Simon Iff
An older occult thinker whose humor, skepticism, and detective-like intelligence give the novel a steadier point of view.
To understand what the factions are actually doing, separate disciplined will from vanity, and keep the conflict from overwhelming clear judgment.
The book
At a glance
- Occult thinker and detective-like observer
- Skepticism, humor, and disciplined attention
- A recurring character in Crowley’s fiction
Who they are in the book
Spoiler-freeSimon Iff is calmer than many of the believers and schemers around him. He can take occult questions seriously without surrendering judgment or humor.
Crowley also uses Iff in other fiction as an occult detective. Here, observation matters as much as magical power.
How the book draws them
- Mature gentlemanAge and composure distinguish him from the younger experimenters.
- Ordinary suitHe is not dressed in theatrical wizard robes.
- Amused intelligent eyesHumor and attention work together.
- Calm expressionHe observes before reacting.
- Close bustThe character portrait remains free of occult props.
- Muted olive accentThe restrained color supports his grounded intelligence.
Iff remains one of the book’s stabilizing intelligences as the experiment and the wider war reach their conclusions.
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