Tradition: American Mythology
Alternative Names: Feu-follet, Fifollet
Category: Flame
The Myth
The Fifollet is a mysterious wandering fire from Louisiana, whose legend derives from French tradition. It is believed to be the restless soul of a dead person, sent back from the afterlife to perform penance for their sins. Rather than fulfilling this punishment peacefully, however, the spirit may turn against the living, attacking people out of vengeance.
The Fifollet is usually associated with harmless mischief, but some legends claim that it sucks the blood of children. According to other accounts, it is the soul of a child who died before being baptized, returning to the world of the living as a wandering flame.
Sources
“Will-o’-the-wisp.” Wikipedia: The Free Encyclopedia. Wikimedia Foundation. Accessed October 10, 2026. Section: “Americas.” https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Will-o%27-the-wisp#Americas