Ray Russell
Author, bibliographer and founder of Tartarus Press, known for scholarship and publishing on Arthur Machen and for writing the definitive biography of T. Lobsang Rampa; in this episode he discusses Machen's life, works, and mystical interests.
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Aug 8, 2025 • 1h 6min
Ep319: Mystery of T Lobsang Rampa - R.B. Russell
Ray Russell, founder of Tartarus Press and author of 'T. Lobsang Rampa And Other Characters of Questionable Faith,' delves into the enigmatic life of T. Lobsang Rampa. Once Cyril Henry Hoskin, Rampa claimed to channel a Tibetan Lama, stirring debates on authenticity and cultural impact. Russell explores the psychological allure of faith and the motivations behind fictional narratives. They discuss Rampa’s legacy in popularizing Tibetan Buddhism and the ongoing fascination with myth and belief, questioning how hoaxes shape our understanding of spirituality.
Jan 9, 2026 • 1h 10min
Ep343: The Mystic Arthur Machen - RB Russell
R.B. Russell, an author and founder of Tartarus Press, delves into the intriguing life of Welsh mystic Arthur Machen. He explores Machen's involvement with the occult and the Golden Dawn, revealing his complex relationship with spirituality. Russell highlights Machen's monumental work, 'The Great God Pan,' addressing its chilling reception and feminist interpretations. The conversation also touches on the nuances of literary theory, the interplay of psychoanalysis in horror, and the enduring allure of Grail mythology, showcasing Machen's profound literary legacy.
