"Dr Alexander Cummins is a consultant, diviner, writer, magician, and historian." The opening blurb on the website of Dr Alexander Cummins begins with characteristic understatement. The wisecracking wizard in a waistcoat, who usually introduces himself with: "Hello, I'm Al.", is most certainly all of those things.
I'd like to introduce you to the latest servitor from my stable: The Salesman.
Well, what do you know... I'm writing the monthly article ahead of time for a change. Taking a look at your month ahead in magic with March 2020.
I really need to get into a rhythm for doing these articles and getting them out the door on time. I worked hard to make sure the first two months of the calendar were completed, but never set aside time to talk about them. So, here's a little spiel for February, just a tad late.
I adore Tommie Kelly, there's no two ways about it. I don't always agree with him, but what would a good friendship be without some dynamic tension?
I've had a little time to digest the delightful whirlwind that was The Salem Summer Symposium, but I'm not entirely sure I have my thoughts in order as it were. So this review is likely going to contain some rambling and some moments of me marking memories.
So, why are we all here? Because the author (that's me) mouthed off on social media that critical editions of medieval grimoires were all fine and good, but they didn't actually make them workable.
...the practitioners of magic have always been syncretists, experimenting intraculturally and sticking with what worked. - Michael M Hughes, Magic for the Resistance
Yes, I had my first astrological consult (we've come a long way from that old Sun Signs book, baby) and it was quite educational and informative.
I wanted to have this done last week; didn't quite make it. You'll see stuff gets filled in to the calendar as I go along, so if this interests you feel free to look ahead a bit (not yet!).