Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire.
Matthew 7:19
"If the believer understood the meaning of the saying 'the colour of water is the colour of the receptable', he would admit the validity of all beliefs and he would recognise God in every form and every object of faith."
Ibn 'Arabi, Fusūs al-Hikam
Over the years, the private works of Robert Cochrane, namely letters addressed to a few correspondents during the later years of his life, have received a great deal of scrutiny. Overlooked by many, and perhaps the more valuable contributions, are the essays that were written and published for a wide audience. Quite often, the words he actually addressed to us are forgotten against the tantalising backdrop of the myth built up around the individual.
Many people surmise many things from the letters, making inferences about the character of Cochrane himself. Whilst it is interesting and sometimes useful to understand the personality which was possessed of the genius, one wonders how relevant this is to the actual work. With some small degree of certainty, we can conclude that this was not the intent of the man who was careful enough to craft the words he put into print in order to inspire and provoke. The letters were never intended to be read by any other than the addressee!
Of course, the tragic circumstances of Cochrane's departure add to the myth surrounding the individual and the cult of the personality attracts those who are drawn to the glamour of intrigue, gossip and the (mis)fortunes of others. Perhaps it is a product of our time, or some macabre aspect of human nature that seeks to escape mundane lives via the excitement of others.
For what it's worth, Robert Cochrane's public writings are some of the most profound and fascinating works of insight into traditional craft, presented through an understanding of ancient wisdom deftly pursued through the myriad landscapes where she is known. Artfully, he left some clues, and made some statements, indicating to those who would pick up the thread something in the order of what they may find.
Above all, what Cochrane's published writings achieve is to make us think. Whether you find him provocative or inspirational, whether his essays resonate or not, he succeeds in making us think. If these texts do nothing more, they still achieve more profound results on the reader than much of what is written today on the craft, esotericism, the occult and mysteries.
With the emergence of a new letter addressed to poet Robert Graves, we might be excited to read something previously unread. However, do not be surprised if there is nothing revelatory in the letter, and do not be seduced into trying to fathom the depths of the man. The genius of Cochrane, in my opinion, far outweighs the man, whatever his foibles and quirks. Let's remember, too, that Cochrane was adept at adapting his style and conversation in order to convey his meaning best to whomsoever he addressed.
Many people draw the conclusion from the letters that Cochrane made it all up, arguing tirelessly over his sources for certain statements. No doubt, he was a clever man with substantial knowledge. However, he drew his inspiration from the Source, the eternal fountainhead of truth. In short, the legacy of the personality of Robert Cochrane the man is not how he should be known. Those writings he committed to publication are his intended words and thus by these fruit shall we know him.