

TRICK-OR-TREATReceive a hand-packed trick-or-treater's candy collection complete with our Mystery Egyptian Candy for 2025.You must subscribe via a one-time ANNUAL payment to receive the treat bag. The cost is $51. Annual payments offer 15% discount -- i.e., from 5 monthly payments of $5 ($60 annually).You will also unlock access to all Bonus Episodes streamed via a private Patreon feed. These feature Mr. Ridenour reading from choice 19th and early 20th century sourcebooks on folklore, superstitions, antiquities, and historical oddities, all set against an appropriately moody, droning soundscape. Also included through November are additional "Cabinet of Curiosities" shorts created by Sarah Chavez. Shows are released once monthly and run 15-30 minutes.YOU ALSO RECEIVE ALL BENEFITS OF LOWER LEVELS:<ul><li>$2 LEVEL</li></ul>BLOG ACCESS Unlock posts sharing extra written material that didn't make it into the show. Includes original text and links to additional texts, videos, or music mentioned in the post or relevant to recent shows. (A few times weekly on average)

TRICK-OR-TREAT

BONUS EPISODE plus SHOW SCRIPTS: The Bonus Episode, streamed via a private Patreon feed, features Mr. Ridenour reading from choice 19th and early 20th century sourcebooks on folklore, superstitions, antiquities, and historical oddities, all set against an appropriately moody soundscape. Shows are released once monthly and run 15-35 minutes. SCRIPTS: A Pdf version of the script for the month's show is supplied (Monthly reward). YOU ALSO RECEIVE ALL BENEFITS OF LOWER LEVELS:<ul><li>$2 LEVEL</li></ul>BLOG ACCESS Unlock posts sharing extra written material that didn't make it into the show. Includes original text and links to additional texts, videos, or music mentioned in the post or relevant to recent shows. (A few times weekly on average)

BONUS EPISODE plus SCRIPTS

SOUNDSCAPES Narration for each episode is removed allowing you to enjoy the rich, wall-to-wall soundscaping consisting of original music woven around ambient sounds, drones, effects, and snippets from films, old records, or other recordings. Make up your own narration! (Monthly reward) YOU ALSO RECEIVE ALL BENEFITS OF LOWER LEVELS:<ul><li>$8 LEVEL</li></ul> SHOW SCRIPTS: A Pdf version of the script for the month's show is supplied (Monthly reward).<ul><li>$4 LEVEL</li></ul>BONUS EPISODE: The Bonus Episode, streamed via a private Patreon feed, features Mr. Ridenour reading from choice 19th and early 20th century sourcebooks on folklore, superstitions, antiquities, and historical oddities, all set against an appropriately moody, droning soundscape. Shows are released once monthly and run 15-35 minutes. (Monthly)<ul><li>$2 LEVEL</li></ul>BLOG ACCESS Unlock posts sharing extra written material that didn't make it into the show. Includes original text and links to additional texts, videos, or music mentioned in the post or relevant to recent shows. (A few times weekly on average)

SHOW SOUNDSCAPES +more

YOUR CHOICE...If you pay annually -- your reward is shipped immediately. We'll discuss your choice at the time.If you pay monthly -- your reward is shipped after 6 months subscription. We'll discuss your choice via Patreon Messenger at the time.OPTIONS:1) THE KRAMPUS AND THE OLD DARK CHRISTMAS BOOK  My richly illustrated “gleefully erudite” survey of Krampus lore and history that’s been called “the definitive book on Krampus. With an inscription by the author if you like.<img src="https://www.boneandsickle.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/krampus-cover-4.jpg" title="">Starting in February, you may also select my 2025 book, A SEASON OF MADNESS: FOOLS, MONSTERS, AND MARVELS OF THE OLD-WORLD CARNIVAL, which looks at Carnival customs, many reminiscent of Krampus traditions. . With an inscription by the author if you like.<img src="https://www.boneandsickle.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/carnival-cover.jpg" title="">MONTHLY SUBSCRIBERS -- Book mailed after 6 months membership at this level (8 months for international supporters to accommodate higher postal costs). ANNUAL SUBSCRIBERS -- Book mailed immediately.YOU ALSO RECEIVE ALL BENEFITS OF LOWER LEVELS:IN ADDITION TO THE ABOVE, YOU ALSO RECEIVE ALL BENEFITS OF LOWER LEVELS:<ul><li>$12 LEVEL</li></ul>SOUNDSCAPES Narration for each episode is removed allowing you to enjoy the rich, wall-to-wall soundscaping consisting of original music woven around ambient sounds, drones, effects, and snippets from films, old records, or other recordings. Make up your own narration! (Monthly reward)<ul><li>$8 LEVEL</li></ul>SHOW SCRIPTS: A Pdf version of the script for the month's show is supplied (Monthly).<ul><li>$4 LEVEL</li></ul>BONUS EPISODE : The Bonus Episode, streamed via a private Patreon feed, features Mr. Ridenour reading from choice 19th and early 20th century sourcebooks on folklore, superstitions, antiquities, and historical oddities, all set against an appropriately moody, droning soundscape. Shows are released once monthly and run 15-35 minutes. (Monthly)<ul><li>$2 LEVEL</li></ul>BLOG ACCESS Unlock posts sharing extra written material that didn't make it into the show. Includes original text and links to additional texts, videos, or music mentioned in the post or relevant to recent shows. (Every few days)

