Sinfully Delicious Online Magazine

Awhile back an entity known as ‘Tier Instinct’ sent me a friend request and message on MySpace. I happily approved of his friendship and later, we agreed that an interview would be very interesting for the site. That is what you will find located below. Tier Instinct is a musician and a certified citizen of The Church of Satan. He has put together a project called ‘In Through This Devour’ which is set to have an album released by Black House Tribute Records in the soon to be future. His project has also seen air time on radio shows namely ‘The Haunted Noctuary’ and Radio Free Satan. Please take a moment to sit back, relax and read this brand new interview he has done for SDOM. I hope you enjoy.

1. What first attracted you to Satanism? How did you first discover The Church of Satan?

A.) I learned of Anton LaVey when I was a teenager. I read an interview with King Diamond in some metal magazine where he spoke of Anton LaVey and admitted to being a Satanist. Years later the name came back to me and I wanted to read more about Anton LaVey, so I purchased The Satanic Bible at a local bookstore. B.) After reading The Satanic Bible a few more times I went back to the bookstore, and purchased The Satanic Rituals. This was all that they had in the store but asked if I would like to order more from the author. I looked over their list of available books on Satanism and ordered The Secret Life of a Satanist by Blanche Barton. This is when I first discovered Church of Satan.

2. If you have had or could have the chance to speak with Anton LaVey, what would you of liked to talk to him about, what questions would you ask him?

I did not have the pleasure of meeting Doktor LaVey. I would have liked to discuss his synthesizer clock, and manipulation techniques that he wrote about in what is now known as The Satanic Witch. This a book that fascinates me and is a life long study. Also, I would have liked to talk with him about some of the people he has met and who had influence on him. His days in high school and the experiences he had then would make for interesting discussions. Then, I would like to have heard him talk more about his time with the carnivals and the circus shows he worked.

3. If you had to name 5 Satanic/occult books (outside of the works of Anton LaVey and Blanche Barton) that you would recommend for others to read what would they be? Who is your favorite author?

A.)
The Satanic Scriptures – Peter H. Gilmore
Essays in Satanism – James D. Sass
Beyond Good and Evil – Friedrich Nietzsche
The Antichrist – Friedrich Nietzsche
The Human Zoo – Desmond Morris

B.) Anton Szandor LaVey

4. What would you do if another Satanic Panic broke out in the media and America? What is the biggest threat facing Satanism in our modern age?

Nothing different than I already do. I keep a look out at all times for crazy people who would be threatened of my existence. The hierarchy in Church of Satan have gone to great lengths to educate the media on what Satanism is, and is not. There are no threats to Satanism that I can see. I guess some would say Devil Worshipers, or Pseudo-Satanists are a threat, but stratification will win out. There have always been Satanists and there always will be Satanists.

5. Artificial Environments. Artificial Human Companions. Both terms invented by LaVey. How much of a role do these two things play a role in your life? Do you have any suggestions on how to create these environments or companions for other Satanists?

I would suggest reading the literature by Doktor LaVey on the topic of a total environment. Each will find their own reflection and aesthetic demand. As far as the Artificial Human Companions are concerned, well, how can one go wrong? With a bit of imagination, one has the perfect artificial companion in every way. I think they are even making a Real Doll that speaks, and moves, too.

6. How important is ritual to you in your life as a Satanist? Is ritual absolutely necessary for magic to work it’s effects? And do you think the act of conducting magic in ritual a ‘faith based’ idea or it is more scientific than that?

Greater Magic is important to me, but it is something that I rarely discuss outside of the Church of Satan. It is scientific because science is a collection of facts that have been proven to work. Satanism is not about faith, but rather about what works. Greater Magic works!

7. If Hell was real, who might you first try to contact when you arrive there?

Gilda Radner

8. If you could change this world in any way whatsoever what exactly would you change?

Everything is as it should be. I do not think it is wise to work against nature.

9. Please tell me about any projects you might have and where you’re at in the online world.

I have recorded an album of spoken word that is accompanied with original special effects. ‘In Through This Devour’ will be available soon on Black House Tribute Records. The magic and charisma that is ‘In Through This Devour’ was created for my own pleasure, but soon became a project to be released out into the world on Black House Tribute Records.

Check out the official site for reviews at inthroughthisdevour.weebly.com and at myspace.com/inthroughthisdevour

10. Any final thoughts or anything you’d like to share?

To comprehend Satanism, one must first understand that Satan is a symbol. It is when we step into our intellectual decompression chambers that we exalt our most highest god, Satan. Which for myself, and most Satanists that I know, is an extension of ourselves.

Hail Satan!

1. What first attracted you to Satanism? How did you first discover The Church of Satan?

Back in 1999, incident had it that while visiting a friend who I found used to own a copy of The Satanic Bible (TSB), I came to read a few passages. I was supposed to pick up the guy for band practice, but when I arrived at his place he was still busy talking to some girl on the phone which simply didn’t seem to end. A transient glimpse at his bookshelf instantly directed my interest at a paperback copy of TSB. After briefly flipping through the chapters, I started to read The Book of Satan and from then on simply devoured every passage. The very next day I ordered a paperback copy of TSB which I eagerly studied from cover to cover the day I received it. Never before had I come across such an accurate account of how life really works. It was an incredible realization to have my basic understanding of this world basically works spelled out in front of me. Soon the other works of the Doctor’s followed causing a similar ignition.

From this point, discovering the Church of Satan was simply the next consequential step to take and helped me a great deal in deepening my understanding of Satanism. Also, the Church of Satan – website provided the starting point to learn about the manifold projects and creations of the Infernal Empire’s hierarchy. It was in 2002 that I finally became a registered member of the Church of Satan. I still remember the strong feeling of delight that filled me when I first held the red card giving proof of my membership in my hands. Since then my affiliation with the Infernal Empire has been a most enriching and fulfilling addition to my being. A number of doors have been opened and many exciting projects have emerged that have deeply inspired me and considerably enhanced my success in the real world.

