Rodney Collin

by

Terje Tonne

Few people in the Gurdjieff Work have not read Rodney Collin’s seminal works, The Theory of Celestial Influence and The Theory of Eternal Life. They are regarded by some as fundamental Work texts books. Collin is a key figure in the history of esoteric thought and the Fourth Way tradition.

He was a dedicated pupil, perhaps the foremost pupil of Peter Ouspensky, and one of the few who went off to develop his own lineage after Ouspensky died. There can be little doubt that Collin’s unique contribution to the Gurdjieff Work has had a lasting impact. Nevertheless, little is known about his early life, the time he spent with Ouspensky, and his group work up to his mysterious death in Cuzco, Peru, at the young age of 47.

This ground-breaking 380 page biography by Terje Tonne provides a wealth of such information about his close relationship to Ouspensky and includes a detailed account of the events leading up to Ouspensky’s death. It proceeds to describe the years that followed: Collin’s  group activities in Mexico, his search for historical traces of The Work and his other writings.
Offering a rare and intimate portrait of Collin’s personal quest, remarkable intellect, and unwavering spiritual convictions, this meticulously researched book delves into the hidden world of a genuine seeker of the truth.

It is essential reading for anyone interested in the history of esoteric thought, the Fourth Way, and the extraordinary life of one of its most influential proponents. This engaging biography invites you to embark on a captivating exploration of Rodney Collin’s life and legacy.