Book Review: Encountering the Dark Goddess - A Journey
into the Shadow Realms
by Frances Billinghurst (Published by Moon Books)
Review by Daniel Bran Griffin, The Chattering Magpie.
It is rare that I
write a book review. By the time I get around to the actual writing, the book
has often been in print quite some time. My thoughts are therefore, of little
value to the publisher; even if my fellow bibliophiles would and do appreciate
my opinion. On occasion I am asked to write a review by a publisher or by a
magazine editor.
I often decline these invitations and the accompanying offer
of a free book. I do this because for reasons that puzzle me, I am frequently
asked to reviews works that are not of interest to me and would not under
normal circumstances consider reading. I am of the opinion that under these
circumstances, others could write a more appropriate and appreciative review. This
does mean that I have refused the offer of a work that I could potentially have
sold later for profit but honesty prevents me from accepting these offers.
Encountering the Dark Goddess by Frances Billinghurst is therefore, something
of an exception. This is a work on a subject that is of interest and is indeed
a book I would read.
This work is a
very personal creation for Billinghurst, well written and ably illustrated (by Soror
Basilisk), the author takes us through a journey, an encounter. Thirteen
Goddesses are chosen somewhat idiosyncratically perhaps, for this journey. Each
chapter is representative of the deep personal relationship that the author has
with these Goddesses. Although historically whether all were recognised as
Goddesses is open to debate, undoubtedly each one is an otherworldly being of
importance.
The journey is an
expression of the work the author has carried out for many years, writing,
studying and running Goddess focused workshops. There is experience in every
sentence and importantly respect. To quote the author: 'the Gods are real, very
real' As a polytheist, I agree that each Goddess should be approached with deference
and this respect is a key feature of the author's work.
The sections of
the work consist of a general introduction to working with and approaching the darker aspects of divinity. This is followed by the major chapters on each
relevant Goddess, complete with history, meaning, advice and correspondences.
These sections are well researched and informative. The final part of the work
is of a generalised practical nature which includes purifications, spells and further
craftwork.
This third section
also includes a deeply personal testimony by the author herself, discussing her
recent illness and the changes that it has brought about. Unforeseen and at
times, unwanted even if necessary. These changes are discussed with sensitivity
and surprising honesty. If it was not already obvious then this chapter alone
would emphasis the personal nature of the work. The intricate and complex
nature of the relationship that the author has with divinity itself is a moving
read and this chapter serves to tie the work together into a cohesive whole.
This works offers the reader an insight into a series personal encounters,
informative, respectful and practical.
Daniel Bran Griffin, The Chattering Magpie, is a poet, and photographer. Some of his work can be found in Call of the God: An Anthology Exploring the Divine Masculine within Modern Paganism including the cover image.
