Goth Craft: The Magickal Side of Dark Culture

by Raven Digitalis

When Paganism and Goth culture collide, prepare for a powerful blend of independent thought and magickal tranformation.

Learn how to channel dark emotions, express yourself magickally through the dark arts of clothing, hair, makeup, body modifications, and choose appropriate Goth music for ritual. Try some spellcasting on the dance floor.  Discover the workings of shadow magick, death energy, and blood magick.

Find out what draws us to the dark side. " Goth Craft is a sexy and serious A-Z of dark culture's collective tribal identity. More than just a demented 'Preppy Handbook' for a different era, Goth Craft goes beyond  mere fashion, taking readers deep into the magical currents of this emerging subculture. Fascinating."
―Richard Metzger, host of Disinformation and editor of Book of The Disinformation Guide To Magick & The Occult

"Don't let your assumptions fool you ― Goth Craft is a lovingly written and carefully researched piece of work. It covers the intersection of Gothic subculture and Pagan spirituality from every conceivable angle, and manages to be both fun and eye-catching along
the way."
―Michelle Belanger, author of The Psychic Vampire Codex and editor of Vampires In Their Own Words

"An insightful, honest, and spiritual exploration of the intersection of Witchcraft and Goth."
―Christopher Penczak, author of the Temple of Witchcraft series

Genres: Nonfiction, Goth, Spirituality, Witchcraft, Paganism, Gothic, Wicca

316 pages, Paperback

First published September 1, 2007

About the author

Raven Digitalis (USA) is an award-winning author best known for his “empath’s trilogy,” consisting of The Empath's Oracle, Esoteric Empathy, and The Everyday Empath, as well as the “shadow trilogy” of A Gothic Witch’s Oracle, A Witch's Shadow Magick Compendium, and Goth Craft. Originally trained in Georgian Witchcraft, Raven has been an earth-based practitioner since 1999, a Priest since 2003, a Freemason since 2012, and an empath all of his life. He holds a degree in cultural anthropology from the University of Montana, jointly operated a nonprofit Pagan temple for sixteen years, and is also a professional Tarot reader, editor, card-carrying magician, and animal rights advocate.

www.ravendigitalis.com
www.facebook.com/ravendigitalis
www.instagram.com/ravendigitalis

Reviews

[Patricia · Rating 2 out of 5]

Most everything about it was generally annoying and very kindergoth (read: Hot Topic).

The thing(s) that pissed me off most were the author's definitions/explanations of sex, gender, and orientation.

This book reads like a Wikipedia entry, and by that I mean, it probably has gone through no sort of decent content editing whatsoever.

I'm going to go cut myself now. (No no, that's a GOOD thing!)

[Aurélien Thomas · Rating 2 out of 5]

Obviously, not all Goths are pagans and not all pagans are Goths. Yet, the two universes can easily overlap, and many Goths indeed can be attracted by modern esoteric movements (Asatru, Wicca, Thelema, Satanism...). Why is that? Raven Digitalis is a Goth. He also defines himself as a witch and a neo-pagan priest. Being part of both world, I thought it would be interesting to get his view. Well...

He brushes a vast overview of the Goth movement, showing why it's not surprising some of its most common features (use of pseudonyms, body arts, sexuality, fascination with the dark and gloom...) can fit in really well with some spiritual New Age cults. Was that interesting? Yes. Was that instructive? Well... I love dark and extreme music, yet I can't care less about occultism - which I personally consider mumbo jumbo. So, the author being way into it, I was interested by the connections he made; but his attempts to sell me his doolali (or so I felt) annoyed me quite frankly.
Now, what about the music? Well, I had a laugh about how he sees the Goth scene! Here's your typical trendy teenage boy, putting as much emphasis on hair styles and clothing than music. Whatever. I don't want to be negative though, so, at least, I will give him credit for throwing lists of bands worth a listen...

If you're a pagan and a Goth, with an open mind...

[Steve Cran · Rating 3 out of 5]

I guess I will take the position as the odd man out. Raven has gotten well literally rave reviews from some pretty big people in the craft world. Such like would include Raven Grimassi, Lon Milo Dugquette, Aaron Leitch and Christopher Penczak. The book has gotten a lot of 5 star rating with a smattering of 1's , 2's and 3's. I will be another three. I have read book on the darker side of magic and the craft and I have thoroughly enjoyed reading such authors as Konstantinos, John Coughlin and a few others. THey gave me something that I could use. This book has nothing that a newcomer to the craft can use. If you are new to magick and witchcraft let me steer you in the direction of Donald Michael Kraig's "Modern Magic" or Raymond Buckland and Scott Cunningham, these authors will have something you can use. Really Goth Craft????

