Episode 36: Robert Anton Wilson's The Sex Magicians
Aug 23, 2024
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Michelle Olly, a talented writer and theater producer, and Gregory Arnott, a skilled magician and educator, dive into the re-release of Robert Anton Wilson's *The Sex Magicians*. They explore the cultural revolution of the early 70s, highlighting the rise of sexual freedom and adult entertainment. The discussion touches on women's rights and pleasure, the blend of sexuality with the occult, and Wilson's unique literary journey. They also reflect on balancing imagination with reality, emphasizing the lasting influence of vibes in modern culture.
The podcast highlights how the cultural context of the early 1970s revolutionized societal views on sexuality, intertwining liberation with intellectual discourse.
It discusses the intricate relationship between sexual themes and occult practices in literature, showcasing personal quests for understanding and enlightenment.
Deep dives
The Golden Age of Porn
The early 1970s marked the Golden Age of pornography, a time characterized by the rise of adult themes in cinema and literature. This period allowed for an unprecedented cultural exploration of sexuality, influenced by the counterculture movements following the McCarthy era. Cinemas in urban areas screened explicit films, while magazines like Playboy and Penthouse featured articles by thought leaders, merging sexual liberation with intellectual discourse. The evolution of film technology during this time meant that adult content was publicly accessible, transitioning from private consumption to mainstream engagement.
The Role of Birth Control
The introduction of the birth control pill in the 1960s significantly affected societal attitudes toward sex, shifting the focus from reproduction to pleasure. This change empowered women to take control of their reproductive health, fostering a sense of independence and sexual agency. Additionally, this era saw a surge in sexual and intellectual freedom, intertwining themes of personal liberation. The cultural shifts that accompanied this phenomenon helped facilitate conversations about pleasure and fantasy in literature and media.
Pornography and the Occult
Sexual themes and occult practices are interconnected in various artistic expressions, reflecting deep personal quests for understanding and enlightenment. This relationship is evident in works that explore the intersections of sexuality, magic, and self-discovery. Various writers, including Robert Anton Wilson, have suggested that many magical texts subtly disguise sexual instruction within complex symbolism. This fusion creates a framework for personal exploration, paralleling the way creative endeavors serve as a medium for magical expression and individual discovery.
The Authorship of 'The Sex Magicians'
The publication of 'The Sex Magicians' represented a pivotal moment in Robert Anton Wilson's transition to a full-time writer, influenced by his development within the magical community. Although its release was tied to the rise of his more well-known works, it offered foundational insights into his character development and thematic exploration. The book emerged in a context where Wilson sought to make creative and financial contributions while engaging with provocative subject matter. Consequently, 'The Sex Magicians' encapsulated the vice and valor of its time: a blend of commercial necessity and radical artistic expression.
In this episode, Mike Gathers chats with the two contributors to the Hilaritas Press edition of The Sex Magicians: writer, editor, theater and events producer Michelle Olly, and magician, writer, and teacher Gregory Arnott.