The Magical Diaries of Leah Hirsig, 1923–1925

Abstract This section of the book presents the complete, preserved magical diaries of Leah Hirsig, dating from 1923 to 1925 and supplemented with a selection of letters between Hirsig and Aleister Crowley as well as other important figures involved in Crowley’s religion, Thelema. The diaries provide details of Hirsig’s everyday life and magical practice, as well as her diet, health, and interpersonal relationships with Crowley and the other Thelemites, her family, and her lovers. The period covered by Hirsig’s diaries coincides with some of her major magical transformations; the final months of her romantic relationship with Crowley; and their breakup, as well as the ensuing months in which Hirsig sought to renegotiate her role within the Thelemic movement after having been demoted from the position of Scarlet Woman. The included letters add insight into Hirsig’s thoughts and personal relationships throughout the longer period 1919–1930, dating from the first months of Hirsig’s relationship with Crowley to her final communication with the latter and her departure from his religious movement.