I found the beginning of the book rather interesting. I enjoyed reading about how the term Gothic came about. Anyone with a slight knowledge of history will know that it refers to Germanic cultural concepts. The Goths were Germanic. In later times Goth became associated with horror. I found reading about the different types of Goths to be very interesting and intriguing. But then is this magic or witchcraft. I found this book very suitable for a teenager who is contemplating on entering the craft or Goth scene. I like the fashion tips and the inside view on the philosophy of Goth. Maybe he should have written a book on just Goth.

There is talk about Vampyrism both sanguinary and psychic which is all good and well but if you have done your reading then this is just a candy coated review. Raven does talk about blood magic and how powerful it can be and there are a few instructions on witch bottle. But this book does not discuss Sabbats or Esbat or even a Gothic way of going about it. Who are some of the Dark Deities that a Goth who does not shy away from death embraces? Where are some rituals that can be used.

In a nutshell Raven should have written it as a guide to the Goth world. There are techniques on how to apply make up and how to dress. Great stuff for someone new to Goth. Great lesson on how to interact with people, including outsiders and fellow gothers.

I took nothing out of this book. There are great books that discuss the dark side of the craft. I have mentioned them above. Try working Ceremonial Magick or Goetics. The book gives plenty of lead for further research and there is a good over view for those wanting to look at different forms of magic. But to me the book is very basic.

[Crystal · Rating 1 out of 5]

I wanted to like this: aside from my interest in the subject, the graphic design was appealing. However, my primary turnoff was the author's tone; the book reads like a stern step-by-step instruction manual.

Raven Digitalis proclaims the Goth subculture as an 'alternative' to the mainstream--whatever that really is--but the presentation contradicts by instead defining another sort of conformity. Also, I'm aware that this has been a long-standing issue within the community, but I was not happy with the section on "NotGoth"s, wherein the author did more than "poke fun" at those people (not just teenagers) who would 'pose' as Goths because they listen to Marilyn Manson, Nine Inch Nails, or shop at Hot Topic (the store to which the author was likely referring). It was not really explained why these people would be considered inferior to or less valid than a "FaerieGoth," a "SophistiGoth," or any other category of Goth the author outlined. The Gothic Lolitas draw their inspiration from the fashion scene in Japan and they are not discredited by this. Why should someone then be labeled "NotGoth" for identifying through a certain band or fashion store?

I find it interesting that although the author alienates these "NotGoths"s for their music, he continues to assign musical proclivities to each category. Some are lucky enough to have their musical tastes "depend entirely on the person," but others are given choices--granted, ending in "etc." Perhaps this was meant to convey that these are the bands these types of people usually prefer, but I find it all on very touchy ground when considering the subject's overall problems with nonconformity, yet mass alienation, and the author's continuous lapsing into an attitude of whimsical elitism.

The politics of the Goth subculture are interesting. There is a history to this "alternative," but who really can be upheld as an authority, a voice, who could "(expose a person) to the right influences and give accurate advice on the reality of dark culture...should their effort be from the heart"?

The book's approach does not match its own standards: openness, unique perspective, richness of spirit.

[Weslyn · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book definitely hasn’t aged well and I found a lot of the information cringeworthy. The explanations of gender definitely don’t work anymore. I was only reading this book for “fun” anyway, but it’s not one I would recommend. I was especially appalled by some of the discussion on cutting and blood magick. While I think blood magick is completely valid, I felt like this book didn’t do it justice. I definitely wouldn’t recommend this book to anyone wanting more in-depth information on the craft.

[Lilla · Rating 3 out of 5]

Upon beginning the book, we are instructed on what is Goth. We are shown the types of people who are considered Goth and what type of apparel they wear and music they listen to. After that we venture into the Craft. Some basics are mentioned here like what is a Witch, the types of Witches, and the different traditions (and the symbols of those specific traditions and while the author does tell that Satanism is not a form of paganism, it is will included since some in the Goth scene are attracted to it).

