To me a book is a message from the gods to mankind; or, if…
“To me a book is a message from the gods to mankind; or, if not, should never be published at all. A message from the gods should be delivered at once. It is damnably blasphemous to talk about the autumn season and so on. How dare the author or publisher demand a price for doing his duty, the highest and most honorable to which a man can be called?”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Crowley argues that a true work of art must be a divine revelation, otherwise it is sacrilegious to profit from it.
In simple terms: A genuine book is a god‑sent message, not a commodity.
Key Takeaway
Demand integrity, not profit, in creative work.
Themes
art
divine inspiration
integrity
commercialism
Mood
reverent
critical
Type
philosophical
controversial
When to use this quote
- publishing
- literary criticism
- authorial intent
- ethical sales
Key Concepts
theology
aesthetics
authorship
Questions to Reflect On
- What defines a work’s sacredness?
- Can art be both divine and marketable?
A Different Perspective
Even revered works can be commercial; balance is needed.