If you buy only one magick book in your lifetime, other than one of my books, it should be Psychomagic by Alejandro Jodorowsky. It operates on multiple levels to give insight on the true primal foundations of magick. Jodorowsky’s genius shines thru as he both heals and educates with this book.
The book takes the format of several different interview with Jodorowsky. According to the publisher “Psychomagic presents the shamanic and genealogical principles Jodorowsky discovered to create a healing therapy that could use the powers of dreams, art, and theater to empower individuals to heal wounds that in some cases had traveled through generations. The concrete and often surreal poetic actions Jodorowsky employs are part of an elaborate strategy intended to break apart the dysfunctional persona with whom the patient identifies in order to connect with a deeper self. That is when true transformation can manifest. ” In an artful mix of poetry and action this book provides solutions to almost every obstacle.
Climbing The Holy Mountain
Published in 2004, in Psychomagic Jodorowsky lists all the important lessons about magick, self-discovery and existence. His techniques, like the man himself are nontraditional. Many people are familiar with his films, the most popular being The Holy Mountain. Released in the early 70s it has become a cult classic. At it’s core it is an elaborate metaphor for the Tarot and the fool or the hero’s journey. John Lennon and Yoko Ono were responsible for producing the film. The Holy Mountain contains some of my most favorite moments on film including the re-enactment of the conquest of Mexico. It may upset animal rights activists, but in Jodorowsky’s defense he does say that “The crucified animal carcasses were borrowed from a local restaurant, which were then served to customers upon being returned.”
A few years ago I had the ultimate honor of meeting Jodorowsky in person, shaking his hand and thinking him for all that he does. In respone to this experience I made a film. An homage to one of the most innovative filmmakers of our time, my piece titled Tarot, Jodorowsky e Interrogantes de una Mano Lisiada works to explore the influence of ancestors and the ways in which genetic memory shapes and influences existence. It shows how time and space can circle around experience to create sacred meaning.
Fortunately this amazing meeting wasn’t my only brush with greatness. Imagine my surprise on a recent trip to Ireland when I discovered Jodorowsky prominently featured in the Irish Museum of Modern Art’s As Above, So Below exhibit. The instillation focused on the Tarot, and includes giant cards to illustrate the message. He also created a video to go along with the show. It features people holding hands, lifting their arms up into the sky, laughing, and rejoicing. Just like all of Jodorowsky’s work, I found it truly inspirational.
I am clearly a fan of everything Jodorowsky does. And so if you need to only buy one book about magick, then Psychomagic is it. It gives insight into both the universe and yourself. As always if you enjoy what you read here please remember to like, comment, and share !
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