Review of The Ideal Candidate by Damian Murphy

In the small coterie of occult authors working today, Murphy is the ‘ideal candidate’ for your reading list.

Whereas other comparable authors remain relatively obscure, most of his books are readily obtainable. This slim volume collects two reprints from extremely rare editions and one new novella and is a worthy addition to any collection of Decadent publications.

In the title work, the main character traverses a derelict hotel during what may be an unconventional job interview. The hotel and situation take on shades of esoteric meaning as requirements and circumstances plunge Sylvester into esoteric and puzzling activities. A stalled elevator and an enigmatic machine are only two the obstacles he faces. As in several other D. M. classics, these ‘perilous ordeals’ highlight the carefree attitude of the narrator, who relishes encounters with unknown forces. While much is left undisclosed, including the motivation of the woman dubbed ‘Decline,’ the ending serves to bring the themes into focus. Some of the myriad readings you may draw from his work include a loss of control, a surrendering to the greater machinery of the universe, and a relish in subtle subversions. Also: the peculiar relationships between people which branch into hierarchies of power. Often, his female characters are dominant, and dangerous curiosity propels each protagonist. Their viewpoints are seductive and will draw the reader deep into the off-kilter environments the author excels in painting. His descriptions are masterful, but his messaging will not surprise readers familiar with his style. Like the most consistent authors in world literature, his work bears the hallmarks of a singular philosophy, which can best be expressed indirectly, through fictive iterations within landscapes suited to mystery and dream.