2. If you have had or could have the chance to speak with Anton LaVey, what would you of liked to talk to him about, what questions would you ask him?

Unfortunately, I did not have the pleasure of meeting the Doktor in person. More than anything else, I wish I had the chance to make a visit at the Black House and get to know our Founder in person. That would be an absolutely priceless experience to converse with him surrounded by this very prototype of a total environment. There are of course many questions that I would like to ask him and it would be most exciting to exchange personal experiences reflecting the application of Satanic principles. To speak to the Doktor about the collection of oddities he was said to have had as well as about the human companions he had created would be as thrilling as the subject of visual patterns and shapes that influence our behavior. To perceive the named concepts firsthand and to witness their impact on me would be most instructive. I could probably add to this list endlessly and yet it would already be a supreme pleasure to enjoy the Doktor’s presence. One thing that I would definitely do is to express my sincerest gratitude and admiration for what he has created.

3. If you had to name 5 satanic/occult books (outside of the works of Anton LaVey and Blanche Barton) that you would recommend for others to read what would they be? Who is your favorite author?

1.The Satanic Scriptures by Magus Gilmore
2.Essays In Satanism by Magister J. D. Sass
3.Nemo On Satanism by Magister Nemo
4.Bearing The Devil’s Mask by Magister Paradise
5.How To Make Friends And Influence People by Dale Carnegie

A favourite author is certainly hard to name, considering the large number of excellent authors I could name here. As regards fiction, these would include but not be restricted to Shakespeare, Milton, Greene, Nabokov, Zola, Hoffmann such as Poe and Lovecraft in the field of short fiction. When it comes to the wide field of non-fiction, it is clearly the works of the Doktor’s and said high-ranking members of the hierarchy that stand out, as these have had the strongest impact.

4. What would you do if another Satanic Panic broke out in the media and America? What is the biggest threat facing Satanism in our modern age?

Considering the specifics of our contemporary computer and information age, this would be highly unlikely to occur both in the country in which I reside and in the US. Taken together, the vast amount of information available by mouse click and the high degree of networking have led to a situation, in which public assertions and claims can easily be checked for their validity. Nowadays, the whole Satanic Ritual Abuse (SRA) myth has been thoroughly debunked. People are simply not buying that nonsense anymore. Meanwhile, there is vast evidence for the large number of Christian clerics responsible for child molesting and sexual abuse. Magister Svengali and Priestess Graham have created a first-rate blog documenting this phenomenon. Doubtlessly, aside from child pornography networks, the various institutions run by the world religions present the major venue of child abuse today. It must be a real thorn in our most fanatic enemies’ side that Satanism is law-abiding in every regard. Simply inventing obscure horror stories and spreading these over and over at the campfire clearly doesn’t have as much of an effect as it used to have back in the eighties. Let’s nevertheless assume the scenario of another Satanic Panic spreading became reality. Even if that was the case, I doubt that it would personally affect me that much, because only a few close friends and family members are aware of my affiliation. I’m certainly not the type of person to exhibit a Baphomet bumper sticker on my car. Generally speaking, the mere idea of Satanists becoming victims of a strongly restrictive social climate such as that of a Satanic Panic appears to be a contradiction in terms to me.

With respect to the second part of your question, my estimate is that Satanism so to say ranges pretty much on top of the food chain, not only compared to other religions but the scope of schools of thought in general. It is not in any way affected by any of the common confessional mud fights going on out there. Neither does it provide religious fanatics of whatever denomination with a target, since it is only a very small percentage of humankind that thoroughly understands Satanism. And even though, there are some considerable nuisances such as devil worshippers giving Satanism a bad name, but these are far from being a real danger.

5. Artificial Environments. Artificial Human Companions. Both terms invented by LaVey. How much of a role do these two things play a role in your life? Do you have any suggestions on how to create these environments or companions for other Satanists?

Total environments play an important role in my life in many ways, starting with my immediate surroundings that I shape in accordance with my aesthetic likes. My lair is a good example in so far that you find very old and massive pieces of furniture here as well as a variety of items and object from long forgotten eras. Among these are also a few very rare items and collections of old books, records, weapons, etc. Many objects have a very special history and remind myself of certain aspects or periods of my past. What is sometimes considered as uncanny or archaic by visitors provides an atmosphere of beauty and timelessness that I feel most comfortable with. Furthermore, my affinity to art deco and the old-fashioned extends to almost any area of life. The crackling sound that accompanies the songs of an old record is always preferred to CDs and the ticking of a clock that is a hundred years old simply has an incomparable appeal. Occasionally, I also find the inspiring quality of total environments by simply driving a certain street at night in an old car listening to music from tapes that I have recorded some 20 years ago which adds many components that bring up memories of certain situations and events. It is a way to re-capture or conserve specific sentiments to activate these when I feel the desire to do so.

Artificial Human Companions are evolving into an increasingly important field of research and development. This covers various facets and goes far beyond the Real Doll – industry that is often immediately associated with this item on the programme of Pentagonal Revisionism. Beyond the just mentioned example, I’m particularly fascinated with every aspect related to artificial intelligence (AI) and robot applications. This affinity started back in childhood/adolescence years when first encounters with chess computers and very early AI computer applications took place.

We are approaching the point of strong AI becoming increasingly indistinguishable from biological intelligence. To get an impression of the advancements achieved here, one may have a look at the level of strategic behavior of artificial opponents in modern computer and video games or AI applied for translation purposes. And yet, these are just the more obvious examples of a general concept of constantly growing importance in almost all areas of life. What I find especially interesting is how specific applications like for instance chat-bots have developed in terms of strongly resembling human behavior. The artificial linguistic entities developed by the Artificial Intelligence Foundation (A.L.I.C.E.) are a splendid example and if I were into online chatting at all, I would prefer chatting with one such artificial entity. Picture such entities included in the most up-to-date android/robot entities and you have a very sound idea of where we are going.

