Aleister Crowley And Barbara Bush

The Unlikely Pairing: Aleister Crowley and Barbara Bush – A Study in Contrasts

This article explores the fascinating, and seemingly paradoxical, juxtaposition of Aleister Crowley, the infamous occultist, and Barbara Bush, the former First Lady known for her grace and philanthropy. While seemingly worlds apart, examining their lives reveals intriguing parallels and stark contrasts that offer a unique lens through which to view the complexities of belief, power, and public image. This exploration delves into their respective backgrounds, philosophies, and legacies, ultimately highlighting the diverse ways individuals shape their identities and leave their mark on the world.

Introduction: Two Lives, Two Worlds

Aleister Crowley (1875-1947) and Barbara Bush (1925-2018) represent diametrically opposed figures in 20th-century history. Crowley, a controversial figure often dubbed "the wickedest man in the world," was a prominent occultist, ceremonial magician, poet, painter, and mountaineer. He founded the religious order A∴A∴ (Argenteum Astrum) and developed his own system of magic, Thelema, based on the principle of "Do what thou wilt shall be the whole of the Law." His life was marked by scandal, controversy, and a deliberate cultivation of a shocking public persona.

Barbara Bush, on the other hand, was a beloved First Lady, known for her warmth, intelligence, and dedication to literacy. Wife of President George H.W. Bush and mother of President George W. Bush, she embodied a traditional image of American womanhood, marked by grace, quiet strength, and a deep commitment to public service. Her life was characterized by a strong family focus and a commitment to charitable endeavors.

The apparent chasm between these two individuals – one a flamboyant occultist pushing the boundaries of societal norms, the other a dignified public figure embodying traditional values – initially seems insurmountable. However, a closer examination reveals unexpected points of comparison, primarily concerning their approaches to power, self-creation, and legacy.

Aleister Crowley: The Architect of His Own Myth

Crowley’s life was a carefully constructed performance. He cultivated his image as a rebellious outsider, a magician challenging conventional morality and religious dogma. His writings, filled with esoteric symbolism and often sexually explicit content, were deliberately designed to shock and provoke. He wasn't merely practicing magic; he was crafting a persona – a deliberate act of self-invention aimed at achieving a specific kind of power.

This power wasn't necessarily political or social in the conventional sense; it was a power derived from self-mastery, the mastery of occult principles, and the control of one’s image and narrative. He sought to transcend societal limitations, to create his own reality through his will and his magical practices. His infamous pronouncements and shocking lifestyle choices were all strategic moves in this grand self-authored narrative. He aimed to be remembered, and through his deliberate cultivation of an outrageous persona, he undeniably achieved that goal. His legacy remains a subject of intense debate, but its endurance is undeniable.

Barbara Bush: The Quiet Power of Influence

Barbara Bush's power operated on a completely different plane. While Crowley sought power through rebellion and the shocking display of his beliefs, Bush exercised influence through quiet diplomacy, grace, and a focus on traditionally feminine virtues. Her power wasn't about challenging norms, but about subtly shaping them through her actions and her unwavering commitment to her values.

She utilized her position as First Lady not for personal gain, but to advance causes she believed in, primarily literacy. Her work promoting literacy programs across the nation exemplified her dedication to social good. Her influence stemmed from her credibility, her genuine warmth, and her ability to connect with people on a human level. She wasn't seeking to disrupt the established order; she was working within it to enact positive change. Her legacy is one of quiet service and enduring influence, contrasting sharply with Crowley's flamboyant and controversial public image.

Contrasting Philosophies: Thelema and Traditional Values

The philosophical differences between Crowley and Bush are stark. Crowley's Thelema, with its emphasis on individual will and the pursuit of personal liberation, directly contradicts Bush's adherence to traditional values and her emphasis on community and service. Crowley's system embraced individualism to its extreme; the individual's will was paramount, even if it conflicted with societal norms or religious beliefs.

Bush's worldview, on the other hand, emphasized the importance of family, community, and service to others. Her actions consistently reflected these values. She saw her role as First Lady as an opportunity for public service, a platform to champion causes she deeply cared about. The contrast between these two ideologies – the radical individualism of Thelema and the traditional community-focused values embodied by Bush – highlights the diverse approaches to living a meaningful life.

The Role of Public Image: Mythmaking and Authenticity

Both Crowley and Bush carefully cultivated their public images, although their methods differed dramatically. Crowley deliberately crafted a persona of rebellion and shocking behavior to generate attention and influence. He understood the power of image and used it to his advantage. He consciously built a myth around himself, and that myth continues to shape perceptions of him today.

Bush, conversely, cultivated an image of quiet dignity and grace. While she wasn't deliberately creating a myth, her public persona reflected her genuine values and personality. Her image was less a conscious construction and more a natural outgrowth of her character. While both women understood the power of public image, their approaches were polar opposites – one a deliberate act of self-invention, the other a reflection of inherent qualities.

Legacy and Lasting Impact: Enduring Controversies and Quiet Inspiration

The legacies of Crowley and Bush are equally complex and enduring, though they resonate in vastly different ways. Crowley’s legacy remains controversial; he is simultaneously revered by some as a visionary occultist and condemned by others as a dangerous libertine. His influence on occult and magical traditions is undeniable, but his personal life and pronouncements continue to fuel debate and inspire both fascination and revulsion.

Bush's legacy is far less controversial. She is remembered as a kind, intelligent, and dedicated public servant. Her commitment to literacy and her quiet strength continue to inspire, serving as a model for those seeking to effect positive change through service to others. While Crowley's legacy is marked by controversy and enduring debate, Bush’s is defined by quiet dignity and a lasting impact on the social landscape.

Conclusion: A Study in Contrasts and Unexpected Parallels

The juxtaposition of Aleister Crowley and Barbara Bush offers a fascinating case study in the diverse ways individuals shape their identities and leave their mark on the world. Their lives, philosophies, and public images stand in stark contrast, yet both demonstrate the powerful influence of carefully constructed personas and the lasting impact of individual choices. While Crowley sought power through deliberate rebellion and the construction of a shocking myth, Bush wielded her influence through quiet diplomacy, grace, and a unwavering commitment to public service. Their contrasting paths highlight the complexity of human ambition, the diverse expressions of power, and the enduring impact of individual choices on the social and cultural landscape. Ultimately, both Crowley and Bush, despite their vastly different approaches, achieved a level of lasting influence, leaving behind legacies that continue to be debated, studied, and reevaluated. Their stories serve as a reminder of the multifaceted nature of power, influence, and the creation of enduring legacies.