What do you think?
Rate this book
Demons of the Flesh: The Complete Guide to Left Hand Path Sex Magic
Demons of the Flesh is a comprehensive and unflinching overview of the erotic initiation and sexual sorcery essential to the mysterious magical tradition known as the "Left-Hand Path."
Part exploration of this taboo area, part manual detailing the actual mechanics of sex magic, the book draws on the pioneering studies of Aleister Crowley and Jack Parsons to penetrate the veil of secrecy surrounding the ecstasies and dangers of these practices.
Zeena and Nikolas Schreck have collaborated on several musical, written, artistic and spiritual projects together, including the avantgarde musical group Radio Werewolf, Nikolas Schreck's documentary Charles Manson Superstar, and the Liberation in this Lifetime course. Nikolas is the author of The Satanic Screen, Flowers from Hell: A Satanic Reader, and The Manson File: Myth and Reality of an Oulaw Shaman, to which Zeena contributed her iconic art suite "God Bless Charles Manson" as cover art and chapter plates. Zeena is the leader of the Sethian Liberation Movement.
485 pages, Paperback
First published October 15, 2002
54 people are currently reading
2888 people want to read
About the author
Nikolas Schreck
10 books593 followersAmerican writer, musician, film-maker, and spiritual teacher whose work focuses on magic, mysticism, mythology and the macabre. Schreck is married to Zeena Schreck (Formerly LaVey) the daughter of the founder of the Church of Satan, Anton Lavey
Together with his wife he founded the Sethian Liberation Movement and wrote books about sex magic, portrayal of Satan in cinema and Charles Manson.
He is also the founder of the gothic-industrial band Radio Werewolf, which was active from 1984 to 1992.
Together with his wife he founded the Sethian Liberation Movement and wrote books about sex magic, portrayal of Satan in cinema and Charles Manson.
He is also the founder of the gothic-industrial band Radio Werewolf, which was active from 1984 to 1992.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
October 11, 2015
The lurid cover and its amateurish typography left me unprepared for the content: well-written, articulate, with a nice blend of scholarship, humour, and frank language.
The authors provide a list of references without connecting them to the text by citations. Considering the complexity and density of the content, probably a wise decision, but this reader was left wondering, time and again, 'where on earth did they pick up that piece of information?'
The book is divided, chronologically and logically, into several sections. The first gives a broad historical overview of the 'sinister' left-hand path of sex magic, focusing on its roots in ancient India. Another section covers the appearance, suppression and resurgence of the left-hand path in the West. The authors devote considerable space to biographies of some of the leading figures in the resurgence; material that was, for me, eye-opening. The latter part of the book turns to the practice of sex magic with useful, but perhaps fairly predictable, advice on single, dual, and group workings.
The last and least convincing section is a lengthy and unbalanced treatise on the use of S&M and BDSM as an aid to sex magic.
The authors have an unfortunate tendency to repeat themselves. Perhaps this was a deliberate didactic choice, but it raised a suspicion that the book was put together from lectures delivered to different audiences at different times, or that it was written over a prolonged period of time, long enough for the authors to forget what they had already written.
Having defined the left-hand path as a process of self-deification, with or without the assistance of a partner, the comparatively long and detailed examinations of orgies and BDSM (especially the latter) seem to contradict the core thesis. The authors themselves are aware of this contradiction, occasionally apologising for what might appear to be an inconsistency, then returning enthusiastically to further exposition of the contradiction. By the time they deliver advice on the preparation and furnishing of BDSM dungeons, at least one reader felt that they had wandered away into areas of personal interest.
This book is a definite keeper, well worth a second or third reading. As a manual of do-it-yourself sex magic it leaves much to be desired, presenting little more than sensible advice and a glimpse of possibilities awaiting the seeker. As a comprehensive review of the subject-matter it succeeds admirably -- at least from the point of view of someone unfamiliar with the history, psychology, philosophy, and even neurology of the left-hand path.
The authors provide a list of references without connecting them to the text by citations. Considering the complexity and density of the content, probably a wise decision, but this reader was left wondering, time and again, 'where on earth did they pick up that piece of information?'
The book is divided, chronologically and logically, into several sections. The first gives a broad historical overview of the 'sinister' left-hand path of sex magic, focusing on its roots in ancient India. Another section covers the appearance, suppression and resurgence of the left-hand path in the West. The authors devote considerable space to biographies of some of the leading figures in the resurgence; material that was, for me, eye-opening. The latter part of the book turns to the practice of sex magic with useful, but perhaps fairly predictable, advice on single, dual, and group workings.
The last and least convincing section is a lengthy and unbalanced treatise on the use of S&M and BDSM as an aid to sex magic.
The authors have an unfortunate tendency to repeat themselves. Perhaps this was a deliberate didactic choice, but it raised a suspicion that the book was put together from lectures delivered to different audiences at different times, or that it was written over a prolonged period of time, long enough for the authors to forget what they had already written.
