The Magical Universe of William S. Burroughs

This is basically a book of info sourced from all the other books on Burroughs that have come out in the last 25 years. The author basically took every mention of magic and the occult from other sources and recast them in his own words. The only reason I bought the book was for the info on Burroughs' influence on the English late 70s/early 80s industrial music scene. I believe that the REsearch book on Burroughs and Gysin is still the primary sourcebook for this aspect of Burroughs' artistic life. There snippets here and there of new info, but most of it I know from having read other books on Burroughs. But....If you are a Burroughs completist, then by all means buy this book. Like I did!

I had the idea to write a book like this decades ago and wish I'd written it myself!

This is a fascinating biography that explores the occult interests of William S. Burroughs. I always knew Burroughs was into magic and learned a lot from what he shares in his books, but this was fascinating to read because it speaks to his experiences and interests in magic and where those interests started as well as what he explored. Whether you're an occultist or a die hard Burroughs fan, this is a must read book.

I lived in the beat hotel next door to bill and there was some magic going on in brion gysin's room in the afternoon.could it have been helped by some excellent pot? Truly a magical time and place.nick smart

Very readable, very intriguing. "The Magical Universe" broadened my appreciation of Burroughs' writing. Author Stevens includes and elaborates on his sources, which makes a great jumping off point for discovering more.

Worth having for the completest and/or for those interested in this particular subject, as I am.

Very very interesting. A must read for the occultist and the artist.. WSB was into even more then we once thought.

very interesting book...William S. Burroughs saw the future of the world and described his visions in his various Cut Up novels. a must read for anyone that is searching for what went on his Burroughs' head and heart.

A fascinating tome exploring some concepts familiar to me (The Ugly Spirit, Scientology) but also a great deal that is new to me (Burroughs' links with occult associations, his fear/respect for curses).I was reading from the perspective of a Burroughs fan and not somebody with an interest in occult figures, though I daresay it would hold much of interest to occult.. (what word do I use?) practitioners? All written in a friendly conversational style that compels you to read on, backed up with plenty of relevant quotes and interesting footnotes etc.Recommended!

An amazing book. Clearly written and perfect for a reader with only basic knowledge of magical practices with plenty of references for further reading on that subject. Provides a fresh insight into the work and psychology of William S Burroughs and aids reading of his work in this light. It also looks at the Beat Generation and those who followed in its footsteps, like early Industrial bands such as Throbbing Gristle. Highly recommended to anyone with even a passing interest in the subjects.

This is an excellent book for those who are fascinated by the life and work of William Burroughs.Michael Stevens delves into magickal areas that were very important to Burroughs, and that informed much of his writing, but that have been more or less overlooked by more mainstream Burroughs scholars/biographers.It’s also the most in-depth look at Burroughs connection to Industrial and post-Industrial figures Throbbing Gristle and it’s mutant offsprings Coil and Psychic TV.All in all this book is essential for Burroughs fans. See it and go for it.

Can you get enough Burroughs? Decent book

Enjoyed it. Already knew much about WSB and his magical interests, but still lots of new detail. Wandered back and forth a bit but nevertheless interesting. It places him amongst the real magicians. For those interested in modern magic or WSB it is a good read.