Anybody with an interest in warped ontology and cultural high strangeness will at some point have been affected by the writings of Robert Anton Wilson.

His book <em>Cosmic Trigger</em> laid the bassline for an entire stratum of late 20th century Western magical thought, while the <em>Illuminatus!</em> trilogy, co-written with Robert Shea, seeded the gonzo esoterica of the Subgenius Foundation and myriad other groups. His influence shines like starlight through an entire generation.

Now RAW needs help: (via Boing Boing and Douglas Rushkoff's <a href="http://www.rushkoff.com/2006/10/robert-anton-wilson-needs-our-help.php">blog</a>) "from Robert's friend, Denis Berry: Robert's writing has enlightened-educated many and if you can please commit to help pay a portion of his expenses until his passing which sadly won't be that long. Monthly contributions of $50.00 or more will be greatly appreciated. All monies will go directly to Robert and can be sent to his PayPal address olgaceline@gmail.com. You can also send a check to RAW c/o Futique Trust, P.O. Box 3561, Santa Cruz, Ca 95063."

At the very least, anyone who's reading this and hasn't read <em>Cosmic Trigger</em> should order a copy direct from <a href="http://www.rawilson.com/goodies.shtml">RAW's site</a>.