Alkemye Book Club

Something new here at Emeth

Reading has always been a big part of my life, and I know that you are a reader too, otherwise you wouldn’t be here.

Photo by Asghar Khan on Unsplash

In some important ways, reading is solitary. Properly, it is a lifelong pursuit that we look forward to embracing with joy. It’s a powerful way of connecting with another individual without the barriers of space and time.

Reading can be social too. We can talk with others about what we are reading and how we feel about the work. We can review what we have read and make recommendations to others. We can discuss what we have learned and what we find valuable in a work.

I can’t help but notice that in my time here, writing about Freemasonry on Emeth, Society under my own name, and Tarot on The Keystone, a little community has been formed. A group of people with similar yet eclectic interests.

Given that, we need a Book Club.

When we read, we are transformed. We are a different person after reading an impactful book than we were before. With each succeeding book we continue the process of refining that which is base metal into gold. By reading we are creating the Philosopher’s Stone within ourselves.

The Alkemye Book Club.

I hope that you will join me in it, right here on Substack’s Chat:

Here’s what you can expect:

• I will propose one book per month. A book that we can read together and share our thoughts about as we progress through it. My reading habits are as eclectic as can be imagined, but I’ll try to stick with significant books, with a wee bit of good fun thrown in.

• It is my hope that in addition to whatever book I’ve proposed, you will chime in to let us know what you are reading as well. Tell us all about it so that we can share your joy in finding another great book.

• Non book discussion is important too, so don’t be afraid to let the conversation range. All I ask is that it not become divisive, and that it remains civil.

• Our discussions will take place via text on Substack’s Chat. We won’t be asking anyone to join on video, or making demands on time. If necessary (I sincerely hope that it is never necessary) I will moderate the discussions.

I hope that you’ll jump in with us at the Alkemye Book Club!

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December 2024, Selection:

Meditations

by

Marcus Aurelius

I've been aware of this book because those who are interested in Stoicism are really into it, but I never thought to read it myself, simply because Stoicism isn't really my thing.

I figure Epicureanism bordering on Hedonism is more my speed!

But, recently I was gifted a copy of Meditations by a friend, and I have to say that it is excellent! Excellent enough that I've bought copies for most of the people on my Christmas list.

I hope that you will grab a copy for yourself, and that we can share about it throughout December.

How do we feel about it? What do we find valuable within it?

There are a number of translations available, I'm reading the Hammond translation and am quite happy with it. I understand that many people like the Hays translation as well.

Let's chat about it...

You can get a copy here.