There is a lot to be obsessed with in the life of Aleister Crowley, the relatively infamous occultist, poet, painter, spy and ceremonial magician. The Beast in Berlin covers a period of his life that has, until now, been largely unexamined.
Tobias Churton does a fantastic job retelling the story of Crowley's time in Berlin. He details what appears to be the occultists last attempts at finding recognition and respect in the world of art. Berlin, in the early 30s, was a fantastic community for art and artists, and Crowley wanted in. We learn, in rich detail, about his work for as a spy for the English government and his continued frustrations in the world of art.
I am not an authority on Crowley. I find him interesting but less relevant to my spiritual interests than Mickey Mouse. This was a hell of an interesting, exciting read about a rather strange individual. If you are interested in Crowley, I recommend it.
I read the hardback version of this book, as the publisher sent it to me, however there is also a Kindle version available.
Aleister Crowley: The Beast in Berlin: Art, Sex, and Magick in the Weimar Republic by Tobias Churton