CARNIVAL OR KRAMPUS BOOK +more

Annual Pledge -- you receive your book, video playlists, and merch immediately.Monthly Pledge -- you receive you rewards after 6 months (US) or 8 months (International).YOU RECEIVE...MR. RIDENOUR'S CARNIVAL BOOK(Inscribed with a dedication at your request)"A SEASON OF MADNESS:FOOLS, MONSTERS, AND MARVELS OF THE OLD-WORLD CARNIVAL"Growing out of Ridenour's study of the Krampus and Winter folk celebrations, his latest volume explores the traditions of early Spring, the "Fifth Season" of Carnival.Sumptuously illustrated with over one hundred historical and modern images and illustrations, "A Season of Madness" takes readers to cultural hinterlands where Carnival is more strange, more marvelous, and even a bit frightening. Where Spring is welcomed by clowns carrying inflated pig bladders, where stalking sheepskin monsters wave clubs bristling with hedgehog spines, and plows are dragged over cobblestone streets by celebrants in masks painted in cow's blood. Folk horror fans take heart as the Old World welcomes Spring.<img src="https://www.boneandsickle.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/cover.jpg" title="">**Also Included**UNLOCK BOOK COMPANION VIDEOSAccess to Mr. Ridenour's private YouTube playlist created for SEASON OF MADNESS. Included are 60+ videos depicting traditional processions and figures curated into playlists matching the themes and chapters of the book.  These are not videos an average user would easily find as they were sourced using a variety of specialized terms in foreign languages (including Cyrillic Bulgarian!).**Also Included**HUNGARIAN CARNIVAL STAMPS(While supplies last)Issued by the Hungarian Postal Serve in 1973, these collectible stamps depict figures of the folk Carnival known as Busójárás. We'll slip a few into an envelope when the book is mailed.<img src="https://www.boneandsickle.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/stamps.jpg" title="">**Also Included**MERCHANDISE (Choice of Mug or T-shirt)"MADNESS" MUGS Choice of two 11 oz mugs featuring illustrations from the book.(Photos show two sides of single mug)<ol><li>Medieval Carnival Musicians mug</li><li>Slovenian Carnival Monster (Kurent) mug</li></ol><img src="https://www.boneandsickle.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/mug-chariv-200.jpg" title=""><img src="https://www.boneandsickle.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/mug-kurent-200.jpg" title="">You can view these options on our Etsy store. Search "Bone and Sickle" and "Etsy" for images, variations, and info. "MADNESS" T-SHIRTSFeaturing illustrations from the book. In a wide array of cuts, sizes, colors.You'll be provided with a detailed menu for select shirt options when your pledge is complete.<ol><li>Carnival Fool led by Death w/ "Bone and Sickle Podcast"</li><li>"Party Like It's 1598 shirt" (16th-cent. German Carnival costumes)</li></ol><img src="https://www.boneandsickle.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/fool-shrt.jpg" title=""><img src="https://www.boneandsickle.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/party-shrt.jpg" title="">You can shirt options on our Etsy store. Search "Bone and Sickle" and "Etsy" for images, variations, and info.YOU ALSO RECEIVE ALL BENEFITS OF LOWER LEVELS:SOUNDSCAPES Narration for each episode is removed allowing you to enjoy the rich, wall-to-wall soundscaping consisting of original music woven around ambient sounds, drones, effects, and snippets from films, old records, or other recordings. Make up your own narration! (Monthly reward)SHOW SCRIPTS: A Pdf version of the script for the month's show is supplied (Monthly).BONUS EPISODE : The Bonus Episode, streamed via a private Patreon feed, features Mr. Ridenour reading from choice 19th and early 20th century sourcebooks on folklore, superstitions, antiquities, and historical oddities, all set against an appropriately moody, droning soundscape. Shows are released once monthly and run 15-35 minutes. (Monthly)BLOG ACCESS Unlock posts sharing extra written material that didn't make it into the show. Includes original text and links to additional texts, videos, or music mentioned in the post or relevant to recent shows. (Every few days)NOTE: If you continue your pledge past the first year, you will be automatically bumped up to the highest "MYSTERY BOX" level (while continuing to donate at your current rate.).

