The Tables of the Law; & The Adoration of the Magi

"The Tables of the Law; & The Adoration of the Magi" by W. B. Yeats is a collection of two prose pieces that delve into themes of spirituality and mysticism, likely crafted in the early 20th century. The book examines the nature of desire, the intersection of art and religion, and the complexities of human experience against the backdrop of philosophical and theological inquiry. The first piece, "The Tables of the Law," revolves around a conversation between two men, one being Aherne, who has a deep interest in mystical theology and the nature of existence. Aherne reveals his possession of a rare and powerful text attributed to Joachim of Flora, focusing on the evolution of spiritual kingdoms and proposing a heretical understanding of divine law that challenges conventional beliefs. The second piece, "The Adoration of the Magi," features three old men who journey from a western Irish island to Paris in search of wisdom and the secret names of the gods. Their encounter with a dying woman leads to a mystical revelation about the immortals and the return of forgotten truths. Through rich imagery and philosophical dialogue, Yeats intertwines elements of folklore, spiritual quest, and the quest for artistic expression.