The mere mention of Freemasonry in any conversation immediately conjures up a flood of images: grand conspiracies, secret schemes woven by mysterious men dwelling in dark cellars, plotting to control nations and peoples. At other times, talk of it provokes ridicule and mockery, as if it were nothing more than one of those outlandish "conspiracy theories" that exist only in the minds of their believers.

Yet, in truth, Freemasonry earned its notorious reputation largely because it has surrounded its activities with a dense veil of secrecy and obscurity-making liberal use of strange symbols and rituals, not to mention the complex initiation trials its members must undergo. All of this makes it hard to believe that the central aim of its lodges is simply to spread world peace and foster brotherhood among humankind.

In any case, let us set aside (at least partially) our own convictions about Freemasonry, and, through this book, listen to the voice of one of its enthusiasts as he recounts some of its history and traditions.