Part three consists of the Philosophies of the Dark Witch. Raven shows that “dark” does not mean evil but being willing to work with and acknowledge your shadow shelf/side. He continues to show the reader about attitude and personality, discipline and traditionalism, utilizing emotional energy, and using effigies as emotional channels. The following section is called the Dark Arts but unlike its name has nothing what so ever to do with what some would consider dark arts (like cursing, necromancy and etc). Rather it discusses the clothing, makeup (including a very informative section on various makeup styles and how to achieve them), hair, and body modification (complete with a table of piercing correspondences). Section five, aptly entitled Sex, Drugs and Rock ‘n’ Roll, deals with the ways of making magic. Raven suggests using music, dancing, drugs and alcohol, and sexuality (includes a section on queer-friendly gods and goddesses). Section six discusses Magick, a list of useful tools, powerful symbols, ethics, craft names, ritual. Section seven talks about the Gothic fascination with death, including blood magick, vampirism, death magick, and necromancy.

Along with many colored photos (most taken by the author himself) and an awesome overall design, this book is a eye-opening view into the gothic subculture and is much better than other books I have read on the same topic. If the darkness beckons you, answer the call with this.

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

It is so hard being a "goth". On one hand, you have people telling you what is goth, and on the other, people tell you what isn't...if a rule book could be made, it would become obsolete, as the subculture really shouldn't be about rules either. This book could have been something dreadful, it could have been full of the pretension and hypcrotical whining that writer Jhonen Vasquez potrays in his stereotypical goth characters (see Johnny the Homicidal Maniac for details). Instead, it became a light-hearted, and well-intentioned guide for people with one foot in gothic subculture, and another in the world of paganism and the occult.

The two often go hand in hand, sometimes for the wrong reasons, and sometimes for the right. Raven, himself a goth, and a pagan, has written a book to show how the two can go together very well. He spends a part of the book expaining the gothic subculture in the way he sees it (as many goths have slightly varying views) and explaining some of the gothic styles, types and attitudes. But he also goes on to explain various pagan religions and beliefs, which made a very interesting read for me, as both a goth, and as a person with agnostic but pagan leanings.

I can't say I agree with all of his religious views, as thats just how I am, but it made for a delightful and enlightening read all the same. And as for the sections that related more to the slightly more material gothic subculture, well, it was a real fresh of breath air to read someone encouraging goths to be happy and be their own person, and that it doesn't matter if they wear colours and glitter, as there is a place for that in the world of goth also. It didn't make light of the slightly soppy aspects of the subculture, or bash emos and babybats. It also had a good dollop of humour, not taking oneself too seriously- something all goths need to do ;)

[Natalie · Rating 1 out of 5]

Nothing but the author's opinions on how certain types of Goth should dress, act, and what music they should listen to. It's a handbook on how to be a poseur and tries to give counseling advice. Ridiculous!

[MKF · Rating 2 out of 5]

It was hard to take a lot of the information in this book seriously.

[Eve · Rating 1 out of 5]

I was excited to dig into this book and walked away quite disappointed. It was a complete waste of money in my not so humble opinion. As a pagan and a goth (a rather old one as I am pushing 46 years), I was hoping to find something informative and useful in this book, I found neither. In fact, I found his skewed views in this book off putting and judgmental. Also, his blurb on suicidal ideation is more than condescending. Suicidal ideation is a mental illness and he was patronizing about it. Then he yaps about cutters...if he knew anything about cutting (not for body modification) it isn't just for seeking attention but a way for a person to ease their own emotional/mental pain...and he goes on to Damn near encourage cutters by saying "If you are a 'cutter' , consider it an unconscious cry to reclaim your power through intensive magick, as well as a need to release built up energy..." Piss off with the b. s. Raven! As someone who has worked in the human services field for over 20 years, cutters are often survivors of extreme trauma and are physically trying to ease their emotional pain...perhaps encourage someone who is a cutter to get professional help! You can still seek spiritual pursuits while getting professional help. That was a huge turn off, then he went on encourage said cutter "Carefully cutting yourself in moderation in ritual can be beneficial." Wtf Raven? ! Now, if you are into body modification, that is totally different but this paragraph on pg. 140 is geared towards cutters not body modificators. The goth social worker in me wanted to shake him and scream "wtf! Think before you publish shit like this!" He knows nothing about mental health issues or mental illness and should obviously refrain from writing about it until he gets his facts straight! There was little discussion on magickal works. His various definitions of the goth subculture (sophistigoths etc etc etc)....and his views on gender and sexuality within the goth and pagan communities should be taken a large grain of salt. You may or may not like this book. I thought it was rubbish. Go read Konstantinos or Michelle Belanger instead.

[Stella]

Met the author years ago and read his first two books as part of that acquaintance. Interesting.

[Mande · Rating 2 out of 5]

Painful. Didn't age well.

[Brad · Rating 4 out of 5]

I myself am not goth, but I am a Neo-Pagan witch.

Essentially this book successfully fulfills the following goals:

1) To effectively describe, define, explain, and provide a window into Goth and Goth culture.

2)To effectively describe, explain, define, and provide a window into various branches of Neo-Paganism and Witchcraft as well as their cultures.

3) To dispel the common misconception that all goths are pagans/witches or that all witches/pagans are goth. Digitalis also dispels misconceptions that exist about each camp individually.

4) Effectively explain and provide a window into the population that truly does exemplify the intersection of these two cultures and important information regarding the integration of the two.


Digitalis has garnered much unfounded criticism from 'old schoolers' and 'traditionalists' for his cutting edge approaches and willingness to write about controversial topics. However, I think a person should retain an open mind and read this book for themselves. Digitalis is one of the minds that will carry on the Craft for future generations, assuring it's growth and continuance. The next generation is upon us. I must say I myself am proud to be a part of it as well!

[Nikolaj · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5 stars (I really wish goodreads did half star ratings!)I really wanted to like this book. I'll just come out off the bat to say that, but I just couldn't get past the fact that it had very little information besides a very brief skimming overview of a select few 'witchy' topics. It had a pretty good chunk dedicated to goths and goth culture that was very interesting to read, but it didn't have enough about the other side that the book is about. It discussed goths in depth, discussed how magic(k) related to goths, but not so much the actual magic(k)al side of it. Definitely read this if you're interested in goth culture with a dash of pagan interests/beliefs, because it is an interesting read, it just didn't go into enough detail for my tastes.

[Drikus · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this book, to understand what Goth is. It is a very descriptive book, which could be deemed an eye-opener. The author is a self-proclaimed pagan witch. He speaks from that point-of-view, and makes the connection between the contemporary Goth characters, with history, and his own practice of the pagan craft, as a contemporary Goth.

He does not dwell much on the past. My need was to understand more of the historical Goth culture, and how it relates to today. There is a lot of information on that though, but the book deals mainly with today's perspective, and how witch-craft (paganism) is, and ought to be practised.

[Ariel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ever wondered what a Goth is exactly? What types there are?? Or what kind of things their into?
^^
Well then you better stick your nose in this book!!! This gives you a thorough breakdown of the lives of every type of Goth there is. It also includes the history of the Goths and the "magic" and symbols some use today. Each page gives you a brilliant picture that will have your mind stuck on it for a while. And each one is VERY detailed.
>3
This is the absolute guide to the world of the Goths. And it rocks!!!!

[Ashleigh Furry · Rating 1 out of 5]

This is the WORST book to ever pick up if you do not know anything about the craft and all of the different "goth styles" are NOT real. They even try to call Metal Heads goth in this book! It seems as though they act like if you are goth and wiccan you condone drugs and sex with rituals, etc. This is NOT true! The book does have some creative photography images in here but honestly that is all that the book is good for.

[Jenn · Rating 3 out of 5]

I'm an adult, and I can admit when I was wrong. When I spotted this book at the library, I picked it up thinking it was a book of alternative crafts. Upon first glance, I found the overt sincerity of the book amusing-the magical properties of eye makeup! However, upon reading it, I must admit it was a fascinating look at a culture I'm not terribly familiar with. Very interesting!

[Child_Of Fire · Rating 5 out of 5]

Raven Digitalis is a brilliant writer. He is able to bridge the gap between the Goth lifestyle and Witchcraft. He shows that Not all Goths are Witches and Not all Witches are Goths. It's a good read for both of the aboved mentioned and for those Goths that ARE witches and Witches that ARE Goths.

[Stephanie Denison · Rating 3 out of 5]

I don't think I'm going to read this book so much as skim it.

[Danny]

I LOVED THIS BOOK SO MUTCH I ALOMOST DIED IN THE MIDEL OF IT

[Marlee · Rating 2 out of 5]

Very cliché, simple instructions. Thought I would get a better look at the Goth mindset.

[Brittany · Rating 2 out of 5]

it's a really weird and sort of different book!! To me anyways!!!

[Sharon Atkinson · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was quite enjoyable eventhough it was non-fiction. It was very informative.

[Regina Hunter · Rating 3 out of 5]

It's cool, but it has a peculiar taste.

[Sumayyah · Rating 3 out of 5]

More about being Goth than about the Craft.

[Kayla Gilmore · Rating 5 out of 5]

this book is awesome lots of good information.

[Mimielle LaFauve]

ordered August 25, 2014 for 'The Project'

[Lindsey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very interesting and informative. It dispels many of the misconceptions about goth culture.