In the Vosges, will-o’-the-wisps are called “cûlas”, and some believe they are small magical goblins, similar to sotrés, mischievous creatures from local folklore.
These lights, often seen in cemeteries or peat bogs, are in reality emissions of flammable gases, but their mythological origin continues to stir the imagination.
It is in this mysterious setting that the story unfolds of a road worker fascinated by fire, living in an isolated farmhouse in the Vosges.
One night, he sees will-o’-the-wisps. Drunk on the legend of a beggar who once found wealth and glory thanks to those glowing lights, he lets himself be tempted and ventures into the bog.
Despite his efforts to escape, he is swallowed by the earth — a victim of his dreams and irrational quest for fortune and power.
A few days later, only his hat is found, leaving behind his tragic adventure, a warning about the dangers of chasing illusions.