Welcome!

     Welcome to The Man of Desire! The purpose of this blog is essentially to increase appreciation for the thought, spirituality, and writings of that group of 18th and 19th century French theosophers who can broadly be called "Martinist," through new and original translations of their writings into English, and through original and classic art that suggests an appropriate ambiance for these writings. First among these writers, in our view, is Louis Claude de Saint-Martin, "The Unknown Philosopher" (1743-1803), whose many written works abound with inestimable treasures of living wisdom, but who has unfortunately been little translated hitherto into English. Other writers in this perennially fresh current of theosophic arcana include Saint-Martin's "first master," Martines de Pasqually, who established the theurgic order of "Elect Priests" (Elus Coens) in 18th century France, and Jean Baptiste Willermoz, Pasqually's great disciple, through whose Rectified Scottish Rite the Elus Coen doctrine of Reintegration was preserved in an initiatic Masonic form.

     It is hoped, God willing, that over time we shall be able to publish many "classical" Martinist texts which have never previously appeared in English, for the benefit of English-speaking Martinists and other Christian (and non-Christian) esoterists. It is our wish that, with all our shortcomings and limitations, this website will convey something of the fragrance of Saint-Martin's exalted spirituality, and serve as a living testimony to his powerful legacy.

     We are not affiliated with any institutional Martinist organization, but rather draw our inspiration from the spirit which animates the original texts.