We are living in absolutely exciting times. Many nowadays commonplace aspects of technology had been considered as pure science fiction by even my parents’ generation just fifteen or twenty years back. Keeping an eye on these developments, individual Satanists will surely spot promising means and applications for their personal needs and desires. More specific suggestions for other Satanists would be difficult since personal preferences and aesthetic requirements differ a lot.

6. How important is ritual to you in your life as a Satanist? Is ritual absolutely necessary for magic to work it’s effects? And do you think the act of conducting magic in ritual a ‘faith based’ idea or it is more scientific than that?

Ritual has become an integral part of my life from the very moment its effects became evident for me which was shortly after reading TSB and TSR. As many Satanists, I have started from an atheist background and a thoroughly materialist perspective. In so far, my focus was mainly directed on the dimension of psychodrama at first. The possibility of manipulating objective reality by means of ritual however, was something that needed to be validated by my own personal experiences first. That took me some time, especially because I tended to be a die-hard skeptic back then. Once I was able to turn the switch to de-activate my skepticism for at least as long as the given ritual lasted, things changed remarkably in terms of results.

Given that Lesser Magic offers a large variety of tools to manipulate others, a great deal can be accomplished this way in the Satanist’s everyday life. From a practical point of view, what matters is that one’s goals are achieved in an efficient way, regardless if by means of Lesser or Greater Magic. However, once one has validated magic in ritual as a workable way to produce real life results, it would be unwise to ignore this option. There is an essay of the Doktor’s in The Devil’s Notebook titled The Combination Lock Principle that elaborates on the interlocking of Greater Magic and objective reality in a most brilliant way. Considering the mechanisms explained, ritual in Satanism is a very earthly and results-oriented instrument. Even though, science in a traditional sense regards any belief in magic as superstition, science itself is constantly re-structuring its explanatory models and its understanding of reality to adjust it to new findings and insights. Therefore, much of what had been considered sorcery in former times has become scientific discipline by now. And yet, magic as referred to in your question remains one of the blank spots here. Rather than the term ‘faith’ which denotes a continuous state of believing, I would describe the mental preset as temporary suspension of disbelief. Outside of the ritual chamber there is no need to enter this state of mind.

7. If Hell was real, who might you first try to contact when you arrive there?

That would be the waiter.

8. If you could change this world in any way whatsoever what exactly would you change?

Pentagonal Revisionism completely implemented on every level would do the trick. Other than that, there are of course a number of adjustments that I would personally love to see performed to my own advantage, any of which I do what is feasible to see these take place. Consider it a game of chess highly exponentiated in its complexity. With some practice and strategic skill a small advantage here and there can easily be gained. Gross advantages, however, do of course require a lot more and involve a number of factors that need to be taken into consideration. Certainly, the balance factor comes in here and limits the scope of individual possibilities accordingly. Once you have acquired an understanding of your role as a doer and your potential radius of action, it becomes obvious that time spent envisioning your own utopia and longing for it to become reality is a waste of precious resources. Considerably more, I view it from a rather practical angle instead of pondering about a perfect version of this world. The focus is basically what can be done now or as soon as possible to make my existence here and now more enjoyable. This means working on many different fronts and developing awareness regarding changes and upheavals that bear the potential to significantly benefit from. Take for instance what is at present often referred to as the financial crises. I could name quite a few aspects that I have found ways to prosper from. Apart from that, I view these developments as a necessary process of stratification which brings us back to Pentagonal Revisionism.

9. Please tell me about any projects you might have and where you’re at in the online world.

There is my electronic music project The Invisible War which is basically intended to create what I personally consider ideal acoustic environments for the ritual chamber. In fact, there have been several occasions when I have been looking for a particular piece of music fitting such a very specific need. Starting to tailor my own arrangements is how the whole project came up. Very soon however, I found profound delight in composing pieces of music even beyond the initial purpose and it turned into a very fulfilling endeavour. What I do especially appreciate is the fact that I’m solely in charge of everything. It is this D.I.Y. approach that fits my way to go about projects all too well. A website with more comprehensive material on this project is also in process of planning as the extent of material grows.

Furthermore, writing essays and articles on various different subjects as well as reviews of books, movies or music makes a pursuit that I enjoy a great deal. Several of my essays have been published in different magazines and a selection of my written material can be found on my Undercroft profile-page. Then there is a long-dated and quite beloved endeavour of mine which is exploring places and houses that have a somewhat gloomy and haunted appeal. So far, I have archived quite a few interesting photos of such places and have from time to time gone into some research regarding the history of some of these places. I’m yet unsure however, what I will do with the material. One day a website or a magazine might emerge.

Aside from the Church of Satan website, I find great delight in both Magister Ventrue’s Undercroft and the Letters to the Devil – message board. While the latter has been around for a very long time providing a paramount source of information and platform to learn from and to contribute to, the Undercroft is a relatively new brilliant tool for networking purposes with like-minded individuals. Every now and then, I post essays or articles and take part in discussions on various topics which is always a very enriching activity. And of course, Warlock Blackthorne’s Shadowmantium, his Order of the Black Dragon and his magazine The Devil’s Diary provide most excellent and rich resources of diabolic thought.

10. Any final thoughts or anything you’d like to share?

Thank you very much for interviewing me. It was a true pleasure. My best wishes for this and all future projects.

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Prometheus’ music is available to listen to online via myspace. Please check it out.
http://www.myspace.com/theinvisiblewar9

Magister Michael Rose has always been an inspiration, a role model, and one of the most powerful voices of Satanism for nearly two decades. I am extremely pleased to see his collected writings finally available to the general public. This volume is an essential addition to the Satanic canon and is a must-read for anyone seriously interested in Satanism and the Church of Satan. Open this book, open your eyes, and let the shackles of ignorance fall from your mind.
- Magister James D. Sass, Author of Essays in Satanism

Click the image to order from LuLu.com

1. What first attracted you to Satanism? How did you first discover The Church of Satan?

As a long standing Wiccan Priestess/teacher/bookstore owner/public activist I fought off accepting that I was a Satanist for years. I was hung up on what I perceived as feminism via goddess empowerment, on kindness which I was programmed (not by my atheistic parents or even Christian friends, but by Wiccans) to think Satanists lacked, and most of all because I have a real issue about rude and mean people, I was inclined to wear the biggest goddamned good guy badge I could find. I was that rare fighter who had to be a defender. I was led to believe that I couldn’t be that in Satanism.

