Nick Tharcher, co-founder of Falcon Press, discusses the history of the publishing company and his partnership with Christopher Hyatt. They explore integrating therapies, the FDA's interest in maps, autonomy versus determinism, hypocrisy in politics, and current projects. The chapter also touches on receiving submissions, health issues, threats they faced, and the legacy of the Golden Dawn.
Falcon Press has been a pioneer in publishing alternative spirituality, philosophy, and occult literature.
Nick Tharcher's involvement and contributions have been instrumental in shaping the direction of Falcon Press and ensuring the publication of significant occult and esoteric works.
Falcon Press played a crucial role in bringing the works of Robert Anton Wilson to the public, even when other publishers were hesitant, adding to their reputation for publishing thought-provoking and influential works.
Deep dives
Falcon Press: Origins and Mysterious Beginnings
Falcon Press, formerly known as New Falcon Press, is an independent publishing company founded in 1978 by Robert Anton Wilson and Kerry Thornley. They specialize in books on alternative spirituality, philosophy, and the occult. The company was later acquired by Christopher S. Hyatt and J. Marvin Spingleman in 1979. The press has faced various challenges and ownership changes over the years, but has continued to publish works by notable authors such as Wilson himself. Falcon Press has played a significant role in promoting esoteric and occult literature, and despite the changing landscapes of the publishing industry, it has maintained its commitment to providing unique and provocative works to its readers.
Nicholas Starcher: Co-founder of Falcon Press
Nicholas Starcher, a co-founder of Falcon Press, joins Mike Gathers on the Hilaritas podcast to discuss the origins and history of the press. Starcher shares insights about the early days of Falcon Press and its evolution through various iterations, from Falcon Press to New Falcon Press, and finally, Original Falcon Press. He also talks about his introduction to Christopher Hyatt, his work in therapy and Reiki, and the various challenges and successes they have experienced throughout the years. Starcher's contribution to Falcon Press has been instrumental in shaping its direction and ensuring the publication of significant occult and esoteric works.
Publishing the Works of Robert Anton Wilson
Falcon Press has had a longstanding relationship with iconic writer and philosopher Robert Anton Wilson. They first got involved with Wilson in 1984 when they published his book 'Prometheus Rising.' Wilson's primary publisher at the time, Jeremy Tarcher, had initially declined the book, but Falcon Press quickly jumped at the opportunity. This collaboration led to the publication of 20 books by Wilson, including 'Cosmic Trigger.' Falcon Press played an essential role in bringing Wilson's works to the public, even when other publishers weren't as receptive. Wilson's association with Falcon Press added to the press's reputation for publishing thought-provoking and influential works.
The Legacy of Bob and Timothy Leary
The podcast episode delves into the legacy of Bob and Timothy Leary. The speaker discusses their collaboration on various books, such as 'Sex, Drugs, and Magic,' and reflects on their impact and influence in the field. They also touch on the controversy surrounding certain titles, like the 'Guns N' Dope party,' and share anecdotes about their interactions with other notable figures, including Grace Jones. Overall, the episode provides insights into the lives and work of these iconic individuals and their contributions to the metaphysical and occult realms.
Challenges of Publishing and Receiving Book Submissions
The podcast episode explores the challenges faced by a publisher in vetting book submissions. The speaker highlights the sheer volume of submissions they received compared to the limited number of titles they could publish. They offer amusing and frustrating anecdotes of receiving irrelevant submissions, such as children's books and cookbooks, despite their specific focus on metaphysics and the occult. The speaker also mentions the difficulties in capturing and conveying the techniques and exercises of Wilhelm Reich's work in book form. Overall, the episode provides a glimpse into the world of publishing and the intricacies of selecting and handling book submissions.