Publisher, Audio Partners (1998)

The Classic Exploration of Altered Consciousness and Spirituality

"Whether you agree that the experiment was worth trying or feel that the author is knocking on doors that 'should' be left untouched, you are likely to admit that a challenge is forcibly put, that ideas are freshly and prodigally presented, and that even to try to answer Mr. Huxley honestly might well be a valuable experience in itself." --The San Francisco Chronicle

This exploratory essay about Huxley's experience with mescaline, the active principal of peyote, sparked a generation of drug experimentation, and it continues to challenge beliefs about the drugs condoned and forbidden in our society. "Administered in suitable doses," writes Huxley, "it changes the quality of consciousness more profoundly and yet is less toxic than any other substance in the pharmacologist's repertory."

Aldous Huxley (1894-1963) was born in England but resided in California from 1937 on. His best known works include: Brave New World, Chrome Yellow, Point Counter Point, and The Doors of Perception.

Rudolph Schirmer is a long-time friend of Aldous Huxley's widow and he collaborated with Huxley to write a musical. A musician and poet, Mr. Schirmer was the chairman of G. Schirmer Music Publishing for 30 years. He lives in New York City.