Musing Mystical

✨ A Gathering Place for Magical Readers and Writers ✨

Author Archives: Ken Craig-Saunders

About Ken Craig-Saunders

Ken is a professional Writer and Astrologer who was born in New York, went to school in the Berkshires, found his soul in Seattle, and now lives in Santa Ana, CA with his husband of 11 years and their two dogs, Pooh-Behr and Mr. FancyPants. Ken's passion for Astrology began in the mid-1970s and has only grown deeper throughout the decades. With a wealth of knowledge in Traditional techniques and methodologies, he offers insightful and accurate services through 4phases.com.

The Cunning Craft, by Nicholaj de Mattos Frisvold

The Cunning Craft: A Tortuous Path of the Wise Art, by Nicholaj de Mattos Frisvold
Crossed Crow Books, 1959883933, 222 pages, February 2025

Sometimes, a book comes along that just, well, it makes you pause. The Cunning Craft: A Tortuous Path of the Wise Art by Nicholaj de Mattos Frisvold is one of those. The title itself suggests something intricate, a journey perhaps not for the faint of heart, and the content certainly lives up to that. As someone with a long-standing interest in astrology and spiritual paths, the very concept of “cunning” as “to know,” especially “special knowledge of spiritual mysteries”1, immediately captured attention. It seemed to promise a deep dive into the practical and philosophical aspects of a craft that has often been, shall we say, misunderstood.

The author, Nicholaj de Mattos Frisvold, approaches this complex subject with a clear scholarly background—degrees in psychology, anthropology, and cinema studies are noted. This is evident in the precise language and the historical breadth of the text. Frisvold unpacks what “Traditional Craft” truly means, distinguishing it from more modern, popularized versions. He’s pretty direct about it, too, explaining that early historical forms of witchcraft were, perhaps surprisingly to some, “intricately and intimately involved with and bound up within”2 Christian and other faiths of their time. 

The book is structured thematically, with chapters delving into concepts like the crossroads, serpents, the “Mountain of Lady Venus,” and the sorcerous dimensions of the craft. Each section builds upon the previous, creating, I think, a comprehensive, if at times challenging, picture.

One aspect that truly stands out is the exploration of working “with both hands”3—that is, engaging with both what might be called the Left Hand Path (Maleficia) and the Right Hand Path (Beneficia). The author doesn’t shy away from the darker, more ambiguous aspects that have historically been linked to the cunning ones. This pragmatic approach, where the “Devil” figure is presented as a powerful initiator of knowledge, someone who “transcends this and His origin is far beyond just this planet, in the realms of the stars and beyond”4, offers a perspective not often found in popular texts. The text even quotes directly from a description of this entity, emphasizing its liminal, trickster nature:

“He is the firstborn from the Darkness of Night, but contains within Himself Night’s opposite—the bright and blinding Light. He is therefore a complete duality in Himself, both Dark and Bright, which exemplifies the liminal nature so prominent in the Witch themselves.”5

It’s a compelling, if somewhat unsettling, portrayal, one that asks the reader to really, I mean really, grapple with the idea of paradoxical truths.

The book also delves into the concept of Witchblood or Elven blood, suggesting a unique, sometimes otherworldly, ancestry for practitioners. This idea of a secret pedigree, stemming from ancient unions, gives the craft a profound sense of otherness that I found fascinating. It’s not just about inherited traits, apparently, but also about a particular kind of perception. Frisvold states:

“The presence of this unique essence manifests in a natural and arcane perception of the world that comes easily to ‘the other,’ who sees the world as enchanted, filled with possibilities and secrets.”6

This is quite different from some more modern, human-centric magical systems, offering, in a way, a deeper, more inherent connection to the “enchanted worldview”7.

The historical context is, in my opinion, meticulously researched. Frisvold traces the evolution of witchcraft accusations and beliefs, demonstrating how ecclesiastical interpretations and societal fears shaped concepts such as the Witches’ Sabbath and familiar spirits. The discussion on how the Church, in its own struggles, needed the “existence of witches and devils to sustain their hold on people and to validate their theology“8 provides a crucial historical lens. This isn’t a light read, certainly not for beginners in the field of magic or occult studies, but it is gratifying for those willing to engage with its depth. 

