Violet Mary Firth, known by her pen name Dion Fortune, was a prominent British occultist, ceremonial magician, and author active in the early 20th century. Born into a wealthy family, she developed an early interest in spiritualism and esotericism, influenced by the Theosophical Society and later by occult groups like the Alpha et Omega. Fortune claimed to receive teachings from spiritual entities known as Ascended Masters, which formed the basis for her own occult organization, the Fraternity of the Inner Light. She was a prolific writer, producing numerous articles and books on occult subjects, as well as seven novels that explored esoteric themes. Her work significantly influenced later occult and modern Pagan movements, including Wicca.

Fortune's life involved a transition from early interests in poetry and horticulture to studies in psychology and psychoanalysis, where she worked as a counsellor. She also contributed to the war effort during World War I by joining the Women's Land Army and pioneering soy milk products. Her spiritual journey led her to trance mediumship and the development of her unique magical system, which she disseminated through lectures, publications, and her founded organization. She believed in a coming Age of Aquarius and organized spiritual projects during World War II. Fortune died shortly after the war's end, leaving behind a lasting legacy in occultism.

Dion Fortune was instrumental in establishing the Fraternity of the Inner Light, an occult organization dedicated to promoting spiritual philosophies she believed were imparted by spiritual entities identified as Ascended Masters. This organization emerged from her dissatisfaction with existing esoteric societies, including the Theosophical Society, which she felt was not sufficiently focused on Christian mysticism. After splitting from the Theosophical Society, she formed the Community of the Inner Light, later renamed the Fraternity of the Inner Light. Alongside Charles Loveday, she developed operational centers in Glastonbury and London, published a magazine, and delivered public lectures to foster the growth of their society. The Fraternity continued to exist and evolve after her death, inspiring various related groups based on her teachings.

Fortune's engagement with esotericism deepened through her involvement with the Theosophical Society and subsequently with occult lodges led by figures like Theodore Moriarty and the Alpha et Omega organization. She practiced trance mediumship, claiming direct contact with spiritual guides such as Master Jesus and Master Rakoczi, and collaborated with others in channeling messages, notably resulting in 'The Cosmic Doctrine'. Her magical studies were grounded in the Hermetic Qabalah, influenced by her time with the Alpha et Omega, and she adopted the motto 'Deo, non Fortuna'. Fortune also explored psychological theories and psychotherapy, working as a counsellor before fully immersing herself in occult pursuits. Her experiences included alleged mental manipulation during her horticultural studies and a significant spiritual awakening during her time in the Women's Land Army.

As a prolific author, Dion Fortune penned a substantial body of work encompassing both non-fiction writings on occultism and seven novels that explored mystical and esoteric themes. Her literary output served as a primary vehicle for disseminating her philosophical and magical ideas. Her novels, in particular, gained recognition for their ability to convey complex occult concepts in an accessible narrative format, proving to be influential for subsequent generations of occult practitioners and modern Pagan communities, including the development of Wicca. Beyond her novels, she authored numerous articles and books detailing her unique interpretations of magic, spirituality, and the nature of consciousness.