Well, a time came when I needed to be fought for, and I had trained my covens and classes so well that magically they couldn’t fight for me due to that stupid three-fold-karma thing, and in the real world they wouldn’t fight for me because they were inherently chickenshit. My blossoming friendships with Satanists didn’t help either.

By the time I met Dr. LaVey I was pretty disenchanted with the whole thing. In my heart I finally realized what I actually was but counter-productive pride kept me in denial for several years more. Eventually I looked around and realized all the people I actually liked were Satanists, and I gave in to my nature.

2. If you have had or could have the chance to speak with Anton LaVey, what would you of liked to talk to him
about, what questions would you ask him?

We discussed movies, as he had known of my grandfather’s work as a screenwriter. We talked about Wicca’s developing (at that time) Jesus with tits dogma. The rest of that conversation is mine. If I had known that I would be joining in a few years I would have asked him a lot more.

3. If you had to name 5 satanic/occult books (outside of the works of Anton LaVey and Blanche Barton) that you
would recommend for others to read what would they be? Who is your favorite author?

The Satanic Scriptures/Gilmore, which now, by the way, should be placed in our dogmatic canon right up there with LaVey & Barton.
Bearing the Devil’s Mark/Paradise
Essays in Satanism/Sass
The Fire From Within/Nemo
Aradia: Gospel of the Witches/Leland

Most of the time
I read crap, schlock, commercial, popular fiction. I was raised on literature, you see, reading Shakespeare and Ovid at 6, Joyce at 10. By the time I could afford my own books I wanted someone to tell me a goddamned story. I’m the same way about movies, by the way. I am about as deep as a puddle.

Right now my favorite author is Christopher Moore, who is just plain funny. He kills me. My favorite of his (which actually IS NOT crap) is called Lamb: The Gospel of Biff, Christ’s Childhood Friend.

I also enjoy the recent trend of fictional accounts of historical characters, whodunnits by Fairstein, Deaver, and here is where even I wonder how the fuck I can read that crap- Patterson & Kellerman,. I love books that take place in my hometown of New York, be they fictional or otherwise.

4. What would you do if another Satanic Panic broke out in the media and America? What is the biggest threat
facing Satanism in our modern age?

Let me answer the second first., as it has become what I write about, defend against, and what stirs up all the occulty non-Satanists to absolute apoplexy. Our biggest, and if you scrape away all the symptoms, our only REAL problem is devil worshipers.

To clarify I am stating that our problem, in all of its retarded manifestations, is that devil worshipers have convinced themselves that they are simply another kind of Satanist. The nerve! The complete lack of self-awareness! The shame they bring upon us!

Christian heretics have somehow gotten the notion that if label themselves Theistic or Spiritual or Traditional they somehow legitimize their stolen (from Christianity) religion , and they negate the larceny of our name. It would be funny if they weren’t actually dangerous. Truth be told I’d happily escort them to the Hell they actually identify as a real place—that they are looking forward to. I wonder why they don’t, you know, take matters in their own hands. I guess it would just be too efficient.

They are the root of just about everything that ails us. Sure, Christians would still hate us without these idiots, BUT they’d hate us appropriately–for our self-divinity and carnal acceptance. They could decry our lack of faith, and reliance on study, but without these cunts (credit for that to UVRay) no one would see us as dangerous is a criminal way, anymore. But no, these idiots are the religious equivalent of the mullet actually bringing back much of the crap that we were accused of during the Satanic Panic

As for what I would do , the short answer is exactly what I do already, anyway. Not that individual Satanists need my help. The Panic was highly educational for us. Satanists are perfectly comfortable being stoic, and most of us have created lives where we could easily adapt to playing possum. Not me though. Nope. No, Sir.

Earlier I mentioned that my nature is that of defender. Add to that intense and overwhelming maternal instincts, and a love of teaching. Mix them together and what you get is in advocate/activist. Only this one shaves, bathes and dresses nothing like a hippy.

Given that I was quite lucky that I had already been doing media for a couple of decades when I joined the CoS. In fact it was at a Geraldo taping that I met HP Peter Gilmore in 92 or 93–I am lousy with years. Because of that I was granted the privilege of doing media regarding the CoS while just an Active Member.

It isn’t about seeing myself on TV or my name in print. Actually if you ask around you’ll find I watch my interviews once and then literally can’t bear to watch them again. I read the articles, once, just to make sure I am not misquoted–remember that you— so it isn’t about self-promotion per se. It is actually a need to be needed.

I need to defend the things and people I love. It has always been a part of my nature and in recent years it has become my raison d’etre as I have developed the ability to read my audience and respond to them and adapt my message. The easiest way to describe why I am effective at it—meaning making the mainstream listen BEFORE they light the bonfires is that I am just different enough to be interesting and just normal enough to be non-threatening to the viewers/reader/herd. I have heard many a Christian bemoan my suits or my white minivan or any of the other Mommy accoutrements that are a genuine part of my life. They desperately want my normalcy to be an act evidently unaware that EVERYONE”S, normalcy is an act!

Anyway, returning to history, please keep in mind that Wiccans got their fair share of shit during the last Satanic Panic–which, if you ask me, was three fold karma for lying about Satanists and throwing them under the bus, and they/I suffered. I had a car drive through the front window and directly into my store. I had death threats, I was assaulted. Picketing, prayer vigils, vandalism, murdered pets, my kids terrorized and ostracized and I wasn’t even identified as a Satanist then. In 1990 being a witch was bad enough.

