William Levy, American-Dutch journalist, author, and poet

William Levy: The Enigmatic "Talmudic Wizard of Amsterdam" and Counter-Culture Icon

William Levy (January 10, 1939 – April 22, 2019), affectionately known as the "Talmudic Wizard of Amsterdam," was a profoundly influential American writer, editor, and a celebrated former radio personality. His career spanned decades, leaving an indelible mark on the counter-culture literary and media landscapes, particularly from his adopted home in Amsterdam. Levy was the prolific author behind groundbreaking works such as The Virgin Sperm Dancer, Wet Dreams, Certain Radio Speeches of Ezra Pound, and Natural Jewboy, each challenging conventions and exploring the fringes of society and personal identity.

An American Journey to European Avant-Garde

Before his pivotal move from the United States in the autumn of 1966, embarking on the R.M.S Queen Mary – a journey emblematic of many counter-cultural figures seeking new intellectual and artistic freedoms abroad – Mr. Levy established a strong academic foundation. He pursued his education at prestigious institutions, including the University of Maryland and Temple University. Demonstrating his early commitment to the literary world, he also shared his knowledge and passion as an instructor in the literature department at Shippensburg State College in Pennsylvania. This early grounding in American academia provided a stark contrast to the radical, experimental paths he would forge in Europe.

Pioneering the Underground Press and Beyond

The 1960s and 1970s saw William Levy emerge as a central figure in the burgeoning European underground press movement. He was the visionary founder and chief-editor of numerous influential magazines that defined the era's rebellious spirit:

His editorial influence extended well beyond the underground. Later, Mr. Levy served as the discerning European Editor for prominent American glossy magazines, including the cannabis culture-focused High Times and the iconic men's lifestyle and entertainment publication Penthouse magazine. Simultaneously, he remained deeply rooted in the Amsterdam independent scene, serving as an associate editor for local zines such as Het Gewicht, Ins & Outs, La Linea, and Atom Club. This dual role underscored his ability to navigate and influence both mainstream and avant-garde media landscapes.

A Versatile Contributor and Performer

William Levy's literary contributions were diverse and far-reaching. He was a regular contributor to Andrei Codrescu's renowned literary journal Exquisite Corpse, known for its eclectic and often provocative content, as well as Libido, an acclaimed erotic literary journal. Beyond his editorial and writing roles, Levy delved into more esoteric projects, publishing his unique Transactions of the Invisible Language Society series, which explored unconventional linguistic and philosophical ideas. His meditation play, Europe in Flames, demonstrated his versatility, earning a featured spot at the prestigious Festival of New Radio in New York, highlighting his innovative approach to sound and narrative.

Accolades and His Alter-Ego, Dr. Doo Wop

In recognition of his pioneering and often controversial writing, Mr. Levy was honored in 1998 with the highly unconventional "Erotic Oscar" for writing at London's notorious Sex Maniac's Ball. This award cemented his reputation as a fearless explorer of human sexuality and expression.

For two decades, until his retirement from radio, Mr. Levy captivated Amsterdam's airwaves under the guise of his beloved alter-ego, "Dr. Doo Wop." Every week, listeners could tune in to hear Dr. Doo Wop spinning "groovy music," cultivating a dedicated following and solidifying Levy's place as a cultural fixture in Amsterdam, renowned for his eclectic tastes and engaging personality.

A Life in Amsterdam: Legacy and Literary Companionship

William Levy resided in the vibrant, free-spirited city of Amsterdam until his passing on April 22, 2019, following a long illness. He shared his life with his wife, Susan Janssen, an accomplished literary translator. Susan Janssen herself contributed significantly to the literary world, bringing to English audiences many works of the iconic American writer Charles Bukowski, known for his gritty realism, and a celebrated translation of F. Scott Fitzgerald's quintessential American novel, The Great Gatsby. Their shared passion for literature and their life in Amsterdam underscored a legacy of intellectual curiosity, artistic freedom, and a profound engagement with the counter-cultural movements that defined much of the late 20th century.

Frequently Asked Questions About William Levy

Who was William Levy?
William Levy (1939-2019) was an American writer, editor, and radio personality, widely known as the "Talmudic Wizard of Amsterdam." He was a significant figure in the counter-culture movement, particularly through his involvement with underground publications and his provocative literary works.
What is William Levy known for?
Levy is best known for his boundary-pushing books like The Virgin Sperm Dancer and Wet Dreams, his pivotal role as editor of influential underground magazines such as International Times and Suck, and his long-running radio show in Amsterdam as "Dr. Doo Wop."
What was the significance of Suck, The First European Sex Paper?
Suck, co-founded by Levy, was a highly controversial and influential publication launched in 1969. It was explicit in its content and played a key role in the sexual liberation movement, openly challenging censorship and advocating for freedom of sexual expression in Europe.
Did William Levy receive any awards for his writing?
Yes, in 1998, William Levy was awarded the "Erotic Oscar" for his writing at the Sex Maniac's Ball in London, recognizing his unique and often transgressive contributions to literature.
What was "Dr. Doo Wop"?
"Dr. Doo Wop" was William Levy's radio alter-ego. For 20 years, he hosted a popular weekly radio show on Amsterdam's airwaves, spinning "groovy music" and becoming a cherished voice in the city's cultural scene until his retirement from radio.