Category: Books
The Golden Dawn by Israel Regardie
The cover title describes the contents of the book as “an account of the teachings, rites and ceremonies of the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn.” This is 368 page publication. It was originally copyrighted in 1971, this is the third printing of the book from Llewellyn Publication, 1978.
An encyclopedia of practical occultism. It is one of the most influential books on occultism in the past 100 years. The original Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn, began in the late 1800s and borrowed from various occult traditions including Kabalah, Tarot, Theosophy, Freemasonry, Paganism, Astrology, etc.
The author, worked as Aleister Crowley’s personal secretary. He is credited with extensive writings while practicing as both a chiropractor and a neo-Reichian therapist. He also taught psychiatry at the Los Angeles College of Chiropractic and contributed articles to many psychology magazines. “
A Story and Study of Masonry by J.F. Newton
Written in 1916, it was undertaken to answer a personal quest the author made at the time of his raising in the Order. He wished to produce a book that would communicate antecedents of Masonry, the development, philosophy, mission, and ideal. “The book was commissioned by the Grand Lodge of Iowa, approved by that Grand body, and presented to each man upon whom the degree of Master Mason” was conferred within that Grand Jurisdiction.
There is no dedication marking, although it appears well used. It does have intermittent “pink” transparent highlights within the pages of this 317 page publication.
Community Radio Sex and Broadcasting: A Handbook
Sex and Broadcasting: A Handbook on Starting a Radio Station for the Community is exactly what it says; minus the sex.The author Lorenzo Milam provided a model for the creation of a station at the left end of the dial. It provides advice regarding the technology and the bureaucratic regulations (read applications) related to the FCC in the ’60s and ’70s, practically and humorously described by Milam a pioneer of non-commercial public broadcasting. Milam viewed radio as a medium of expression; of purpose and passion. This book is an iconic and irreverent read for anyone who supports non-commercial radio, is actively involved in local broadcasting, or is interested in learning from the master about the hurdles required in starting or operating one. Obviously, this is a look back, technology and regulations have change dramatically since its publication.
The book’s printed cover graphics are known to read “THREE DOLLAH ” this book has a partial paper sticker affixed to that spot which reads “FIVE DOLLAH ” There are newer copies of the book available, the soft bound cover is different, and they do not have the collectible cache of this edition. This book borders on underground, it is 352 indicated pages, the 3rd edition, 1975 from Dildo Press. It is in very good condition.The only marking is a 3″ x 2″ stamped impression from “The Dildo Press Lady” which states that the book now costs $5 and orders should be addressed to BOOKPEOPLE in Dallas, Texas. In addition, it has her ink pen out which conveys that orders may no longer be filled through the Los Gatos, CA addresses.
Typefaces and Letraset Letters
The digital revolution began around 1980 and resulted in a major shift from prior analog and mechanical technology toward electronic technology and the digital age. Letraset and Chartpak were the Adobe of the late 60s and 70s for graphic designers. Letrasets dry transfer letters and other products are still sold in England, pricey if not rarified. Letraset letter sheets were produced as 10″ x 15″ and Chartpak, 8.5″ x 11″. The sheets enabled anyone from a designer to a Girl Scout leader to design and create posters, cards, or other ephemera while using letters which conveyed their message with the available fontography. The purpose for their use has definitely shifted to a less commericall more creative direction.
Another example of how digital computing and communication technology have been effected in recent decades was the market for and subsequent publication of a series of lettering thesaurus’ to introduce new letter alphabets, their designers, and potential use. Digital computing and communication technology have made obsolete the need for typesetters and typesetting. Imagine the concept of comps, in lieu of camera ready art produced utilizing costly and specialized equipment. The Alphabet Thesaurus Vol. 3 Photo-Lettering Inc. published by Van Nostrand Reinhold in 1971 is the most definitive publication of its times on type. The 500 page oversized book is still used as a coveted reference tool by graphic artists and typophiles throughout the world.