Paul Giamatti’s CHINWAG with Stephen Asma

Sexy Black Magic

8 snips
Oct 9, 2024
Join Jim Gavin, the creative mind behind Lodge 49, as he uncovers the fascinating realms of alchemy and black magic. Discover the enigmatic figure Comenius and the secrets of the Voynich Manuscript. Delve into the allure of figures like Gilles de Rais and Aleister Crowley, exploring how magic dances with societal change. Gavin reveals the rising interest of Wiccan Paganism among youth and ponders the identity of the mysterious Fulcanelli. History, mystery, and a tantalizing touch of magic await!
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INSIGHT

Balancing Reality and Symbolism

  • Jim Gavin's writing in Lodge 49 explores the tension between literal and metaphorical.
  • He uses alchemy as a lens, suggesting it's about experiencing and interpreting signs in nature.
INSIGHT

Alchemy's Intuitive Nature

  • Alchemy bridges matter and spirit, encouraging intuition over pure intellect.
  • Epiphanies, similar to alchemy's goals, arise unexpectedly, not through intellectual enlightenment.
ANECDOTE

Gilles de Rais and Black Magic

  • Gilles de Rais, Joan of Arc's lieutenant, was later revealed as a child-killing murderer involved in satanic rituals.
  • This highlights the historical presence of black magic, contrasting with natural magic's focus on understanding nature.
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