AN OMINOUS PARALLEL
He was
born to undistinguished parents of modest income. His educational achievements
were not outstanding. And then he announced that he was teaching the One True
Way. A few enthusiasts believed him, but they gradually became disillusioned
and drifted away. He died an inglorious death.
Years
later, his teachings were publicised and many – far more than had followed him
during his life – espoused the cause with great enthusiasm. Conveniently
ignoring their mentor’s failings and putting their own interpretation on his
pronouncements, they proclaimed him the Greatest. Anyone who disbelieved was a
heretic.
I’m
writing about Aleister Crowley. Well, who did you think I meant?
From the Dark Lily Journal No 7, Society of Dark Lily
(London 1988).