The detailed ritual instructions, including The Masquerade of the True Cross, offer a practical dimension, allowing the reader a glimpse into the workings of cunning folk. The inclusion of these previously unpublished rites really gives the book a unique edge.

In conclusion, The Cunning Craft is a profound and thought-provoking exploration of traditional witchcraft and sorcery. It challenges popular notions and delves into the historical, philosophical, and practical intricacies of the wise arts. It makes you think about how we define truth, power, and the “other.” 

This book is best suited for intermediate to advanced students and practitioners of esoteric traditions, as well as historians interested in the nuanced evolution of magical practices. It will likely encourage readers to look beyond superficial interpretations, to, in the author’s words, “look beyond the surface of things and look deeper, to challenge, to consider different realities”9.

The book is a testament to the idea that “Humanity’s modern psyche is a product of their belief in their greatness and loss of spiritual connection”10, offering, through its pages, a powerful antidote to that very modern predicament.

The Way of the Eight Winds, by Nigel Pennick

The Way of the Eight Winds: Elemental Magic and Geomancy in the Pagan Tradition, by Nigel Pennick
Destiny Books, 978-1644119864, 403 pages, January 2025

Let me tell you, as someone who has been deeply immersed in the world of astrology and spirituality since the 1970s, Nigel Pennick’s The Way of the Eight Winds: Elemental Magic and Geomancy in the Pagan Tradition immediately caught my eye. Right from the start, the idea of a spiritual path that celebrates the sheer diversity of the Cosmos and Nature’s endless creativity resonated with me. His deep dives into geomancy and elemental magic felt like a natural extension of my life journey, exploring how subtle energies shape our reality. My first thought? This book felt like a rare gem, blending serious scholarship with a truly hands-on approach. 

Pennick has a way of writing that pulls you in. He makes these really complex historical and philosophical ideas feel approachable, without ever dumbing them down. You can tell he’s not just writing about theory; he’s lived and breathed this stuff, a true scholar and practitioner all rolled into one. The book flows beautifully, starting with the big-picture philosophical ideas, then moving into cosmic principles, and finally getting down to the nitty-gritty of practical geomancy and creating sacred objects. It’s all laid out so logically, building one idea on top of another, making it easy to follow the thread of The Way of the Eight Winds.

One of the most captivating things for me was his focus on the “eldritch world” and Anima Loci, which he describes as the very spirit of a place. Pennick gets into how “The sacred nature of a place emanates directly from the Anima Loci and that any other usage of the place is an overlay derived externally, imposed by deliberate or accidental means over the original Anima Loci.”5 This idea, that places have their own intrinsic spiritual essence and that our actions can either nurture or harm it, resonated deeply with my astrological understanding of how planetary influences manifest in specific locations. For an astrologer like me, the thought that places themselves can be “ensouled,” and that we can actually interact with these energies, opens up a whole new dimension – it’s like extending a natal chart reading to include the very ground beneath our feet.

What I also loved is Pennick’s clear stance on direct experience. He makes it clear that The Way of the Eight Winds recognizes the essentially false nature of all dogma and doctrine and the destructive results of literalism.”6 That’s a massive point for me. It truly echoes my belief that genuine spiritual insight arises from personal engagement and intuition, rather than blindly following rules or doctrines. He even includes spiritual exercises like meditation and runic practices, offering concrete ways to tap into that direct experience. I haven’t had a chance to try everything yet, but his “Geomantic Walking”7 idea – essentially a quest to sense unseen forces in the environment – immediately jumped out. I can see myself incorporating that into my daily strolls here in Santa Ana, paying closer attention to the subtle energies of Orange County. 

