From a This is True reader: The real question is not “Why is this man flying a broomstick?” but rather: “Why is this man flying a broomstick _backwards?” As any good witch knows, the bristles go in front–to hold the candle. (One of the earlier dangerous designs which made it to production…..

Hmph. Interesting question. I did a search on Google Images for broomsticks, and not a single image showed anyone flying in reverse. So I must assume that having the tail behind you is the standard position. But, as I note in my books, the broomstick is as happy going backwards as forwards, so I suppose what you propose is possible, although I would put it in the category of aerobatics, plus it would put the control area behind you. —Dave

American Flying Broomstick, Reader Comments