Hieroglyphics: A Note Upon Ecstasy in Literature by Arthur Machen

Trade paperback format.  A slender volume, reprinting a scarce Machen essay originally published in 1902.

In Hieroglyphics, Machen propounds his theory that ‘fine literature’ (a phrase used throughout) contains the quality which he calls ‘Ecstasy’. Machen’s persona in the book, known simply as the Hermit, states that Ecstasy is ‘the infallible instrument, as I think, by which fine literature may be discerned from reading-matter, by which art may be known from artifice, and style from intelligent expression.’

Synopsis is a quote from Dr. Oliver Tearle, which can be read in its entirety here:

https://interestingliterature.com/2020/10/arthur-machen-hieroglyphics-review/