CARNIVAL KING, BOOK & GIFTS

YOUR CHOICE...OPTION 1: Mystery BoxBaffling!  Beautiful!  Creepy!  A selection of curious objects gathered by Mr. Ridenour from around his estate.  May include an actual bee from Mrs. Karswell's apiary.  Contents vary by mailing and year to year. This is an ANNUAL reward mailed after 6 months for supporters in the US, 8 months for international supporters (additional months to cover higher postal costs)  OPTIONS 2: Select two, Shirts and MugsBONE AND SICKLE MUGS <ol><li>St. Notburga Skeleton mug</li><li>Medieval Carnival mug</li><li>Slovenian Carnival Monster (Kurent) mug</li></ol><img src="https://www.boneandsickle.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/mug-notb-200.jpg" title=""><img src="https://www.boneandsickle.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/mug-chariv-200.jpg" title=""><img src="https://www.boneandsickle.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/mug-kurent-200.jpg" title="">You can view these options on our Etsy store. Search "Bone and Sickle" and "Etsy" for images, variations, and info. BONE AND SICKLE T-SHIRTSIn a wide array of cuts, sizes, colors:<ol><li>Dance of Death shirt</li><li>Party Like It's 1598 shirt</li><li>Murder Ghost shirt</li><li>St. Notburga Skeleton shirt</li><li>Krampus Sees You shirt</li></ol><img src="https://www.boneandsickle.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/fool-shrt.jpg" title=""><img src="https://www.boneandsickle.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/party-shrt.jpg" title=""><img src="https://www.boneandsickle.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/ghst-shrt.jpg" title=""><img src="https://www.boneandsickle.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/notb-shrt.jpg" title=""><img src="https://www.boneandsickle.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/KR-shrt.jpg" title="">You can view these options on our Etsy store. Search "Bone and Sickle" and "Etsy" for images, variations, and info.This is an ANNUAL reward mailed after 6 months for supporters in the US, 8 months for international supporters (additional months to cover higher postal costs) IN ADDITION TO THE ABOVE, YOU ALSO RECEIVE ALL BENEFITS OF LOWER LEVELS:<ul><li>$12 LEVEL</li></ul>SOUNDSCAPES Narration for each episode is removed allowing you to enjoy the rich, wall-to-wall soundscaping consisting of original music woven around ambient sounds, drones, effects, and snippets from films, old records, or other recordings. Make up your own narration! (Monthly reward)<ul><li>$8 LEVEL</li></ul>BONUS EPISODE plus SHOW SCRIPTS BONUS EPISODE: The Bonus Episode, streamed via a private Patreon feed, features Mr. Ridenour reading from choice 19th and early 20th century sourcebooks on folklore, superstitions, antiquities, and historical oddities, all set against an appropriately moody, droning soundscape. Shows are released once monthly and run 15-20 minutes. SCRIPTS: A Pdf version of the script for the month's show is supplied (Monthly reward).<ul><li>$2 LEVEL</li></ul>BLOG ACCESS Unlock posts sharing extra written material that didn't make it into the show. Includes original text and links to additional texts, videos, or music mentioned in the post or relevant to recent shows. (A few times weekly on average)

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