Magick Without Tears

26 MAGICK WITHOUT TEARS Letter I January 27,1944 Cara Soror, Do what thou wilt shall be the whole of the Law. It is very good hearing that these letters do good, but rather sad to reflect that it is going to make you so unpopular. Your friends will notice at once that glib vacuities fail to impress, and hate you, and tell lies about you. It's worth it. Yes, your brain is quite all right; what is wanted is to acquire the habit of pinning things down instantly. (He says 're-incarnation' -now what exactly does he mean by that? He says "it is natural to suppose . .. ": what is 'natural', and what is implied by supposition?) Practice this style of criticism; write down what happens. Within a week or two you will be astounded to discover that you have got what is apparently little less than a new brain! You must make this a habit, not letting anything get by the sentries. Indeed, I want you to go even further; make sure of what is meant by even the simplest words. Trace the history of the word with the help of Skeat's Etymological Dictionary. E.g. pretty means 'tricky', 'deceitful' ; on the other hand, hussy is only 'housewife'. It's amusing, too, this tabby refers to Prince Attab, the grandson of Ommeya-the silk quarter of Baghdad where utabi, a rich watered silk was sold. This will soon give you the power of discerning instantly when words are being used to hide meaning or lack of it. Love is the law, love under will. Fraternally, 666