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Selected Interview Bits About Magic


In the past, some critics have accused Cradle of Filth of somehow being misogynist - especially their imagery - so how do you react to such charges that dark sexual imagery is inherently sexist, particularly in the light of some describing the lefthand path as essentially a feminine current?
I am surprised, even provoked, to hear that someone would call a band who portray such fascination and admiration for the darker aspect of the goddess as sexist. Dani and Cradle of Filth clearly embrace the strong feminine sexual energy that has been feared and demonised by patriarchal religions. This was the reason I participated. I find it much more provoking to see these "gang" guys and Glam Rock bands on MTV that have these meaningless bimbos hanging around them like hens. But then, of course, in general, I think "critics" should leave musicians alone and let them express themselves in the way they want to. They should instead attack the real sexists and fascists in society.
To be honest, I don't really like the term "left path" or "right path"; it reflects this Christian "either or" mentality, I think. Magic is magic, we use it for light aspects and dark aspects. Obviously it is through working with the darker and hidden aspects within the self that one learns about one's own nature and desires - thus it is very fascinating.

Is sexual energy a common aspect in Witchcraft and Magic?
Sexual activity is a primal need to survive and to bring forth another generation so that life itself can continue. Witchcraft is a natural art, based on the natural wisdom, making use of natural substances and strong emotions and enchantment and, thus, of course, sensuality and passion. Since the sexual emotional experience is alike to the death experience - which Sigmund Freud called the "Eros (god of Sex) and Thanatos (god of Death) syndrome" - it is only natural that this intense emotion has always been used within magical practice.

A lot of witches claim they are white witches. You are dealing with black Witchcraft?
Well, first of all the narrow-minded terms "Good" or "Evil" and "Black" or "White" were created by the unnatural dogmatic, middle-eastern patriarchal religions. The narrow-minded idea of "Good" and "Evil" has no place in the natural Pagan world, since the Pagans believed in a harmony between the opposite forces. The Christian considers all natural impulses as "evil"; on the other hand, the denial of nature and the bowing down to one's male tyrant god is considered as "good", so I don't think the words good and evil are in any way rational. "Evil" and "Black" are all the things the Christian cannot understand and thus fears. Because even if things are hidden that does not mean they are dangerous.

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