Occasional Occultural Observations
I have no idea why I’ve always had some kind of publishing venture going on in my life. Sometimes it’s been a side hustle, and sometimes a full-time job. But it’s always been there: publishing books as a pathology of sorts. In a way, I think it comes from DIY backgrounds integrated in post-punk- and industrial sub-cultures: if you want your stuff out there, you make it happen by self-publishing.
As I have had some of my books published by other publishers, this has obviously not been a stern or rigid attitude. In fact, I would love if all my books were published by others. But I am simply too productive, and so I’m happy to combine these paths into one well-greased highway. And, as most of you know, I do publish books by other authors as well.
Financially this has not always been the best choice. Because in the ecstasy of discovering not only your own ideas but also those of other great authors, you tend to forget that marketing should probably constitute half of the investments and work efforts. If you basically just want to make books – like I do – you will soon find yourself in a quagmire of hard (and boring) work and bad consciences. But… when you do get a new book in your hand, it is undoubtedly a special feeling, regardless if it’s your own work or someone else you’ve published. Perhaps those moments make it worth the while? Ask me again on my death bed!
Also, on an even deeper pathological level, there is that Occulture aspect. When you produce material that inspires other individuals to individuate, and leak previously unavailable material into the mainstream, it is a great feeling of existential satisfaction. That transcendence is key; we need to step out of our playgrounds and play in other ones. If we only write for our own environments – as within academia – it really leads nowhere but esoteric ass-kissing. There will be no epiphanies or useful strategies for survival, but merely a pointless regurgitation of already quantified data.
I do believe disseminating occulture is important work in troubled times like ours. There needs to be more magic out there; whether traditional or experimental, people need to turn on really quickly and get into a SOURCE MAGIC kind of mind frame. Building from the epistemological gnosis of shamanic techniques and attitudes, and then reaching out in whatever micro-steps you can. It may make a difference in the big picture, or it may not. But unless you actually try, will you ever fully know?
This is the time in history when we have to leave the imbalanced faith in dogmatic religions on one hand and scientism (and its patrons) on the other; if we don’t, the collapse will come sooner rather than later. I certainly don’t want to be a party pooper – I love a good party! – but the heavily depressed state of the world and its overwhelmingly colorful compensations keeps writing on the proverbial wall in bigger and bolder letters.
As for me, I humbly offer The Fenris Wolf as a collection of thoughts and ideas that may seem disparate and eclectic, and hope it will fall into good soil. It certainly has so far. Being literally open-minded and then nurturing and caring for whatever epiphanies come popping up might be the most important work there is for a magician today.
Occultural publishing often faces a struggle to be taken seriously in mainstream circles. The unconventional subjects, unconventional methods, and unconventional authors can sometimes lead to skepticism or dismissal. However, it is crucial to remember that the value of publications like The Fenris Wolf lies in their ability to challenge prevailing paradigms, provoke thought, and open doors to new realms of understanding. While it may take time for the broader audience to embrace and appreciate these works, the impact of occultural publishing can be profound for those who engage with it earnestly.
Some may argue that our pursuit of occult or occultural knowledge is nothing more than a manifestation of our own vain pathology – a desire to be seen as the gatekeepers of hidden truths. While it is true that a certain level of ”ego” is inherent in any creative endeavor, we maintain that our motivation stems from a genuine desire to explore the mysteries of existence and share our findings with those who are equally curious.
Perhaps, in the end, the true meaning of my work as an occultural publisher lies not in the accolades or the meagre financial rewards, but in the journey itself. Each book I publish is a step into the unknown, a glimpse into the depths of human consciousness, and a testament to the enduring quest for knowledge and understanding.
As I continue to navigate the woes and wonders of occultural publishing, I remain steadfast in my commitment to shining a light on the hidden corners of our world. For in the words of Aleister Crowley, "The key of joy is disobedience," and Trapart Books will continue to disobey the conventions of the mainstream in our pursuit of the extraordinary.
Want to tag along? Please visit the Trapart Books web site here. Also, if you prefer to buy books via Amazon to save on postage costs, there is a direct link on almost all of the product pages.
In times like these, reading a book and nurturing a thought is an act of defiance. Make sure to read a good one.
Vade Ultra!
Carl