Book review of Patience Worth: A Psychic Mystery

by Casper S. Yost (Author)

Updated at: 05/03/2025

Casper S. Yost's "Patience Worth: A Psychic Mystery" explores the astonishing case of Pearl Curran, an otherwise unschooled woman who channeled the seemingly sophisticated writings of Patience Worth, a purported 17th-century English spirit. Yost meticulously documents the poetry, novels, and philosophical works produced through this automatic writing, presenting transcripts and evidence without imposing conclusions. The book sparked intense debate, attracting both believers and skeptics, and its enduring legacy lies in its contribution to parapsychology and its examination of consciousness, creativity, and the supernatural. By presenting the facts objectively, Yost leaves readers to ponder the mystery surrounding Pearl Curran, Patience Worth, and the origins of their extraordinary collaboration.

4.3 / 12 ratings

Review Patience Worth

Reading Casper Yost's Patience Worth: A Psychic Mystery was a truly fascinating experience. It's a book that sits comfortably in that intriguing space between rigorous investigation and captivating mystery, a quality I found incredibly appealing. Yost's approach is refreshingly objective; he lays out the evidence – the astonishing volume of poetry, novels, and philosophical texts channeled through Pearl Curran – without pushing a specific conclusion. He presents the transcripts, allowing the reader to engage directly with Patience Worth's surprisingly sophisticated writing, and to form their own opinion on the source of her pronouncements.

What struck me most was the sheer beauty and depth of Patience Worth's work, as highlighted by Yost. The excerpts included in the book are truly captivating; they possess a poetic quality and philosophical insight that transcends the apparent lack of formal training in Pearl Curran. Reading those passages, I could easily understand why this case has captivated both believers and skeptics for so long. It's a testament to Yost's skill that he manages to convey this profound impact without resorting to sensationalism. He presents the material clinically, letting the extraordinary nature of the writings speak for itself.

I also appreciated the historical context Yost provides. The book isn't just about the mysterious Patience Worth; it's about the burgeoning interest in spiritualism and parapsychology at the turn of the 20th century. It offers a glimpse into a fascinating period of intellectual and social ferment, where debates about consciousness and the nature of reality were particularly vibrant. This broader context adds another layer of richness to the narrative, making the central mystery even more compelling.

However, I do share the sentiment expressed in some reviews regarding accessibility. While Yost's writing is clear and meticulously researched, the sheer volume of textual evidence and the intricacies of the case might feel a bit dense at times. It's not a light, breezy read; it demands a degree of focused attention. This is not necessarily a criticism – the subject matter is complex – but something to keep in mind for readers seeking purely escapist literature. That said, the rewards of persevering are significant. The book offers a compelling and thought-provoking exploration of a truly unique event in history, and the glimpse into the literary output of Patience Worth is a treasure in itself. I only wish more of her vast body of work was readily available beyond the Washington University archives; it feels like a lost literary heritage.

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