Yet I made it through and I learned much. Throughout the 80’s I won a whole bunch of silly civil rights awards from the Neo-Pagan community which actually meant something to me back then. Now, knowing how easily they abandoned me because I refused to hold the party line and vilify Satanists for the sake of having a scapegoat to throw at the mainstream , I am glad they were lost in one of a gazillion moves over the years.

18 years later I have been occasionally surprised at a more open attitude towards Satanism by some Wiccans and Neo-Pagans I have met. Some are genuinely intrigued. Some, I suspect, were like me—Satanic to the core, but refusing to admit it to themselves. Maybe once they learn about Satanism they’ll pick up a fucking razor and discover the delights of bra shopping at Victoria’s Secret. But I digress.

During the last round of witch hunts that we call the Satanic Panic I know for a fact I genuinely changed attitudes and helped bring about the end of it. From 85 to 94 I had to have done well over 200 television interviews, double that on talk radio. The newspaper articles about the witch could fill a multitude of litter boxes. I can’t even count how many lectures and Q & A’s at colleges and universities I did. Am I gloating? Yeah, a bit but I am particularly proud of the several years that I was asked to speak at the local police academy to explain why Satanists and Witches were not the criminals but, given the climate, were more likely to be the victims of religious crimes (yeah, I know, we Satanists hate being perceived as victims or weak, but we aren‘t made of steel and back then we were radically outnumbered by those whose fear made them angel dust strong,).

So, while very, very small, I count my contribution as one the of the many factors that helped bring an end to that regrettable period. I am proud to be counted, as a tiny percentage, with about 20 other activists, a bunch of ethical medical/psychiatric professionals, a few honest authors, and, most of all, the trinity of super-heroes who finally slew the dragon that was the Panic: Kenneth Lanning of the FBI and two, believe it or not, Christians who had the decency to tell the truth , Mike Hertenstein and Jon Trott.

So when you ask where I’ll be, I can say with honesty, and a lot more ammunition than I had last time, that I will be directly on the front lines. I will challenge every lie, I will clarify every misconception, and I will demonstrate just what a Satanist is, as a neighbor, as a contributor, and as a dangerous and effective enemy. This time we might just scare them off the field before the drop of blood hit’s the ground.

And, the irony is that it is all about love.

Really.

In the world of people I love my fiancée’ and my children and grandchild above all things, then my parents, about a dozen people from growing up/high school who I maintain relationships with (including an ex-husband and his family,) and then the members of the Church of Satan. Truly. Not all, of course. That would be silly. I sure as Hell don’t even come close to knowing .0000010, BUT I can say of the members I have met it is downright freaky how many of them I have either fell in love with at first sight (platonic, obviously) or grown to love as if they were family.

I know a lot of traditional church preachers will go on about how the flock are a family once a member kicks the bucket. They also say to love your neighbor and everyone is your neighbor and blah blah blah, eat me! Their love is available at the dollar store.

I am talking about a love that is earned by admiration, talent, dedication, what we have in common, and just as important, what is unique. I am talking about honesty, the kind where you can admit what you lack and gloat about what you have, and both are equally met with compassion, and if called for, brutality—and yes, sometimes love demands brutal honesty.

So, if ever there comes a time, be it a small blog read by 20 people lying about us, or a Senate hearing trying to find a First Amendment loophole to abolish us, that is where you’ll find me. And while I have been known to lose a battle or two, I never lose a war..

5. Artificial Environments. Artificial Human Companions. Both terms invented by LaVey. How much of a role do these two things play a role in your life? Do you have any suggestions on how to create these environments or companions for other Satanists?

Artificial/Total Environments thrill and inspire me. Artificial Companions do nothing for me until they can do housework. ‘just not my deal. I hope they end up creating really good sexual ones so more marriages that are foiled by sex issues might stand a chance but I turn red and giggle with embarrassment over a fucking vibrator–’just not my bag.

It is not by chance alone that I live minutes from Disney. In terms of fun I am about 11 years old. Give me castles and talking chipmunks and roller coasters that make you believe you are hurling through space….heaven! Disney is so amazing, and I get really bored with ultra-cool people who allow the commercialism interfere with both their good time, and if they are loud and grumpy, mine. I have been known to literally walk up to assholes and remind them “Hey! You’re in the fucking happiest place on Earth, get with the goddamned program!” They look shocked and indignant but their kids are delighted.

The parks aside, the two dozen hotels that are on property each have a theme, and it is monument of achievement in total environmentalism. The rooms, the costumes of the staff, the décor, everything is designed to take you to another place and time. One day Jim and I will be married there, of this I am certain. What I am not certain of is which one!??? Will we go for turn of the century southern gentility at the Grand Floridian? Eternal Mardi Gras at French Quarter Port Orleans Resort? Perhaps have a giraffe nibbling on the branches of a tree beside the balcony at Animal Kingdom Hotel? Polynesian? Contemporary (with monorail running through it–uber nifty?) As of now I am torn between the Boardwalk Hotel that reminds you of that sort of 1930’s Atlantic City vibe, and the Wilderness Lodge that is based on the National Park Lodges a la Teddy Roosevelt with art and furnishings from the Pacific Northwest.

Anyway, I used to live in a stereotypical Satanic environment. I had the black walls and the scary stuff and usually lived by candlelight and everything was all occulty and it was pretty cool. One morning I woke up and determined two things . First, my religion wasn’t contained in my décor, and secondly, if I woke up to black one more day I was gonna go postal. Later I realized it was my situation, not my walls that was depressing me, but at the time I flew to Home Depot (which reminds me, check out my blog and support Home Depot,) bought peach colored paint and attempted to be normal. Suffice to say that worked out as well as black. The inherent dilemma was me. I hadn’t figured out enough about me to determine what my perfect environment was. As the list of hotels above prove, I still haven’t.

