Introduction

Abstract

Fascination is a modern drug. It can tantalise and torment our imagination. It is at once intimately familiar and deeply mysterious. We recognise fascination instinctively but it defies definition and eludes understanding. As a result, the term elicits an irresistible attraction:

Fascination! The very word itself almost fascinates, attracts. See it where we will, in book, pamphlet, or newspaper, it claims our attention. Do we hear it in lecture, speech or sermon, we listen more earnestly, eager to hear what is to follow.¹