Jan Fries

This book feels like two books condensed into one:

A historical book about runes and pagan culture: this is the weakest part of the book, Fries already knew that within a few decades this part would have been mostly, if not completely obsolete. And he was right. Only a few interesting things here and there, and some curiosities and speculations populate pages upon pages of outdated historical info. I have been told that in the new addition he fixed and updated some things. I read the old edition.

Then there is the other part:

A brilliant psychology book, critiquing some forms of over-intellectual therapy, favouring some more screaming, agitating, dancing ones. Discussing the ego relationship with the self, the breaking and surrender of the ego to the self, the nature of spirits, and neurosis (physical armour). This is the best part in my opinion. Showing how one could go from a rigid and egocentric practice to a more fluid and natural one.

The only real bone that I have to pick with the author is his opinion on astral projection. But I have been told that he treated the subject in his next book Seidways.… (plus d'informations)

I've got to confess to having some positive preconceptions about this book - a subject that I love, and one of my favourite authors - I knew from the moment I heard about it that it was going to be a winner.

Jan Fries has never disappointed. His books are always erudite, well researched, and deeply based in an experiential practice. I always remember my own reaction to his "Visual Magick" - which was the first "bullshit free" title on the subject that I had ever read, and I've loved his stuff right up to the more recent "Cauldron of the Gods". He has a refreshing emphasis upon practical application, and most endearingly, always reminds the reader that results may differ for them...

In this latest work he takes on the challenge of approaching Tantra, and does so with customary aplomb. I know a little about the spectrum of Hinduism myself from both academic and fieldwork levels, and his writing is informed by both emic and etic discourses, academic and initiated approaches - in other words, it is wide-ranging, intelligent, and well-informed (yet not afraid to critique any of these viewpoints and suggest alternative discourses and approaches).

Although he ranges widely - particularly into Daoism and the Western Mystery Tradition, the focus upon the practical application of the Tantric approach is the key focus throughout this book. As usual he chunks down the erudition with clear explanations, and suggestions for practical application.

I think that this is a book that offers a genuine potential for a cross-over readership. While of interest to Jan Fries' usual readership, this should also be of interest to anyone with a serious interest in the study of tantra; from either a yogic or academic perspective. The early chapters provide an outstanding brief introductory guide to the whole concept of "Hinduism".

Having ripped through this in one go - I'm now looking forward to revisiting it, and taking my time to savour the ideas.

Om puspa puspa
maha puspa
supuspa puspa
sambhave puspa
cayavakirne ca
hum phat svaha… (plus d'informations)