James Wasserman: In the Center of the Fire A Memoir of the Occult 1966–1989
Coming 15 June from the incomparable James Wasserman: In The Center of the Fire...
A stone's throw away from the Velvet Underground and Andy Warhol's Factory, William Burroughs' "bunker," and the legendary Chelsea Hotel was a scene far more esoteric than perhaps even they could have imagined. In this daring exposé by a survivor of a unique era in the New York occult scene, James Wasserman, a longtime proponent of the teachings of Aleister Crowley, brings us into a world of candlelit temples, burning incense, and sonorous invocations. He also introduces us to the company of such avant-garde luminaries as Alejandro Jodorowsky, Harry Smith, Kenneth Anger, and Angus MacLise.
The author, the founder of New York City's TAHUTI Lodge of Ordo Templi Orientis, traces its early history and provides a window into the heyday of the Manhattan esoteric community—centered around Samuel Weiser's Bookstore and the Magickal Childe. In addition, he meticulously chronicles the copyright contest over the Crowley literary estate, of which he was an important participant. Finally, he breaks decades of silence concerning one of the most seminal events in the development of the modern Thelemic movement — detailing his role in the 1976 magical battle between Marcelo Motta and Grady McMurtry. Long slandered for his effort to heal the temporary breach between the Orders of A.'.A.'. and O.T.O., James Wasserman sets the record straight.
One of Thelema NOW's all time favorite guests is back. James Wasserman gives us the lowdown on his book The Temple of Solomon: From Ancient Israel to Secret Societies. Find out what a trip to Israel meant to Mr. Wasserman, his opinions on the Bible, and being at one with his God.