The trays you hold the captivating spell Trays are often seen as simple vessels meant to hold and transport various items. However, they can also serve as powerful tools for enchantment and captivation. These seemingly ordinary objects possess the ability to cast a captivating spell on those who behold them. Trays, with their flat surface and raised sides, create a contained space that draws our attention and focus. The structured framework of a tray provides a sense of order and purpose, as if inviting us to engage with what it holds. Whether it be an array of delectable treats, an assortment of trinkets, or a collection of precious items, trays have the power to lure us in and captivate our senses.
Whether it be an array of delectable treats, an assortment of trinkets, or a collection of precious items, trays have the power to lure us in and captivate our senses. The captivating spell that trays cast is rooted in the art of presentation. The way objects are arranged and displayed on a tray can create a visual feast for the eyes.
What's The History Of Vermont's 'Witch Windows'?
You might have seen this architectural oddity on an old Vermont farmhouse, even if you didn’t know what to call it.
It’s one of those upstairs windows that’s set on a diagonal.
Or, as State Architectural Historian Devin Colman explains it, "It’s the crooked window tucked up under the eaves in the gable end — and it’s just tucked in there at a crazy angle."
A lot of Vermonters call them "witch windows." But why? Where does that name come from, and why are these windows installed in the first place?
This is what Aaron Troncoso, of Burlington, was wondering when he posed a question to Brave Little State, VPR's people-powered journalism podcast.
"What is the history of Vermont's witch windows? And why do they only exist in Vermont?" — Aaron Troncoso, Burlington
It's just one of the questions that Brave Little State took on in its recent episode: Your Vermont History Fix, From Gold Mines To Witch Windows.
Devin Colman, who works for Vermont’s Division for Historic Preservation, says there’s superstitious lore behind the name, "witch window."
"The story is that a witch on a broomstick can’t fly through a crooked window opening, which I guess physically is true," says Colman.
"But, it’s the only crooked window in the whole house. And if I were a witch, I would just use one of the other vertical windows," he adds with a laugh.
Credit Aaron ShrewsburyAnd Colman says there’s another theory that doesn’t quite add up.
"You’ll also hear them referred to as coffin windows," he says. "The idea being that it’s difficult to maneuver a coffin with a body from the second floor down to the first floor in these narrow staircases, so slide it out through the window and down the roof — which does not seem any easier. And, if you think about it, you wouldn’t carry a coffin upstairs to put a body in it. You would bring the body downstairs and put it in the coffin on the first floor. So, I don’t think that holds a lot of truth there."
Britta Tonn is an architectural historian in the Burlington area, and she's skeptical about that origin story, too. But she's willing to concede it might be "another convenient use of the window once it was developed."
"I think they’re just a really great piece of vernacular Vermont architecture that really kind of points to how unique Vermont is and how resourceful farmers were," says Tonn.
Colman says the real origin of the witch window is probably much less interesting: "My interpretation as an architectural historian is that it’s simply a really practical New England response to the need to get daylight and fresh air into a second-story room."
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You'll often see a witch window above a one-story addition to an old farmhouse.
"And typically, if you’re adding on a wing to a house, you’re covering up windows," Colman explains. "So you’ll have an extra window sitting around, and why not just angle it and tuck it in that little section of wall space?"
In a word, Colman says: "Frugality."
As to why the windows are only found in Vermont — well, they aren’t.
"It’s not specific to Vermont," says Colman. "I think it’s more prevalent, but you do find them in rural areas in New Hampshire and Maine and other parts of New England."
In other places, they’re simply referred to as crooked, or angled, windows. That being said, both Devin Colman and Britta Tonn agree that highest concentration of witch windows is in 19th-century farmhouses in north-central Vermont. And Colman says we might be the only ones to call them “witch windows” — and tell those stories associated with the name.
"It seems like the 'witch window,' and that explanation, might be unique to Vermont," he says. "Because none of my colleagues in other states had ever heard that, and thought it was an interesting theory."
Around here they’re also called Vermont windows, and lazy windows. And of course there’s endless fun to be had with the question of “which witch?” — as in this architectural history joke Tonn shares:
"Someone, a tourist, will be driving by and ask the local, ‘Hey, why does that window look so funny in that house?’ And the local will say, ‘Which window?’ And the tourist says, “Ok, great, thanks.’ And they drive off."
Or perhaps the crooked window just doesn't know which way to go.
Brave Little State has support from the VPR Journalism Fund. Our editor is Lynne McCrea, and our theme music is by Ty Gibbons. Other music in this segment was used under a Creative Commons license:
- "The Dance" by David Szesztay
- "Lightfeet" by Podington Bear
What does that mean?
Colors, shapes, and textures blend harmoniously, beckoning us to explore and uncover their hidden beauty. Every item on the tray has a purpose and story to tell, and it is up to us to immerse ourselves in the enchanting world that the tray presents. Trays can also captivate through their functionality. While they may appear simple, the way they are designed and crafted can elevate the experience of using them. A well-crafted tray fits seamlessly into our daily rituals, making mundane tasks feel special and significant. Whether it's serving breakfast in bed, organizing our desk supplies, or displaying our cherished belongings, trays have the ability to transform the ordinary into the extraordinary. Beyond their physical attributes, trays hold a deeper symbolism that contributes to their captivating spell. They represent a sense of hospitality and care, as they are often used to serve and offer. They embody a sense of intentionality and thoughtfulness in how we present ourselves and our belongings. Trays remind us to take pride in our surroundings and to curate our lives with purpose and beauty. In a world that often seems chaotic and overwhelming, trays offer a semblance of order and tranquility. They hold the power to captivate and enchant us, allowing us to momentarily escape from the demands of daily life. With their captivating spell, trays remind us of the importance of slowing down, savoring the present moment, and finding beauty in the simplest of things. So the next time you come across a tray, take a moment to appreciate its captivating essence and the enchantment it holds..
Reviews for "The Transformative Power of Trays: Enhancing Your Everyday Routines"
1. Jane - 1/5 stars - I was really disappointed with "The trays you hold the captivating spell". The premise sounded intriguing, but the execution fell flat for me. The characters lacked depth and the plot seemed disjointed. The writing style also didn't engage me and I found myself struggling to get through the book. Overall, I couldn't connect with this story and it left me feeling unsatisfied.
2. Mark - 2/5 stars - I had high hopes for "The trays you hold the captivating spell" but unfortunately it didn't live up to my expectations. The pacing of the story was slow, and I found myself losing interest halfway through. The magic system was also confusing and not well-explained, which made it difficult for me to fully immerse myself in the world. While there were some interesting ideas, the execution was lacking and I ultimately couldn't find myself enjoying this book as much as I had hoped.
3. Sarah - 2/5 stars - I struggled to get through "The trays you hold the captivating spell". The writing felt disjointed and the dialogue was stilted. I also found it hard to keep track of the multiple storylines and characters, which made it difficult for me to fully invest in the story. The overall plot had potential, but it fell short in its execution. I didn't feel emotionally connected to the characters and the resolution felt rushed. Overall, this book just didn't resonate with me and left me feeling underwhelmed.