Average Reviews:
(More customer reviews)I'm not quite sure how to phrase my review of this unusual book. I liked it, as it was well written, well researched, and an enjoyable read. However, I must say that it conflicts with the teachings of other systems, and some of the techniques could be dangerous if misapplied. The mysterious author is amusing as he antagonizes 'Classical Ceremonial Magicians', unscrupulous gurus, and ignorant New Age dabblers, and I'm sure that he has made a number of enemies as a result of these criticisms. He has made a few valid observations, though, and it is good to expose certain characters for what they truly are.
I found the author's perspective of the spirit world very interesting, and I liked the way he compared and contrasted his perceptions of the dream state with the astral realm and OOBE/Remote Viewing. He also cautions the reader against idle experimentation, psychedellic drugs, and affiliating oneself with negative cult-like groups. On the other hand, he tends to ramble at times, makes several somewhat bizarre statements, and quotes from dubious sources like 'The Book of the SubGenius,' 'Principia Discordia,' and even the 'Necronomicon!' Although he rightfully acknowledges that certain of his sources (including the aforementioned) are fictional, and even presents his own non-fiction book as 'fiction' as well, it seems as though he really believes what he's saying. Perhaps (like the three aforementioned sources) it is a joke of some sort? Or maybe certain revolutionary truths can only be presented as fiction, because the author would be ridiculed and denounced if he claimed otherwise? Perhaps this is why he has chosen to keep his identity a secret?
The author is an 'anti-guru' who pokes fun at those who would presume to master others, a renegade who dares to reveal forbidden knowledge, a comedian who makes us laugh, and apparently a guide who truly walks the path of the warrior.
Recommended, but with reservations. If you are on an eclectic or shamanistic path, it may open your eyes to a great many profound truths. If you are on a wrongful or negative path, it may show you the error of your ways and steer you in the right direction. But if you are a New Ager who thinks the spiritual world is all 'goodness & light', or a rigid traditionalist lacking a healthy sense of humor, then this book is definitely not for you. I give it Four Stars.
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