La Libellula (The Dragonfly)

I’ve always loved the look of dragonflies, but had never really experienced them first hand until I moved out to the country and saw how truly magical they really are. Dragonflies come in the most luscious colors, brilliant blue, emerald green, bright scarlet and a whole array of shimmering shades.

Many, many moons ago, before scientists uncovered the benign agenda of this gorgeous creature, they were thought to have had magical and often sinister powers. Early-American children were forewarned that if they behaved badly, a dragonfly would sew their eyes and ears shut in their sleep. In Swedish folklore, dragonflies worked for the Devil himself, and had the power to weigh human souls – and pick out their eyes. Poor dragonflies! It would be centuries until they got the love and appreciation they deserved.

Asian cultures regard dragonflies as holy animals. In fact, the Emperor of Japan named his city “Akitsushima” which translates as “The Isles of the Dragonfly”. Today, Japan is the global leader in the study of dragonflies. However, in some parts of Asia – they love them…to death! And eat them as a delicacy. This is not that unusual. In Bali, dragonflies are fried with coconut oil and spices. In Thailand, their larvae are served roasted.

Let’s change the channel for a second, and have a think about a lovely drink called The Dragonfly. I may have to raise a glass in the real dragonfly’s reverence, as it is a symbol of victory, courage and happiness.

1 1/2 oz gin4 oz ginger ale1 lime wedge

In a highball glass almost filled with ice cubes, combine the gin and ginger ale. Stir well. Garnish with the lime wedge.

But dragonflies aren’t just a pretty face. They are bugs which establish a specific fight pattern to patrol their given area for food. The dragonfly, believe it or not, pre-dates the dinosaur, its needle-like body frightening onlookers. But dragonflies have no stinger, and really only want to go about their business – so if you see one, don’t kill it! It’s thought to bring about an entire string of unfortunate events. Merely observe and know how lucky you are that one of these gorgeous daredevils found you. In Zuni legend, they ar shamanistic with supernatural powers. If you’ve ever seen one in person, it’s hard not to believe this is true.