Beyond the Persona: Navigating Gatekeepers and Edgelords in the Occult Community

Baal here,

I've been eager to talk about something that really "grinds my gears," and that is the fact we have edge lords and gatekeepers in our community.

Have you ever encountered those 'edge lords' or 'gatekeepers' in our circles? They often seem more focused on getting people to look up to them instead of helping them grow. I think, personally, is that you can take what clicks with you from their teachings and then just let them be. They aren't always a good representation of their work.

I first encountered gatekeeping and inauthentic authors in 2001, not in the occult specifically, but in a sister genre. I was working in a bookstore during an "interesting" time in my life. The bookstore was and still is a popular spot for famous authors. The day before the 9/11 attacks, one author I looked up to gave a talk there. The next day, as the Twin Towers were collapsing, he oddly claimed his book could help people cope with this tragedy. It was such an off-putting moment, showing how sometimes authors can really lose their grip on reality. In my head, I was like, "Shut the fuck up with that, say consoling words, don't give a sales pitch now." He was just trying to boost sales; he could give a damn about the tragedy itself. But to make it worse, he reminded everyone that he had the key to their happiness. I know, he truly has no shame.

There was also this one time when an author flat-out refused to sign an old, tattered book copy for a fan. He was pushing them to buy a new one instead. I had access to the PR room, and after his talk, all he would ask was about his sales AND how he resented having to sign books. Seriously? Aren't you the one preaching mindfulness and acceptance? Bah, that put a bad taste in my mouth. These experiences taught me something big: sometimes, you've got to separate the artist from their art. If you find wisdom in their words but can't stand their personality or self-proclaimed 'guru' status, that's fine. Not every creator is as great as their work, and that's okay. Some of the most insightful things I have ever learned have been from authors that I would avoid at all costs if I saw them on the street.

Ultimately, the most important thing is your growth and learning in your occult journey. Don't let a few narrow-minded "experts" hold you back. Remember, they started like all of us. They became knowledgeable over time. Those gatekeepers and 'edge lords'? They'll fade away, but the knowledge and experiences you gain will stick with you forever.

I will speak to you soon.

So Mote it Be!