Having defined the left-hand path as a process of self-deification, with or without the assistance of a partner, the comparatively long and detailed examinations of orgies and BDSM (especially the latter) seem to contradict the core thesis. The authors themselves are aware of this contradiction, occasionally apologising for what might appear to be an inconsistency, then returning enthusiastically to further exposition of the contradiction. By the time they deliver advice on the preparation and furnishing of BDSM dungeons, at least one reader felt that they had wandered away into areas of personal interest.
This book is a definite keeper, well worth a second or third reading. As a manual of do-it-yourself sex magic it leaves much to be desired, presenting little more than sensible advice and a glimpse of possibilities awaiting the seeker. As a comprehensive review of the subject-matter it succeeds admirably -- at least from the point of view of someone unfamiliar with the history, psychology, philosophy, and even neurology of the left-hand path.
December 22, 2017
Nikolas Schreck is an American Born writer and left-handed philosopher and spiritualist. He has traveled internationally with a trip to Egypt in 1983 as one of the defining moments in his life as it was there that he discovered the God Set and became his practitioner.
Zeena Schreck was formally known as Zeena Galentea LaVey, is the daughter of Anton LaVey of the Church of Satan. She obtained international notoriety at the age of three as she was baptized by her father into Satanism and has been a practitioner of what is known as the “left-handed path” for the whole of her life.
Demons of the Flesh: The Complete Guide to Left-handed Sex Magic was given to me by a dear friend after I expressed my frustration with the Satanic community, who claimed all magic was within the realm of Satan and essentially left-handed in nature. Though when I challenged these professed Satanists to explain what they meant, no one would accept the challenge.
I found this book to be well composed and articulate. It had a great deal of historical information on personalities like Anton LaVey and Alcester Crowley. I found the history of the Church of Scientology (as an off-shoot from sex magic sects) particularly disturbing. The information presented on the Hindu Goddess Kali was fascinating and I may decide to gather more information on her.
As I understand, with the aide of this book, sex magic is the practice of channeling the energy gathered during love making, using it in a ritualistic forum to effect magical change. While I would have to agree that that particular energy would probably be quite potent, I personally have no desire to attempt any of the applications presented.
The Schrecks’ attempted to convey that the left-handed path is not “better” than a more conventional spiritual path, but explained that very few can manage the left-handed way with success. Indeed the Schrecks’ detailing of Crowley’s life led me believe he was nothing more than a sex addict who ruined his life with his unabated lust. Personally I did not see the advantage of the left-handed path when physical ruin and insanity seem to be the side effects. They did present one success story: Jesus of Nazareth, which disturbed me more than their accounting of Scientology. As one who was raised Christian the idea that all the beliefs given to me as a child might actually be the exact opposite of the truth had me reeling for my breath.
However once I got over the shock, I had a new understanding of the reasons why an individual may pursue a left-handed spiritual path. The Schrecks often referenced India where to this day a system of chaste claims dominion over every aspect of a person’s life. The left-handed path gives its practitioners a way to break out of that oppression, if only for one night during a ritual of magic. Likewise in the Christian-Judeo climate of today’s world, many find it stifling and seek out an extreme alternative to satisfy an unfulfilled spiritual need. With that under consideration, one cannot deny it is a viable spiritual option for some.
My test for a great film or book is whether it stays with me and I remember it. This book is highly rated and I must concur that the Schrecks are probably the best authorities on Satanism, the left-handed path and Sex Magic. As my friend knew it would, this book answered many of my questions concerning Satanism. It is exceptionally informative and most certainly memorable. It rocked me to my core, challenged all of my beliefs, and hurt my heart. However I cannot deny the true knowledge gained. I know my beliefs are sound and right for me. My Goddesses will heal my heart and I will be made stronger for the experience.
Zeena Schreck was formally known as Zeena Galentea LaVey, is the daughter of Anton LaVey of the Church of Satan. She obtained international notoriety at the age of three as she was baptized by her father into Satanism and has been a practitioner of what is known as the “left-handed path” for the whole of her life.
Demons of the Flesh: The Complete Guide to Left-handed Sex Magic was given to me by a dear friend after I expressed my frustration with the Satanic community, who claimed all magic was within the realm of Satan and essentially left-handed in nature. Though when I challenged these professed Satanists to explain what they meant, no one would accept the challenge.
I found this book to be well composed and articulate. It had a great deal of historical information on personalities like Anton LaVey and Alcester Crowley. I found the history of the Church of Scientology (as an off-shoot from sex magic sects) particularly disturbing. The information presented on the Hindu Goddess Kali was fascinating and I may decide to gather more information on her.
