Reviews
from Friends of The Besom 

Before You Cast a Spell by Carl McColman 
Reviewed By Mike Gleason, January 02, 2004

Before You Cast a Spell by Carl McColman © 2004 New Page Books
 143 pages + Appendices & Index paperback ISBN 1-56414-716-9
$13.100 (U.S.)

***

I've read some of Carl's books before and enjoyed what I read. He tends to
say exactly what he means. And he lets you know early on where his books
are going. On page 9 of this book the first paragraph tells it all: "This
book does not contain any spells, or any specific instructions on how to
cast spells, raise and direct energy, or perform any other kind of magical
procedure."

Carl's intent is to focus on the spiritual principles of magic. Unlike many
books today, this one aims to make the reader do some mind stretching
exercises. If you are looking for fluffy reading, this is not it, even
though it is less than 150 pages.

There is a tendency for some folks to dismiss this author's works as being
too basic. Perhaps that is because there is a tendency to want instant
gratification and instant success in our society. Mr. McColman certainly
stresses the basics, as a foundation upon which to build. If you do things
without understanding what lies beneath the surface, you won't be able to
understand why and how it worked (or didn't work).

The author believes, as do I, that magic should be the last weapon in your
arsenal. First you should try every mundane approach you can. Too many
Pagans do a ritual to achieve their ends and forget to put any effort into
the non-magical approaches.

Carl knows that there are those who will disagree with his statements and
positions, and accepts that. Then he offers a challenge, not to the
objections, but to the objectors. He asks them to explain why they object
to his position or statement. He wants them to think it through. Just
saying "I object" is not enough. He expects the objector to explain the
difference of opinion. Scary, isn't it? Makes you think, doesn't it? Good!

He stresses the need for each person to take responsibility. It is an all
too human trait to claim the credit and disavow the screw-ups. That,
however, should not be an option for an ethical person. Note, that was "an
ethical person", not "an ethical Pagan/Witch". If you live an ethical life,
both in your mundane and your magical life you may encourage others to do so
as well. That, my friend, is one of the highest forms of magic (in my opinion).

His opinions and attitudes will not sit well with many in the Pagan/Magical
community (he does not oppose payment for teaching, for example). If you
are willing to explore alternate ways of looking at things; if you are
willing to start at the beginning; if you are willing to work at learning
the basics before you begin casting spells, this is the book to start with.