And let me tell you, the historical context he provides is just fantastic. Pennick traces geomantic practices back through European history, from the ancient Etruscan Discipline to medieval traditions, and how they gradually got pushed aside by modern, more mechanical ways of looking at the world. He contrasts our current, often literal, understanding with traditional systems like the eight tides of the day and the eight winds. He even humorously points out how William of Occam’s razor, “Entities are not to be multiplied,”9 seems to be entirely ignored by modern engineers who love to complicate things! This historical perspective helps you grasp why it’s so important to reconnect with these ancient principles now.

All in all, The Way of the Eight Winds is a truly rich and thought-provoking read. It’s a gentle nudge, a reminder even, to open ourselves up to the subtle energies of the world and engage with our surroundings in a more mindful and respectful way. I’d definitely recommend it to anyone already involved in magic, geomancy, or pagan traditions – it’s an intermediate to expert level book, for sure. But honestly, any astrologer or anyone curious about the spiritual side of nature and place would get so much out of it. This book is absolutely going to influence my future astrological readings, pushing me to consider not just the stars above, but the very earth below for my clients. It’s truly inspired me to deepen my own geomantic practices and keep exploring those hidden landscapes right here at home.

The Call of the Old Gods, by Christopher McIntosh

The Call of the Old Gods: My Occult Journey on the Pagan Path, by Christopher McIntosh 
Inner Traditions, 978-1644119895, 266 pages, January 2025

The Call of the Old Gods: My Occult Journey on the Pagan Path by Christopher McIntosh is an invitation to journey alongside a seasoned scholar and practitioner as he navigates a deeply personal spiritual quest. McIntosh describes his life’s journey as a “spiral one,” rather than a straight line, “gradually spiraling toward the center”11. This memoir, which chronicles his move towards a pagan worldview, offers a unique blend of scholarly insight and personal experience. The author’s honesty about his early life, including challenging experiences and shifting beliefs, sets a tone of authenticity from the outset.

McIntosh’s writing style is articulate and engaging, balancing vivid personal anecdotes with profound philosophical reflections. He weaves together his life story with broader themes of spiritual exploration and the evolution of esoteric thought. The book is structured chronologically, moving through key periods and “encounters” that shaped his journey, making for a readable and digestible experience. Each chapter feels like a conversation with a wise friend, sharing insights gained through real-world experience. While the book touches on advanced esoteric concepts, McIntosh explains them in a way that is accessible to anyone with a genuine interest, making it suitable for intermediate seekers, but also offering rich rewards for experts. The quality of his sources, evident in the detailed endnotes, further attests to his scholarly background and dedication.

A notable subjective aspect is McIntosh’s candidness about his spiritual meanderings. His initial dabbling in Buddhism in adolescence, his brief flirtation with Judaism, and his eventual embrace of paganism illustrate the often non-linear nature of spiritual growth. The intellectual rigor he brings to his spiritual pursuits is also evident in his return to Oxford as a mature student for a D.Phil., focusing on eighteenth-century Rosicrucianism.

The author’s reflections on sacred space and the concept of “somewhere” are particularly striking. He observes that modern, generalized spiritual approaches, like a Prayer Hall of All Faiths at the UN, while well-intentioned, can be “absolutely devoid of any spiritual energy or atmosphere”12. He likens it to “the religious equivalent of Esperanto, which tries to be an ‘everywhere’ language and ends up being a ‘nowhere’ one”13.

This perspective underscores the idea that soulfulness “needs a nourishing soil in order to flourish, in other words a ‘somewhere'”. His experiences in Korea, Japan, and Germany, where he found “authentic, organic culture”14 and “somewhere” concentrated in mountainous areas or Zen gardens, bring this concept vividly to life.

Encounters with notable figures are a definite highlight. Narratives about friendships with occult luminaries, such as Aleister Crowley’s chief disciple Gerald Yorke, and the amusing anecdote of Kenneth Anger and the hedgehog offer rare, human glimpses into the lives of these personalities. The descriptions of meeting Hilmar Örn Hilmarsson, now the head of the Asatru community in Iceland, and their repeated, seemingly coincidental encounters, highlight the mysterious nature of synchronicity. McIntosh muses, “Coincidence is the universe thinking aloud”15, a sentiment that points to a deeper interconnectedness often defying linear logic.

