Author John Carter utilizes interviews and primary sources to provide an "intriguing portrait" of Parsons.
Some readers find the sections detailing Parsons' occult writings to be "tedious arcana," while others appreciate the inclusion of previously unpublished writings and photographs.
Outside the lab, Parsons was a devoted follower of Aleister Crowley and led the Agape Lodge of the Ordo Templi Orientis (OTO) in Pasadena. He identified as "The Antichrist" and performed Thelemic rituals intended to usher in a new occult age.
In the 1940s, Parsons befriended L. Ron Hubbard (who later founded Scientology). The two engaged in the "Babalon Working," a series of rituals to manifest a goddess, before Hubbard eventually left with Parsons' money and his wife.
Parsons died at age 37 in a 1952 laboratory explosion at his home. Whether the blast was an accident, suicide, or murder remains a subject of debate. Reader Insights & Reviews
In his short 37 years, John Whiteside "Jack" Parsons embodied at least several different roles in one tormented but glorious life. Go to product viewer dialog for this item. Sex and Rockets: the Occult World of J
The book served as a primary inspiration for the TV series Strange Angel . Buying Information
This title is published by Feral House and is widely available: Go to product viewer dialog for this item. Sex and Rockets: The Occult World of Jack Parsons
