I recently read Marcus Anthony’s novel THE MIND READER. As regular visitors here know, Marcus has frequented the blog and we’ve posted some of his synchronicities and other musings. For those unfamiliar with Marcus, he’s an Australian Phd futurist and author who until recently was living in Hong Kong. His blog delves into psychic and spiritual matters as well as a intuitive take on the future that goes beyond the nuts and bolts outlook of many futurists.
I was curious about his novel, especially because he refers to it as semi-autobiographical. THE MIND READER tracks the spiritual initiation of a floundering Australian college student, Greg Marks, who somewhat naively steps into a group – Journey of Light – under the domain of a powerful but imperfect leader. In order to develop psychically, Marks must assume the mantle of other members of the group – invading their emotions, thoughts, and motives– and play out their worst issues, often in front of the person he is depicting. Of course, the same happens to Greg as other members dive into his psyche.
I found the somewhat ruthless and cultish interior workings of this group fascinating, and as a committed non-joiner, it was decidedly unappealing. Working with such a group no doubt can speed one’s spiritual and psychic development, but it’s not without a price. Did it work for Greg? Yes and no.
Within a few months, Greg becomes quite competent in reading minds and connecting with his inner child, a major part of the inner work. But as he develops his abilities and sees into people’s thoughts and motives, his ego gets the better of him. As a result, he opens himself to powerful dark energy, especially after he foolishly confronts a group of skeptics in their own territory.
It took me quite awhile to read the 500-page book, because of other stuff going on. But I kept coming back and looking forward to see what happened next to Greg. It’s a good read for anyone pursuing spiritual development or even thinking about it. Greg is a flawed but sympathetic and believable character. Julie, the leader of JOL, on the other hand, didn’t appeal much to me. Greg, who becomes dependent on the group, gets kicked out not one but twice. I don’t think I would’ve lasted more than one session under Julie’s tough love.
In fact, in reading the book, I was reminded of a personal experience. Years ago, I connected with a group that was meeting in a desert setting in the Southwest. The focus of the group was dream development and, in fact, I was there in the dream state. At the same time, I felt I was there physically. I questioned the leader of the group, who was someone quite famous, and he instantly banished me to ‘fifth-degree kindergarten,’ whatever that is. I bolted upright in my bed, baffled by what I was doing there, then realized it was all a dream. A short time later, the leader of the group had a new book out. It was called The Art of Dreaming.
Don’t let my prejudices against self-proclaimed ‘gurus’ keep you from reading Marcus’s book. The first part is a bit slow, as we follow Greg through some typical college angst. It could’ve been shortened, but the pace quickly picks up once Greg gets involved with the JOL group. It’s a good ride and a good read.
Rob
During my lengthy spiritual journey, one of my early teachers said, “I cannot teach you anything. I may only help you remember what you already know”. This is the most succinct comment I’ve ever heard, and have never forgotten.
Great line, Math.
Not much into most spiritual leaders, as they tend to finally disappoint and have their own furrow to plough. In saying that, seems a good idea for a book though, interesting to see the goings on of such an organisation from an insiders perspective.
Sounds like you were dreaming about Carlos Castaneda to me.-)
Carlos!! 🙂
Psychologist Shelden Kopp wrote a good book called “If You Meet The Buddha On The Road Kill Him!” (https://www.amazon.com/Meet-Buddha-Pilgrimage-Psychotherapy-Patients/dp/0553278320). The title is from an ancient Buddhist saying …….. don’t get stuck on Gurus, it’s the teaching, not the teacher.
I would like to read Marcus Anthony’s book, and wish him great success. I have the same allergies to “leaders”, which sometimes is unfair on my part, but I’ve also seen many people who take on the role of spiritual leaders abuse their position and the vulnerability to their followers.
btw, Megan’s art in previous post is gorgeous! Congratulations to her!
Thanks, Lauren, she’ll love that, coming from another artist.
about 4 years after the boys life was TOTALLY changed,, a parent afforded him the opportunity to speak with a phys (coli or citri, not sure) after a few 4-7 sessions, he was referred to that book (if U meet B……) would of like to of thought the guy was telling me you’re OK, just need to figure it out… hmmm how I’d wind up here then Syn…. like N other..blank -4 =5 but before that was garden state… the boys aka once “gar”