McIntosh’s journey into paganism, particularly the Nordic tradition (Asatru), is a poignant aspect of the book. He frames his eventual embrace of it around a fivefold path—the soul, mind, heart, belly, and the feet, representing connection to the land and ancestors. This holistic framework is both profound and practical. His embrace of the Nordic gods, feeling their call through his ancestral line and the richness of their myths and symbols, illustrates a powerful spiritual homecoming.

In conclusion, The Call of the Old Gods is more than just a memoir; it’s a testament to the enduring power of genuine spiritual seeking and the rich tapestry of esoteric traditions. McIntosh’s life story serves as an inspiring example of how one can navigate diverse paths, overcome personal challenges, and ultimately find a sense of belonging and meaning. This book is recommended for individuals on a spiritual journey, especially those who feel a pull toward polytheistic or nature-based traditions, or who are simply curious about the lives of modern esotericists. The book encourages a re-engagement with the spirits of the world, suggesting that true enchantment lies not just in distant realms, but in the conscious interaction with our immediate surroundings.

Essence of Tarot, by Mary K. Greer

Essence of Tarot: Using Essential Oils, Magic & Rituals to Empower Your Readings, by Mary K. Greer
Weiser Books, 1578638526, 208 pages, January 2025

Mary K. Greer’s Essence of Tarot is a fascinating exploration into the intersection of tarot, aromatherapy, and ritual practices. With a deep understanding of both tarot and the art of scent, Greer artfully weaves these elements together to enhance the tarot experience for both beginners and long-time practitioners. As a long-time tarot enthusiast myself, I found it captivating how Greer bridges these two seemingly different worlds, revealing fresh and profound insights into the cards as well as the powerful influence of essential oils.

Greer, who is well-known and whose expertise in tarot is well-established, dives deep into the history and magic surrounding essential oils, illuminating aspects that many practitioners may overlook. This refreshing combination of knowledge makes the book not just an instructional guide but a compelling read that encourages introspection and growth. Through her words, readers are invited to delve into a practice that encompasses more than just card interpretation; it becomes a new level of experiencing tarot.

One of the most insightful aspects of this book is Greer’s thorough exploration of the “law of correspondence,” a foundational concept in both tarot and aromatherapy. Greer explains how each tarot card aligns with various elements, planets, and astrological signs, and how these correspondences connect to specific essential oils. This intricate framework deepens the reader’s understanding of the cards, allowing for a richer interpretation and connection to their meanings. For readers who are keen to expand their tarot practice, this analysis acts as a guiding light, connecting the dots between the spiritual and the sensory.

Greer’s writing style strikes a perfect balance between scholarly and accessibility. She is known for guiding readers through complex topics with ease, making even the more intricate aspects of tarot and aromatherapy understandable and engaging. Her ability to break down what is normally dense material and present it in a relatable manner is a testament to her expertise and passion. I found myself reflecting on how she balances objective information with her subjective experiences, sharing deeply personal insights while encouraging readers to forge their own connections to the cards and oils.

The practical elements of the book were highly engaging. Greer doesn’t just present theories; she provides clear, actionable instructions for creating tarot-themed oil blends, outlining specific oils that correspond to each Major Arcana card. This is where the transformative power of scent truly comes into play. Since reading this book I’ve begun experimenting with crafting my own blends based on Greer’s recommendations.

The specific scents I’ve chosen amplify the energetic vibrations of the cards, adding depth and another layer of meaning to my readings. I have found sitting with individual cards and a corresponding scent really enhances my connection to the symbolism of the card. I imagine that it creates new psychic pathways as well for connecting to etheric for tarot lives.

For instance, I recently blended ylang-ylang and rose, oils associated with the Empress card, which represents fertility and abundance. The rich, sweet scent transformed my reading session into a multi-sensory experience, allowing me to connect with the nurturing energy of the Empress in a new way. Each blend I have created not only enhances my practice but has created a deeper emotional connection to the archetypes represented in the tarot.

