Home

1) Monster Spotlight

Welcome to our first Monster Spotlight on Fangs and Fables! Today, we’re delving into the bizarre and intriguing world of the Kosovar vampire watermelon.

2) Legendary Lore

The vampire watermelon was a mythical entity believed to be a cursed or malevolent form of the common watermelon fruit. This myth originated from the folklore of the Roma people of Kosovo, a region situated in Southeast Europe in the central Balkans, and was documented in the mid-1900s by folklorist Tatomir Vukanovic.

3) Life and Death Cycle

Birth – Watermelons, a staple crop in Kosovo, were believed to give rise to these malevolent fruits naturally, growing from seeds like their ordinary counterparts. However, according to folklore, if a watermelon was left uneaten for more than ten days or past Christmas, it was said to undergo a transformation, becoming a vampire. One could supposedly discern this change by the appearance of blood droplets on its skin.

Predation – These peculiar fruits were believed to display mischievous behaviour, rolling around of their own accord and emitting growling noises, much to the annoyance of the living.

Defences – The simplest method of defence against the vampire watermelon may be to simply avoid leaving it out for too long.

Death – People could destroy them by plunging them into a pot of boiling water. Afterwards, the water used for boiling the fruits would be poured away, and the vegetables would be scrubbed with a broom before being discarded. The broom used for scrubbing would then be burned.

4) Iconic Quotes

“There are only two plants which are regarded as likely to turn into vampires: pumpkins of every kind and water-melons”

Tatomir Vukanović, Journal of the Gypsy Lore Society.

“In Ghat they believe in vampire watermelons, although folklore is silent about what they believe about vampire watermelons. Possibly they suck back.”  

Terry Pratchett, Carpe Jugulum.

5) Behind the Shadows

What captivates me about this myth is the fusion of an innocuous fruit with supernatural elements and malevolent intentions. Additionally, the image of it rolling around, pestering the living, adds a delightful touch of fun! Although not for watermelon farmers I’m sure.

6) Unmasking the Myth

The legend of the Kosovar vampire watermelon serves as a cautionary tale against the potential health risks of consuming rotten or spoiled fruit or vegetables. As Vukanović also noted, “pumpkins of every kind” could become vampires if left out for too long. I’m pretty sure I have an army of vampire avocados lurking in my kitchen.

7) Reimagined Renditions

While mentions of the Kosovar vampire watermelon are relatively rare, Terry Pratchett’s 1998 book ‘Carpe Jugulum’ introduces the belief in vampire watermelons among the inhabitants of Ghat. Additionally, the webcomic ‘Digger’ features a depiction of a “cursed veggie” vampiric squash.

8) Fear Factor

With their relatively harmless nature, vampire watermelons pose little threat, unless you happen to be allergic to them. Hence, we can safely classify this mythical creature as a benign 1/10 on the fear scale.

9) Monster metrics

As a relatively rare creature, the vampire watermelon remains largely obscure compared to more mainstream monsters. However, references in works like Terry Pratchett’s writings may have somewhat elevated its visibility. Thus, I’d rate it a modest 2/10 for infamy.

10) Consider this

Curious about the vampire watermelon legend? Here’s something to ponder: What other fruits or vegetables do you think could make captivating vampires in folklore? We’ve already seen vampire pumpkins, which might be more menacing than watermelons, they’re harder (as anyone attempting to carve them for Halloween can attest). Bananas would likely transform into vampires instantly.

For my pick, consider the pomegranate. Its deep red hue and ties to mythology and the underworld across cultures could inspire a vampire with an irresistible allure, complete with blood-like seeds and a taste that ensnares its prey. Another intriguing option is the fig, with its dark skin and sweet interior, possibly yielding a vampire with a deceptive appearance and a penchant for hidden desires. The possibilities for vampire produce are endless!

Share your thoughts and ideas in the comments below!