As I understand, with the aide of this book, sex magic is the practice of channeling the energy gathered during love making, using it in a ritualistic forum to effect magical change. While I would have to agree that that particular energy would probably be quite potent, I personally have no desire to attempt any of the applications presented.
The Schrecks’ attempted to convey that the left-handed path is not “better” than a more conventional spiritual path, but explained that very few can manage the left-handed way with success. Indeed the Schrecks’ detailing of Crowley’s life led me believe he was nothing more than a sex addict who ruined his life with his unabated lust. Personally I did not see the advantage of the left-handed path when physical ruin and insanity seem to be the side effects. They did present one success story: Jesus of Nazareth, which disturbed me more than their accounting of Scientology. As one who was raised Christian the idea that all the beliefs given to me as a child might actually be the exact opposite of the truth had me reeling for my breath.
However once I got over the shock, I had a new understanding of the reasons why an individual may pursue a left-handed spiritual path. The Schrecks often referenced India where to this day a system of chaste claims dominion over every aspect of a person’s life. The left-handed path gives its practitioners a way to break out of that oppression, if only for one night during a ritual of magic. Likewise in the Christian-Judeo climate of today’s world, many find it stifling and seek out an extreme alternative to satisfy an unfulfilled spiritual need. With that under consideration, one cannot deny it is a viable spiritual option for some.
My test for a great film or book is whether it stays with me and I remember it. This book is highly rated and I must concur that the Schrecks are probably the best authorities on Satanism, the left-handed path and Sex Magic. As my friend knew it would, this book answered many of my questions concerning Satanism. It is exceptionally informative and most certainly memorable. It rocked me to my core, challenged all of my beliefs, and hurt my heart. However I cannot deny the true knowledge gained. I know my beliefs are sound and right for me. My Goddesses will heal my heart and I will be made stronger for the experience.
December 31, 2020
I certainly learned a lot about the origins of terms such as "left-hand path". I appreciated the history lesson, the practical applications (even though this was not meant to be a how-to book), and the theory behind the "sinister current" and "feminine daemonic".
I didn't like how they repeated the same ideas over and over again. This book could have been a lot more concise. If it were, I think it would have been a five-star read for me.
I didn't like how they repeated the same ideas over and over again. This book could have been a lot more concise. If it were, I think it would have been a five-star read for me.
August 4, 2012
Schreck's seminal work- definitely the best of the sort of Satanic trilogy books released including also Satanic Screen and Flowers from Hell- Contains a lot of original research which, frankly, a lot of books on the left hand path lack.
August 14, 2012
Most of Nikolas Schrecks work only appeals to niche audiences (serial killer fans/ criminology/ Satanists or other occultists) this work, done with Zeena of course, is probably the best of the three non Manson related works, and since only 88 original copies exist it's understandably sought after.
August 2, 2012
For those looking for a weird, inauthentic new age treatise on the occult, skip this book! This is real, historical, left hand path occultism, which you will find too "real" for you.
August 19, 2012
In depth look at the topic of sex magic- although it also delves into gender and sexism as well from a more eastern point of view.
March 14, 2023
Total dnf material. New age western occultism is not only cringe but moronic too
December 12, 2020
great book for the history and traditions. I learned a lot but it’s not a practical guide for application
August 22, 2012
The best work ever made on the left hand path- clears up a lot of confusion folks seem to have between the occult and the authentic left hand path- two disparate systems which folks often consider the same thing.
August 2, 2011
intelligent treatment of (real) LHP principles/history and BDSM in magick.
July 24, 2012
Wonderfully well made, and probably more educational than most of the stock in the genre (for the left hand path/ magic) might be the only good book about sex as it relates to magick.
July 23, 2012
Simply grand
Read
July 24, 2012interesting stuff
July 30, 2012
This book rips the lid off the forbidden knowledge of taboo practices, and there practical application. A worth-while read, very thought-provoking.
July 31, 2012
Purely the best book on the left hand path ever created, hands down.
August 1, 2012
Nikolas Schrecks best work to date
August 13, 2012
Excellent work on the reality of the left hand path tradition.
August 13, 2012
Invaluable.
August 13, 2012
The only good sex magick book which exists.
August 14, 2012
Definitely recommended for all magickal practitioners. Probably won't appeal to certain occult groups which practice new age, judeochristian-morality-informed versions of pseudo occultism.
Want to read
August 15, 2012Overall very good.
August 16, 2012
Very good work.
August 18, 2012
A good book overall.
August 20, 2012
Overall a good look at some history and modern practice within sexual magic- Ave!
August 21, 2012
Documents various roles of sex, women, gender, and forms of mysticism in different eastern mystical traditions. A very good read.
August 28, 2012
Very good work.
September 2, 2012
Very, very good work on true esoteric wisdom and practice.
September 15, 2012
Extremely worthwhile endeavor into the true, authentic left hand path practices of the east.
Read
October 3, 2012not yet.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews