"There are no books that compete with this one which, I believe, will be seen as the definitive book on the subject. I feel that I have a better understanding of a good many of Yeats' poems as a result of having read the book, and I am sure that this feeling will be shared by everyone." — James Olney, Louisiana State University"The author deals unapologetically with Yeats' alchemical studies and applies them convincingly in his critical readings of the stories and poems. By reducing Yeats' complex and eclectic occult studies to a single alchemical theme, he provides an accessible and attractive interpretation of the influence of the poet's occult beliefs on his life and art."The high point of the book is the chapter on 'Mystical Marriage,' where the author uses unpublished materials in a provocative and illuminating way." — Marsha Keith Schuchard