Satan Speaks!

Rating:
Summary: The final (?) testament of a diabolical prophet
Review: Anton Szandor LaVey, author/compiler of "The Satanic Bible" and founder of the notorious Church of Satan, certainly had a unique position in late 20th century culture. "Satan Speaks!", published after his death, represents the final testament of this demonic prophet. Whether or not you are a Satanist, you just might find this book to be an interesting, provocative, and even enjoyable read.

A collection of short essays, "Satan Speaks!" varies in quality. Some of the selections strike me as underdeveloped, self-indulgent rants: I refer particularly to "Child Abuse," "Some Professionals and a Poem," and others. But even some of these grouchy tirades have appealing flashes of dark humor; try "Don't Bathe," LaVey's celebration of body odor.

And the best of these essays range from delightful exercises in creative misanthropy to truly thought-provoking analyses of popular culture. LaVey speculates on the connections between the Jew and the Satanist in "A Plan," discusses the potential of "The Witch's Shoe as Weaponry" in the essay of that title, and issues a fascinating manifesto for Satanic cultural activism in "The Horns of a Dilemma."

And throughout the book one can find marvelously quotable aphorisms from the man known as the Black Pope. Examples: "Is it coincidence that the most important word to a Satanist is 'Why?'" (from "The Third Side"); "Did Charlie Chaplin have a Hitler moustache, or vice versa?" (from "The Jewish Question"); or "Don't bomb abortion clinics unless you happen to need one, and they won't take you" (from "My Enemy").

"Traditional" religionists and other more "proper" folk may cringe at LaVey's writings, but to the adventurous reader, "Satan Speaks!" is a deliciously stocked candy store. Was this truly LaVey's final testament, or are there hidden demonic manuscripts of his waiting to be unleashed upon a trembling world? Stay tuned!

Rating:
Summary: Just not his best!
Review: Don't misunderstand me- I really have an affinity toward LaVey and the glories he stands for- happiness, individualism, and nonconformity paired with strength, power, and ethics, but, please, alow me to explain, as objectively as possible, the reason why I felt this book only merited the paltry three stars I assigned to it. First of all, there just isn't much applicable material contained withing its covers. Its not a practical guide to Satanism; the books only redeeming essays are the first one, and perhaps "The Good Old Days," which does manage much insight on the follies of human misconception and misinterpretation. However, those searching for LaVey's best are advised to read the Satanic Bible, The Devil's Notebook, and also The Satanic Witch. Therein you will find all the positive, wonderful info you need. I would only recomend this book to those who are true Satanists and wish to know what their founder thought. Otherwise, I recomend the aforementioned. Thank you for reading this, I hope I've assisted you in some way- if your a Satanist. Hail Satan!

Rating:
Summary: Another of Satan's Spiderwebs
Review: If you decide to review Anton's "The Satanic Bible" this would be
an interesting read as well. It gives a further look into Anton's mindset and Frame of Reference. I found him to be a bit morose in his thinking and outlook. Anton's opinion is only one opinion on social commentary - which he was entitled to his opinion. Not everyone would agree with him - but he does make a few good points however. I don't find him totally off base in his thoughts. For the record - Anton did not invent the Church of Satan much against what some would like to believe - A little Research on the subject might suggest different. Bringing it into a more socially acceptable/public forum light might be more accurate. Satan likes and thrives on the uninformed and Satanic Prophets like Anton. 2 Timothy 3:1-5

Rating:
Summary: Hilarious and thought provoking
Review: Published after his death, Anton LaVey's Satan Speaks does not focus on one immediate subject; but is instead a collection of essays from the founder of the Church of Satan on late 20th century culture. Such passages contain LaVey's rants on child abuse, connections between a Satanist and a Jew, abortion, and my favorite, the laugh out loud "Don't Bathe" which features LaVey's rampant celebration of body odor. Although it seems that most of Satan Speaks is more self indulged than any of LaVey's other works, it is still a great read nonetheless, and the bits of dark humor throughout will guarantee a chuckle or two out of any Satanist or fan of LaVey's work.

Rating:
Summary: Ehhhh
Review: This book does contain a few good perspectives and essays, but I wouldn't waste my time. When I say a few, I mean a few. The further and further I got into the book, the less impressed I was with LaVey, and the more I considered him a JOKE. Just tonight, I read a whole list of LaVey's lies - on the churchofsatan.org website nonetheless! But anyways, this book sucks. Check out some Nietzsche or Crowley instead.

Rating:
Summary: Satan Rules!
Review: This book is very fun to read, especially if you do not already know the details of LaVey's past. Some of these details are disputed by others, but LaVey is a good writer and the book keeps you interested while providing you a good understanding on the origins of his philosophy. I recommend reading it to anyone.

Rating:
Summary: For completists only
Review: This book rules!

Small portions of text filled with satanic humor. Read it...it even contains truth!

Rating:
Summary: Excelent Work
Review: This book, as many of you know. Was written during LaVey's last days with us. It is at times very cynical. And of course has it's dose of dark humor and social satire. Roll all of this together with a further explanation of some of LaVey's lesser known interests and philosophies, and you can't go wrong!

I have to say I love it! If you enjoyed "The Satanic Bible" or "The Devil's Notebook" buy this book now!

Rating:
Summary: This is a good book.
Review: This is a large collection of essays on the philosophies of Anton LaVey.

I gave it 3 stars because you have to already like LaVey before you read this to get into it easily. If you are new to the dark philosophy I suggest you read The Devil's Notebook (also by LaVey) first.

The essays this book contains are full of humor and logical truth. An excellent read for any satanis or any "would be satanist" or someone just interested in reading on someones philosophical beliefs.

Rating:
Summary: Ehhhh
Review: You'll find LaVey's cynicism and dark humor intact in this book. This book is a fun read and isn't as bullet holed as his other work with LaVey's spiritually non-spiritual philisophy. Nice one-liners that can be woven into your own conversation and make you the silver tongued golden boy of your counter culture social cliche'. LaVey's life is filled with controversy, lies, and mild delusion. Truth being untold over his decades of involvement with CoS. Truth being lost to his grave. Truth likely being lost years before his own death. This is LaVey's last work and it's like he knows it. It's an interesting look at a man, without a god to answer to, facing his death.