Goth Craft: The Magickal Side of Dark Culture

Many people associate Goth with either the Columbine massacre or Marilyn Manson. But Digitalis, a neo-pagan priest, provides readers an opportunity to expand their horizons about Goth culture by starting with the basics: “What is a Goth?” Digitalis not only provides a history of Goth culture, but also includes a cheeky, fun catalogue of Goth “types” (complete with corresponding photographs) that span the spectrum—from CorporateGoths and Fetishists to MopeyGoths and PerkyGoths. Goths are “dark witches,” Digitalis explains, who practice “the magick of the Middle Path, the balanced path between light and dark” that includes “intense, sometimes unpleasant magickal workings,” but should not be confused with “black” magic. The remainder of this handbook is devoted to witchcraft—from rituals to a glossary of tools—Goth-style. Digitalis also spends a good deal of time advising readers how to handle sadness, suicidal thoughts and frequent crying, even suggesting traditional therapy as a way through “Dark Emotionalism.” Perhaps most fun for the uninitiated is Digitalis's thorough guide to obtaining Goth style with advice on clothing, the all-important makeup and piercings, among other things. Primarily, Digitalis wants readers to understand that “Contrary to popular belief, doom and gloom does not penetrate every aspect of Goth culture.” (Sept.)