Greer’s emphasis on ritual within the practice of tarot particularly resonated with me. She provides a wealth of suggestions for incorporating essential oils into rituals, ranging from simple anointing practices to more intricate ceremonies aimed at deepening one’s connection with the cards. These rituals serve as a reminder of the sacredness of the tarot experience—transforming what might otherwise be a simple card reading into a meaningful spiritual practice.

One of the passages that struck me most profoundly was Greer’s discussion on the concept of “aroma imaging.” This technique, which involves using scent to consciously pattern aromatic responses and create new associations, ignited my curiosity. The idea that fragrance can be utilized not just for mood enhancement but as an integral part of spiritual practice is fascinating. I am eager to delve deeper into this technique and see how it can enhance my interactions with tarot. Imagining scent as a conduit for energy and intention opens up a world of possibilities in my readings.

The format of “Essence of Tarot” is also noteworthy. Greer intersperses her scholarly discussions with personal anecdotes and practical exercises, allowing readers to engage with the material on multiple levels. This structure fosters a learning environment that feels personal and interactive rather than just didactic. I found myself participating in the exercises, blending oils during readings, and thinking critically about how these practices enhance my intuitive insights.

Greer emphasizes the importance of connecting with your own intuitive abilities. She encourages readers to use the recipes and rituals as a guide while allowing for personal modifications and approaches that resonate with their unique spiritual journeys. This invitation to personalize the experience is essential; it nurtures creativity and authenticity, empowering readers to discover what works best for them.

By the time I reached the book’s conclusion, I felt not only more knowledgeable about tarot but inspired to continue exploring the intricate relationship between tarot and aromatherapy. Greer’s work has effectively expanded my understanding of both tarot and essential oils, this is going to open new avenues for exploration within my spiritual practice.

This book transcends being a mere guide on using essential oils with tarot; it is a call to dive into a rich tapestry of connections among scent, symbol, and spirit. It is a reminder that tarot is not just a visual tool but can be a multi-sensory experience that can be deeply enriched through the power of fragrance.

Ultimately, Essence of Tarot has reaffirmed for me the transformative power of tarot and the magic that lies within the cards, patiently waiting to be awakened through our senses. I wholeheartedly recommend this book to individuals who harbor a passion for tarot, whether they are seasoned readers or novices just embarking on their journey. 

This book is not simply a read but an experience—one that will resonate long after the last page is turned. I know I will return to it repeatedly as I continue my exploration of the fascinating realms of tarot and aromatherapy. As a last aside, if you haven’t read any of her other books, I highly recommend them, especially Tarot for Yourself.

How to Read and Interpret a Birth Chart, by Laurie Farrington

How to Read and Interpret a Birth Chart: Guideposts for Understanding Natal Astrology, by Laurie Farrington
Weiser Books, 1578638461, 280 pages, January 2025  

In How to Read and Interpret a Birth Chart: Guideposts for Understanding Natal Astrology, Laurie Farrington offers a comprehensive guide for those seeking to deepen their understanding of natal astrology. Farrington is an experienced astrologer with over thirty years in practice. She presents a structured system for approaching the complexities of birth charts, providing valuable insights for both beginners and seasoned professionals. The book emphasizes the importance of moving beyond the basics of astrology to achieve a more nuanced and insightful interpretation of the natal chart.

Farrington’s approach is both objective and subjective. She acknowledges the skill and art involved in interpreting a natal chart. She shares her personal experiences and insights, including her initial struggles with a cohesive method for chart interpretation and how the method presented in this book comes about. For Farrington, astrology is a spiritual discipline that provides a path to self-understanding and soul evolution. She encourages astrologers to approach each chart with fresh eyes and an open mind, recognizing a single natal chart’s immense complexity and potential.

The book is divided into two parts. The first part, “Reading the Heavens,” delves into the history of astrology, the four branches of Western astrology (natal, mundane, Electional, and horary), and the author’s perspective on Western humanistic astrology. Farrington advocates for a deeper understanding of the individual within the context of their birth chart, moving beyond the predictive approach to exploring personal growth and self-actualization. She also stresses the importance of developing a system for reading charts to provide clarity and confidence.

One of the things I found most interesting and helpful was her explanation of how the houses work, she writes the following: 

“Consider your new friend with the hidden Pisces nature. Why is your experience on meeting her not what you would expect of a Pisces? Let’s say that Sagittarius was rising in the east at the time of her birth. This places her Pisces Sun in the 4th house (home and family). With Sagittarius rising (see Guidepost 7), Jupiter “rules” the chart (see Guidepost 2). Because Jupiter rules, not only her Sagittarius rising, but also her Pisces Sun, Jupiter is a key player in this chart. And if Jupiter is in the 9th house (higher understanding) in Leo, it is this expansive Leo exuberance that you encounter when you meet this person”13

Part two, “Guideposts for Understanding,” presents a detailed exploration of seventeen key concepts or “guideposts” that Farrington considers essential for accurate chart interpretation. These guideposts are key to understanding the whole of the chart, rather than its distinct pieces.  Each guidepost is thoroughly explained with examples and considerations for practical application. 

The guideposts are

Guidepost 1 – Sect Diurnal and Nocturnal Charts

Guidepost 2 – Planetary Rulers

Guidepost 3 – Hemispheres, Quadrants, and Houses

Guidepost 4 – Saturn Retrograde

Guidepost 5 – The Nurturing Moon

In this guidebook, she breaks down how the moon reflects the chart owner’s experience, not the parents themselves. As an example, here is what Farrington says about individuals with Moon in Leo:

“Moon in Leo 

• These individuals experience the mother or mother figure as playful, exuberant, and generously affectionate. 

• On a more challenging level, they likely see her overbearing, self-centered, and arrogant side as well. 

• Example: Chelsea Clinton, born February 27, 1980, at 11:24 PM CST in Little Rock, Arkansas.”14

Guidepost 6 – Union of Sun and Moon

Guidepost 7 – Ascendant and Rising Signs

Guidepost 8 – Idealization

Guidepost 9 – Keywords and Personifications

Guidepost 10 – Signature Signs, which she describes as the sign that is most heavily emphasized in the chart.

Guidepost 11 – Retrograde motion 

Guidepost 12 – Aspects and Unaspected Planets

Guidepost 13 – The Aries Point, which I plan on using going forward

Guidepost 14 – The Two Faces of Pluto

Guidepost 15 – Grand Trines

Guidepost 16 – Stelliums

Guidepost 17 – Dispositors

For example, the guidepost on “Planetary Rulers” explores the traditional and modern systems of planetary rulership, the concept of essential dignity, and the rulership of houses. Farrington combines traditional and contemporary approaches, advocating for using traditional rulers and modern co-rulers to understand the zodiac signs better. Her argument is that this integration enriches chart interpretation, providing a more complete picture of the individual’s astrological influences. I have also been using this same approach in my practice.  It is very useful, offering nuances that the humanistic approach often overlooks.

Throughout the book, Farrington emphasizes the importance of understanding the individual behind the chart. She advocates asking open-ended questions and actively listening to facilitate collaborative chart exploration. This approach empowers individuals to connect with their “inner knowing” and fosters a deeper self-understanding. 

In conclusion, I really enjoyed reading How to Read and Interpret a Birth Chart. It is a fantastic resource for anyone seeking to enhance their astrological knowledge and chart interpretation skills. I would recommend this book for an advanced beginner looking to take the practice to the next level.

This book fills far too big a gap in the available astrological literature on chart interpretation. There really aren’t that many books that teach you how to put everything together in a systematic way. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. Farrington’s systematic approach and emphasis on self-discovery and compassionate communication provide a solid foundation for personal exploration and professional practice.

The 17 guideposts are the key takeaway for me from How to Read and Interpret a Birth Chart.  I plan to include these in my chart Interpretation form that I use with every client. This book has made my list of 10 astrology books every astrologer should read.