Other than Fred, the life-sized gargoyle outside of the front door, with a few exceptions my house is the ultimate in white bread. I even call the house Casa White Bread. Oh, yeah! I forgot. My bedroom is decorated a la Cheshire Cat. Seriously. I am 45 and I collect stuffed Cheshire Cats and Cheshire Cat knick knacks and bedding, etc…Cheshire Cat is very meaningful to me and my middle age resolution to simply enjoy the things I love without firm direction or intent– after all, the Gospel according to Kitty says “If you don’t know where you are going, any road will get you there.” At this juncture, I am cool with that.

Much more impressive than my current white bread theme at home are some of the total environments of many of the CoS members. I am blown away by the creativity and diversity.

6. How important is ritual to you in your life as a Satanist? Is ritual absolutely necessary for magic to work it’s
effects? And do you think the act of conducting magic in ritual a ‘faith based’ idea or it is more scientific than that?

As a Wiccan witch and teaching HP I did so many rituals and spells that in all honesty, I welcomed Satanism’s lack of compulsory rituals. Lesser magic/psychology and for lack of a better word, manipulation have always been comfortable and natural for me., Once I had done the ones listed in TSB and some from TSR it was several years before I adapted some of my own and then they were solidly done with intent. I am a very successful ritual magician and my spell work is a kind of neat creation that draws on, face it, a boatload of traditions and cultures. Satanism allowed me to use something I always possessed but was frowned upon in my previous religious adventure: I had the right to know, accept, and proudly declare that the magic I do, both the power and the beauty of what I do is MINE. I may want to be Rhiannon, putting those who dare to chase me to sleep, and I can pretend to be her, even use her stories as poetry, her words as a magical language, but there is no goddess Rhiannon swimming about the cosmos, waiting like a anticipating bride to be called to do my bidding. I have the power. I am the magic. Faith doesn’t enter into it. Faith is for those who are too weak, scared, or cowardly to take personal responsibility.

Better still, I love a good cursing! If you get stuck in those white light religions they act like you can face criminal charges for having angry thoughts. They are worse than Christians who at least utilize wrath, even if they call it God’s will.

At some point I realized that it is more dangerous, more “bad” to not curse than to take the chance and get it thrown back at you. Many RHP people will say “Oh! You can’t curse that child molester. It is wrong and you’ll get it back three times over.” Cowards! My Defender mode turns itself on and besides the fact that I am utterly dubious that there is a cosmic scorekeeper doing his 3’s on a multiplication chart I have to ask what asshole isn’t willing to take the punishment when you could potentially rid the world of a child molester? Curse the mother-fucker and do it good! Yes indeed, nothing beats a good cursing. Really, why bother being a witch if you can’t curse the living shit out of someone who deserves it?

That said I haven’t done anything magical since 6/6/6. No need. That sucker carried me for a good long time.

Lately, however, there is a certain surgeon I am none too fond of.

7. If Hell was real, who might you first try to contact when you arrive there?

My son who is only 15 and a young 15 at that, says that even in Christian mythology they should appreciate Satan because he punishes those who do bad things. If that is the case, I am not going. I know my heart, and if I am wrong and there is some divine creator, they know my heart as well. I assure you, as heavy metal as it may sound, I’ve already done Hell.

If I am wrong again, I will look for all my CoS friends. I love them, they will keep me entertained and learning for eternity. NIFTY!

8. If you could change this world in any way whatsoever what exactly would you change?

I think you could fix the whole world in one or two generations if every human was reversibly sterilized at birth. And to breed you had to get a license to prove the following:

You earn enough to support a child or children until they reach majority. Single parents would have to have a certain amount in escrow because in a couple if one loses income the other can pick up the slack. If a couple divorces they each need to put the money in escrow before the divorce is final/they move out.

You must be genetically tested prior to marriage, so you know in advance if you‘ll be allowed to breed, or if single and genetically unsuitable you can go on the list and potentially adopt kids created on those rare occasions of new and previously undetected genetic illnesses. Why? Because that is what you would have had anyway, and for the sake of emotionally healthy families raising kids who are likewise, it is too stressful to have broken siblings. Sad, but true.

Yes I know once a baby with a handicap is born their parents love them, and they have value and politically correct stuff that I really do have empathy for. I cry over Shriners commercials, I give to Jerry’s kids, I have even been known to go completely off at people ridiculing handicapped kids, no matter what the situation. Suffering destroys me, and likewise I want to destroy it.

But it is hard to deny that I wouldn’t need fucking empathy if all babies were born without genetic malfunctions. Let’s eradicate Downs, and Spina Bifida! Imagine the joy of knowing your kid won’t or at least is highly unlikely to shake to death from Parkinson’s or have a diabetic seizure that forces parents to decide whether or not to pull the plug. In matters of reproduction I give the middle finger to God’s master plan, and long to use science in a way that literally, not rhetorically , or hypothetically, helps mankind.

Lastly, the higher the combined IQ of a couple the more children they will be permitted to have. We claim to understand that we are animals and yet, due to our alleged compassion (more suffering, less death), we do the opposite of animals in nature. The least fit breed the most. Stupidity has been painful long enough—mostly for the people who aren’t.
1 or 2 generations, 3 tops ….imagine…

9. Please tell me about any projects you might have and where you’re at in the online world.

I am currently in pre, and doing some actual production for Radio Free Satan’s The Culture Cauldron With Lady Ygraine. Unlike my activism this is a show about what real Satanists love and do. I have spent decades telling people what we do not do. Now I want to talk about what brings us joy. I want to share the reason why I am so very passionate about our church and it’s members.

Much to my dismay I have been ill, had surgery and am still not quite all better, so it has been delayed, but we are getting there, and by we I mean myself and my co-producer and buddy and occasional co-host, Citizen Jon Thibeaux aka Caudell.

In the meantime I continue my written assault on the dime store heretics and wanna be Satanists. I remain amazed that they often contact me somehow believing I could not possible be talking about them. Just now!-!!! I am sitting in Jim’s den typing this and I check my mail and, I cannot make up the fact that Damien Blackstone, of the Temples of Satan, wants to be my friend. Well…..we will certainly have a bit of correspondence.

