Out of the Shadows: An Exploration of Dark Paganism and Magick - Paperback

by John J. Coughlin (Author)

So often darkness is associated with evil. Since the term evil has no place in a nature-based religion, we Pagans are forced to look beyond such stereotypes. But what then is "darkness? Why are so many of us drawn to themes associated with darkness such as death, mystery, wisdom, magic, and the night? These themes and symbols are empowering to many of us because they tap into the deepest reaches of our unconscious. The goal of this book, which is a culmination of over 16 years of study and practice, is to not only share with you the author's views on Dark Paganism and spirituality, but to encourage you - if not challenge you - to personalize your own belief system. While the first part explores the aspects and spirituality of darkness, the second part of this book discusses the nature and practice of magic by exploring the underlying principles at work.

Author Biography

John J. Coughlin has been involved in one aspect of the occult or another since 1984. In that time he has worked with several groups, although he primarily prefers to walk a solitary, eclectic path. Currently, John is Editor/Webmaster of the NYC Pagan Resource Guide and has created many other web-based projects for Pagans, Goths, and other specialized groups on Waning Moon's website. A relatively reclusive author in occult circles, John's other public books include Out of the Shadows: An Exploration of Dark Paganism and Magick, Liber Yog-Sothoth, and A Cthulhian Grimoire of Dream Work. His written work extends onto the Internet in his ongoing and heavily-researched study of the history and evolution of Wiccan ethics.