First published in “The Occult Review” circa 1914; the language shows A.C.s usual eloquence. It divided into two parts.

Part I, The Journey: Outlines the problem of unhappiness caused by inner turmoil and the solution found in stilling thought. Crowley describes the difficulties encountered when making the attempt and the temporary nature of the “cure.” The remedy must be taken again as needed.

PartII, The Desert: Crowley holds forth on the qualities of the desert as a site for spiritual retreats. The seeker experiences the threefold formula of Yoga. At first the novelty is pleasant for a time. Next comes a dark night of the soul with excruciating boredom intensified by solitude. Eventually (if he can persist) the ravings of the seeker are exhausted and he enters the third phase. With calm and peace he becomes newly at home in the desert with its vast, stark vistas, omnipresent sun, moon and wind. Thus a desert retreat can aid in the stilling of the mind, as described in part I. Crowley also comments on the simplicity of casual sexual encounters, saying that all those things often associated with sexuality (romantic love, marriage and other social customs, etc.) are unwholesome accretions on natural simplicity. If he attains exceedingly he will confront a fork in the road as it were: dissolution in the Godhead or turning away, turning back to cling fiercely to the self (though such is ultimately a losing battle).