I now publish on several different sites. I hope others enjoy these listed here:

There Is Only One Form of Satanism
http://knol.google.com/k/magistra-ygraine-mitchell/there-is-only-one-form-of-satanism/1p4mvwi5sh5a8/1#

More From Ygraine on Satanism – Ygraine on Word Press – Various Satanic Rants
http://magistrayrainetwo.blogspot.com/
http://magistraygraine.wordpress.com/

Magistra Ygraine on Myspace
http://www.myspace.com/ygraine

I also work for hire. Readings, spell work, private lessons and lectures–I do for clients who find me online. I am really rather expensive, but, if you want proven results and extensive experience, you want me.

10. Any final thoughts or anything you’d like to share?

As I mentioned previously, my one activist focus, my one true goal, the thing I’d like to accomplish before I shuffle off the planet is to see a time when the word Satanism is mentioned, anywhere in the world, be it a mall in Toledo or a massage parlor in Thailand, and there is never any question what it is and what it means. Can you just imagine the sheer simplicity, pride, and joy of never being confused with a disgusting, dependent, weak, bowing, kneeling, begging Christian Heretic/Devil Worshiper again? I only regret that Dr. LaVey didn’t get to see it, but, I am pretty confident that with dedication and a really big mouth at it, his son will.

1. What first attracted you to Satanism? How did you first discover The Church of Satan?

I first became aware of “Satanism” through the infamous “Satanic Panic” of the 1980s. I remember watching those television programs hosted by Geraldo Rivera and his ilk and thinking, “There is NO WAY this stuff is real.” After all, if thousands of bloodthirsty nutcases were roaming the streets killing cows and abducting children, wouldn’t someone OTHER than a second-rate “journalist”/talk-show host notice?

As I grew older, I came across interviews with “Satanic” musicians like King Diamond, Thomas Thorn and David Vincent in my favorite music magazines. They all struck me as incredibly intelligent and well-spoken gentlemen, and I became interested in discovering for myself what REAL Satanism was and is. It took only one read through the Satanic Bible for me to realize that I was born a Satanist. After a lengthy period of research and consideration, I joined the Church of Satan on July 17, 2002 – my 25th birthday. I discuss my evolution as a Satanist in my new book, “Words From The Third Side: Essays on Sex, Satan & Success.”

2. If you have had or could have the chance to speak with Anton LaVey, what would you of liked to talk to him about, what questions would you ask him?

I would have loved to talk to Dr. LaVey about what he considered to be the most evocative Satanic music. Sure, he talked about his favorite tunes at length when he was still alive, but I would have loved to see his visible excitement and joy when discussing the songs that meant the most to him. If you really want to understand a person, review his or her music collection!

3. If you had to name 5 satanic/occult books (outside of the works of Anton LaVey and Blanche Barton) that you would recommend for others to read what would they be? Who is your favorite author?

I’ve always loved Gavin Baddeley’s approach to journalism. He’s a very “warts and all” writer, which is what made his book, “Lucifer Rising,” such a pleasurable read. I appreciate the fact that he gave equal space to Magus Gilmore and Dr. LaVey AND people like Paul Valentine, allowing the reader to make up his or her own mind on who were the kooks and who were the real Satanists. I also quite liked “The Satanic Scriptures” by Magus Gilmore and “Lords of Chaos” by Michael Moynihan and Didrik Søderlind. I’d also recommend anything by Magister Matt G. Paradise. Naturally, the fifth book I’d recommend would by my own!

4. What would you do if another Satanic Panic broke out in the media and America? What is the biggest threat facing Satanism in our modern age?

Technology has enabled all of us to gain information on an infinite list of topics with the simple touch of a computer key. There are accomplished Satanists in every conceivable profession and walk of life – from government to the arts. We live our lives to the fullest, and conduct ourselves without the ludicrous doctrines of Christianity keeping us running in place. With this in mind, I’d say WE are a greater threat to the status quo of herd conformity than any half-witted conspiracy theorist could ever imagine. We understand the TRUE meaning of life, and we fear nothing.

5. Artificial Environments. Artificial Human Companions. Both terms invented by LaVey. How much of a role do these two things play a role in your life? Do you have any suggestions on how to create these environments or companions for other Satanists?

My thoughts on my own use of artificial environments and companions are lengthy and could – and very likely will – inspire an entire essay from me in the near future. As far as suggestions to other Satanists… just do whatever pleases YOUR tastes. It doesn’t matter if someone else “gets it” or not. Go with what fulfills your needs above all.

6. How important is ritual to you in your life as a Satanist? Is ritual absolutely necessary for magic to work its effects? And do you think the act of conducting magic in ritual a ‘faith based’ idea or it is more scientific than that?

I discuss my thoughts on ritual at length in my new book. I tend not to practice “traditional” Satanic ritual, opting instead to indulge in rituals of my own creation. Ritual is incredibly important to my life for one simple reason – it works! I could list numerous things that have happened in my life that are the direct result of ritual.

7. If Hell was real, who might you first try to contact when you arrive there?

Warlock Shawn Poirier. I never had the pleasure of meeting the man, but his life and death led to certain events in my own life that are of great significance to me. He has become an important figure in my life, for reasons that shall remain known only to me and a very few select individuals. Hail Shawn!

8. If you could change this world in any way whatsoever what exactly would you change?

I already affect the world every day by being as happy, productive and accomplished as possible. I absolutely love my life and those who enrich it.

9. Please tell me about any projects you might have and where you’re at in the online world.

Where am I NOT at in the online world! My official website can be found at www.gaustenbooks.com. My new book, “Words From The Third Side,” can be ordered online at www.lulu.com/content/5494803. My Myspace page for my book projects can be found at www.myspace.com/gaustenbooks. I’m also on Letters to the Devil, Facebook and the Undercroft. My official biography is available at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joel_Gausten.

