The Must-Read Book Club
Michael Guiou: I’ve owned this book three times and given it away three times; soon I’ll need to buy my fourth copy.
Aghora gives an viscerally frank and unapologetic look at tantric practices and the life of a spiritual aspirant. It is the first book in a trilogy about the teachings of the Tantra practitioner Vimilananda, of whom Mr. Svoboda was a student. Tantra is movement on the fringe of traditional India philosophy and left-handed tantra is a fringe movement of the fringe movement.
YCNYC: Favorite quote?
MG: "Here in India we believe in watching the artist at work, not in looking at the work of the artist. Artistry is not what the artist produces but is the artist himself, producing. A great composer’s music may be transmitted from generation to generation in the West. Our great musicians do not concentrate on creating compositions; they create new musicians to maintain the progression of the artistry."
YCNYC: What one person would you recommend this book to?
MG: Anyone who has ever taken or taught a workshop on “tantra.”
YCNC: What moment or part resonates with you the most?
MG: The detailed descriptions of tantric sex. Spoiler alert! Tantric sex is no fun.
You can purchase Aghora: At the Left Hand of God here.
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