Under a tuft of jet-black hair over his forehead they could see a curiously shaped cut, like a bolt of lightning.
J.K. Rowling, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone
With these words, as Professors McGonagall and Dumbledore bent over a wee bundle of blankets, we are introduced to the boy who lived, Harry James Potter. The muggle world has never been the same.
Over the years, I’ve featured many fandom-inspired candles including one from The Melting Library, but this one beats all. On July 31st (Harry’s birthday), Raquel revealed her plans for a new candle line in celebration of the chapters from the Harry Potter books and my heart leapt. The chapter titles themselves have become an indelible part of Potter love and lore. The concept, called Magic is Might Monthly, is truly genius:
- A new chapter-inspired candle is released every month and shipped during the first week of the following month.
- Not a subscription plan, customers are free to purchase any month’s offering they choose, for the window that it’s accessible.
- Two sizes are available: 12 oz. for $24.50 and 6 oz. for $12.50, which I chose.
Isn’t the jar darling? Originally, the candle was supposed to come in an amber-colored jar, but there was a supply issue which led to an alternate color. I’m happy for the change. Deep garnet-red frosted apothecary glass with hand-drawn artwork and chapter quote on the label. This design features art by Jane from Bergen Place Greetings. It makes me want to scoop up baby Harry and whisk him away from the Dursleys forever. Alas, his challenging course cannot be altered as he must weather his fate.
The real cork lid has a slit underneath to ensure a snug fit over the thin wooden wick. The Boy Who Lived is scented in London Fog/Autumn Leaves/Woolen Blankets, a proper fragrance for evoking the chilly night when Hagrid rides through the sky to deliver sleeping Harry to Dumbledore.
The scent is perfect. I’m not sure which oils make up London Fog, but it’s smoldering sweetness provides a delicate fantasy note. I detect a hint of amaretto, nutty and sweet, while a distant smokiness lingers. Playful autumn leaves ride the breeze and gentle tones of talcum, woods and wool feather an innocence and comfort.
So often, these smaller ‘triple-scented’ candles are a disappointment as one note inevitably dominates. But for perhaps the first time, I’m completely satisfied. The crisp leaves are prominent, but add to the overall complexity rather than overpowering the other layers. The scent throws light-medium in my living room and imparts a wistful feeling while being warm and fuzzy at the same time.
The Melting Library won’t be creating one for every chapter, as apparently that would take 16 years; however, the most magical and beloved moments will be represented. October’s candle features The Keeper of the Keys, (the Boy Who Lived is no longer available) and Raquel is announcing November’s chapter creation this upcoming week. Find The Melting Library site here, or on Instagram. I’m crossing fingers for Diagon Alley next.
I hadn’t been quite ready for a reread until I burned this candle and thumbed through my illustrated edition. Lately, I’ve come to appreciate the impact of a well-written chapter on the entire impression of the book, especially with The Name of the Wind, which I recently finished. What book chapters, HP or otherwise, are important to you?
The Scented Library 