I am currently writing five more books PLUS working on numerous projects with my fiancee, Witch Shannon Gardner (www.shannongardner.net). We’re doing a compilation book called “Satanic Familiar,” which is a collection of essays by CoS members on their experiences with pets and animals. More information on that project is available at http://www.myspace.com/satanicfamiliar. I’m also working on some new, to-be-announced things with my old friend, Martin Atkins (Nine Inch Nails/Ministry), and will appear on the next Undead album. I also act as a media representative for the CoS.

10. Any final thoughts or anything you’d like to share?

Thank you for the insightful questions. Hail Satan!

Joel Gausten is a Warlock in the Church of Satan and has served as a media representative for the organization. His first book on the Satanic philosophy, Words From The Third Side: Essays on Sex, Satan & Success, was published on January 22, 2009. The book includes cover art and a supplemental essay on BDSM culture by artist, musician, model and Church of Satan witch, Shannon Gardner. – http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joel_Gausten

Joel Gausten’s book is available NOW through www.gaustenbooks.com

Magistra Ygraine Mitchell has posted an excellant essay on the roots of Satanism and how important they are in relation to the modern day. The essay is up on Knol and called is “There Is Only One Form of Satanism”. Highly recommended for all Satanists to read. Some of you might find what she says true while others of you might find it false. I suppose you have to look at the sources of Satanism, as her essay explains. There is only one codified Satanic religion that has stood the test of time and that is The Church of Satan. To my knowledge there are no other examples of a codified Satanic Religion. And if there are they came after Anton LaVey’s Philosophy, which essentially makes them knock offs of the original… and there are many. This essay she wrote brings up important topics such as what the differances are between true Satanism and Devil Worshippers and how important it is to spread the world that there ARE differances. It is a good essay and if you have 10 minutes of free time, I suggest you read it.

If you follow the written work of Anton LaVey and subscribe to Satanism, then this video is something you should watch if you haven’t already. It goes into his life and most importantly, his philosophy of life. And if you have watched it before, watch it again! If you’re anything like me it’s always good to watch every once in a while. I would even say, for someone that is an Anton LaVey ‘Completest’ this is a must have. It was originally released as a VHS tape (I have a copy :]) but now you can purchase it through Amazon or Something Weird Video as a DVD if you’d like to. For 10 dollars, it’s a steal in my opinion, plus you get an extra movie to go along with it called ‘Sinthia’. Sidenotes: Thanks goes out to the cosmodromium blog for bringing this Google video to my attention as well as Google Video for hosting this great documentary. Hopefully it will remain hosted there for quite some time. Grab a bag of popcorn, sit back, relax and enjoy the show!

The following book review was written by Prometheus, who is a Satanist who hails from Germany. He also has a Classical/Electronica/Ambient project named ‘The Invisible War’ on MySpace which I highly recommend everyone to check out.

Now please enjoy the following book review from him… reviewing Essays In Satanism by James D. Sass

Book Review: James D. Sass: Essays In Satanism

Essays in Satanism has left a lasting impression on me as it stands out as a milestone of profound Satanic insight. The volume contains essays covering a large variety of topics which are examined with unexcelled clarity, bringing many hidden key aspects to the reader’s attention and leaving no sacred cow unharmed. The conclusions drawn are a 110 per cent accurate and uncompromisingly aim at the very core of the given subject. One by one, the pipe dreams proliferating in current herd culture are precisely revealed as such.

Furthermore, in the auto-biographical section, the exceptional individual of the author himself is being introduced and I was immediately caught by the incredible suspense that results from following him all the way through his evilution. The world that I have had the chance to catch a glimpse of turned out to be one of the most exciting arenas filled with vivid heroic spirit. The author demonstrates a degree of precision and focus that reminds of a top elite air force flying unit determined to carry out their mission minutely. He has truly studied the human animal in all his facets including the abyss that lurks underneath the surface. It is the often denied cruel aspects deep down there that he derives profound insight from.

- Prometheus

The following book review was written by Prometheus, who is a Satanist who hails from Germany. He also has a Classical/Electronica/Ambient project named ‘The Invisible War’ on MySpace which I highly recommend everyone to check out.

Now please enjoy the following book review from him… reviewing The Fire From Withen, Nemo on Satanism, Vol.1

Book Review: The Fire From Withen, Nemo on Satanism, Vol.1 by Nemo

I have been thoroughly delighted to obtain this sterling collection of Magister Nemo’s essays from the Black Flame dating back to a period long before my involvement with the Alien Elite. It is a rare pleasure that a book instantly fascinates me to such a degree that I read it from cover to cover in one session. It occurs even more seldomly that I procede with a second reading of the work right after completing the first one.

The Fire From Within contains cristal clear, practical, to the point observations from a Third Side perspective, reduced to the very core of the issue plus a refreshing portion of humour. The author elaborates on manifold topics ranging from Greater Magic to self-defense issues, including philosophical aspects of Satanism as well as movie reviews. Being a newby as concerns firearms, the considerations and conclusions of an adept and experienced expert in that field turn out to be a most precious source of information. Not to mention, that I came to re-discover my fascination with the archetype of Batman that I recall from my childhood years. Numerous further examples could follow.

And yet, one has to read between the lines with care and wit. Hardly ever, have I come across a comparable capability to convey a maximum of quality information with a minimum of quantity in words. It is surely no incident that Magister Nemo’s work fits in so well in my bookshelf in line with the Doktor’s works and Magus Gilmore’s The Satanic Scriptures.

The tome provides strongly recommended reading for those few individuals who feel the heat of the black flame burning fiercely and for everyone who is seriously willing to acquire a firm under- standing of the essence of true Satanism. “Satanism Needs An Enema!” clears up the ever returning question whether Satanists do believe in a literal external diabolic deity once and for all, thus it would certainly save us from lengthy explanations and discussions, if only the essay was read by the constantly questioning drones.

Volume Two is eagerly longed for!

- Prometheus