In this episode, we’re joined by author Christopher Knowles. The conversation revolves around his new book, “Our Gods Wear Spandex, The Secret History of Comic Book Heroes.” We talk about the history of comic books and how the ideas contained and promoted in this medium can be traced directly to esoteric and occult concepts. “The collision of science, morality, and magic is being played out hundreds of times a month in comic books and other media, showing us the implications of superhuman potential. Is this an unconscious form of preparation for an inevitable shift in human reality? Should we pay more careful attention to the visionaries and lunatics who anticipate the future in comic-book storylines? In that supernatural realm called the human imagination, comic-book creators like Alan Moore and Alex Ross may be time-travelers, forecasting the future for us and showing us the way. It’s funny how it all seems so similar to the ancient myths. The past and future are always with us.” - Christopher Knowles, “Our Gods Wear Spandex, The Secret History of Comic Book Heroes” Chris’ new book does a fantastic job of explaining how comic books relate to ancient mythology and the New Age. It is well-written, and very finely illustrated by Joseph Michael Linsner. If you have any interest in comic books, their history, and their connections with occult and esoteric ideas and mythology, you will definitely want to pick it up. The connections that Knowles highlights in his book have always been there, but it isn’t until now that they have been fully exposed by someone who understands their significance. Our modern mythology may indeed just be repackaged classics from ancient times. This book is not only fascinating, but fun as well. Be sure to check Chris’ blog for frequent updates and also his upcoming appearance on Red Ice Creations Radio. relevant links: The Secret Sun - Christopher Knowles’ blog “Our Gods Wear Spandex, The Secret History of Comic Book Heroes” by Christopher Knowles and Joseph Michael Linsner, Amazon US Chris’ Amazon blog Linsner.com - web site of artist Joseph Michael Linsner “Jack Kirby” Wikipedia entry Jack Kirby Museum & Research Center “The X-Files” Wikipedia entry “Cigarette Smoking Man” Wikipedia entry “Podcast 11 - Kentroversy on Talismans and Mass Media Black Magic, pt. 1” - part of the conversation concerns Grant Morrison’s “The Invisibles” and Alan Moore’s “Promethea” as talismanic works of art “Podcast 21 - Mitch Horowitz” - part of the conversation concerns the dissemination of occult ideas and practices in 20th century America Chris Knowles previous appearance on Red Ice Creations Radio intro music by HipGnosis Technorati Tags: occult, symbolism, mythology, history, ancient civilizations, art, comic books, philosophy, religion, spirituality, mysticism, esoteric orders, eso-research, New Age Less