Exploring Clive Harper & Occultism: Insights & Resources - Discover Now
Is it possible for a single individual to leave an indelible mark on seemingly disparate fields, from the esoteric arts to the breeding of champion racehorses? The life and legacy of Clive Harper, a man of remarkable breadth and depth, provides a compelling answer: yes, it is.
Clive Harper, a figure whose influence resonates through various intellectual and cultural circles, was more than just a man of many interests; he was a polymath. He was a respected scholar of the occult, a key figure in the revival of the Ordo Templi Orientis (O.T.O.) in the UK, a bibliophile with a collection coveted by antiquarian booksellers, and, surprisingly, a breeder of successful racehorses in New Zealand. His life, a testament to intellectual curiosity and a willingness to embrace diverse passions, offers a fascinating study in contrasts. His name is often mentioned alongside Timothy d'arch smith, a name that itself carries considerable weight in certain circles.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Clive Harper |
| Known For | Author, Scholar of the Occult, Racehorse Breeder |
| Key Contributions | Author of "Aleister Crowley, the Golden Dawn and Buddhism", involved in the revival of O.T.O. in the UK, breeder of winning racehorses. |
| Books & Publications | "Aleister Crowley, the Golden Dawn and Buddhism", Contributed to numerous publications on occultism and related fields. Also involved in the sales tracking of "The Equinox" book in some instances. |
| Involvement in O.T.O. | Deeply involved in the revival of the Ordo Templi Orientis in the UK, contributing to its re-emergence in the post-Crowley era. |
| Racehorse Breeding | Bred horses that won consecutive races at Riccarton, demonstrating his skill in this field. |
| Associated Figures | Aleister Crowley, Timothy d'Arch Smith, Gerald Yorke, David Tibet. |
| Notable Publications | Contributed to the book containing "Reminiscences and writings of gerald yorke" |
| Additional Information | Harper was described as a "modest gentleman" embodying the best of intellectual breeding, and he left a legacy that has endured. |
| Website Reference | Wikipedia: Aleister Crowley - (For Context and related historical context) |
Harpers intellectual pursuits were deeply rooted in the study of the occult. He delved into the complex philosophies of Aleister Crowley, the Golden Dawn, and Buddhism, areas he explored with considerable expertise. His book, "Aleister Crowley, the Golden Dawn and Buddhism", comprises a series of essays by Gerald Yorke, who had been one of Crowley's closest associates for four years, demonstrating Harper's deep understanding of this complex subject matter. Moreover, Harpers work extended beyond theoretical study. His involvement in the revival of the O.T.O. in the UK placed him at the heart of a practical engagement with esoteric traditions. Weiser Antiquarian Booksellers recently released catalogue #236, which features titles from Harper's personal collection, displaying the influence of his engagement in the Fine Madness Society as well as the sheer depth of his personal library.
Harper's connection to the world of Crowley is particularly intriguing. For a time, Gerald Yorke, a close associate of Crowley, acted as his agent, giving us insight into the complex network surrounding the founder of Thelema. Harper's scholarly work further illuminates Crowleys life and philosophy, offering valuable context for understanding the intricacies of Crowleys writings, his place within the Golden Dawn, and his ultimate embrace of Thelema. Harper was not just an observer but an active participant in the exploration of Crowleys legacy, evidenced by his collaborations with figures like Timothy d'arch smith and his contributions to publications focusing on Yorke's recollections.
Beyond his scholarly and esoteric pursuits, Clive Harper's impact also extended to the world of equestrian sports. His horses achieved notable success, winning races at Riccarton. This unexpected facet of his life reveals a capacity for excellence that went far beyond the intellectual and spiritual domains, highlighting the multifaceted nature of his character. The races won by Harper's horses at Riccarton are a testament to his dedication and the success of his breeding program. For instance, Race 3, the 1400m r72 race won by 'Wafer,' and Race 4, the 3200m maiden steeple won by 'The Great Guru', showcase his skill in selecting and nurturing equine talent. This success provided a sense of continuity between his different areas of interest.
Harper's connection with the world of books is also notable. He was a collector, and Ledzepnews reported on sales listings for resold books, tracking some of the books sold in the Equinox Bookshop, the shop opened in London by Jimmy Page in 1974, which dealt in occult books. The advertisement for the opening of the Equinox, published in Sothis Magazine, shows Harpers connection to that community. This illustrates his interest in the dissemination of knowledge, and provides a link between the intellectual, artistic, and spiritual communities of the time. Harper's involvement in the book trade and his personal collection indicate his appreciation for the historical and tangible aspects of esoteric knowledge.
The Equinox Bookshop, captured in a photograph by Clive Harper on August 12, 1977, provides a visual testament to the importance of books in the counter-culture. The photograph, taken inside the shop, captures the essence of a unique cultural moment. Books were more than just items for sale; they were portals to other worlds, repositories of knowledge, and catalysts for intellectual and spiritual growth. The Equinox Bookshop, with its focus on the occult, was a gathering place for people who were interested in exploring unconventional ideas. Harpers photograph is a poignant reminder of the importance of books and the cultural values of the time.
The impact of Harpers legacy is further illuminated by the reminiscences and writings of Gerald Yorke, which were accompanied by a biographical introduction. The inclusion of Timothy d'arch smith and Clive Harper's contributions to the compilation of these texts illustrates Harpers collaborative spirit. The books themselves, in the bookshop, held the promise of discovery and transformation. The book concludes with a lengthy interview with Gerald Yorke by David Tibet, undertaken shortly before Yorke's death in 1983, creating a rich picture of the intellectual milieu.
The combination of Harpers interests demonstrates a dedication to intellectual pursuit and a broad appreciation for the human experience. The fact that such a diverse set of interests coexisted in one person speaks to a particularly rich and rewarding life. Harper's life serves as an inspiration, showing that knowledge and expertise can thrive across a wide range of fields.
In conclusion, Clive Harpers life was a testament to the power of intellectual curiosity, multifaceted talent, and the importance of pursuing diverse passions. From his deep dive into the esoteric world to his successes in the world of horse racing, Harpers journey underscores the richness that comes from embracing a wide range of interests and pursuits. His legacy continues to inspire and remind us of the transformative power of knowledge and the enduring impact of a life well-lived.
