Ancient Skills and Wisdom Review - No 01

Magazine Overview

Title: ANCIENT SKILLS AND WISDOM REVIEW
Issue: No. 1
Date: Circa 1980 (implied by content and pricing)
Publisher/Editor: Pau Screeton
Country: England
Price: 50p per issue or £2 annually

This inaugural issue of the "Ancient Skills and Wisdom Review" (ASWR) is presented as a quarterly publication dedicated to reviewing books and magazines within the broad scope of ancient skills and wisdom. The editor, Pau Screeton, states his intention to cover subjects such as the occult, parapsychology, prehistory (including leys and megalithic monuments), folklore, UFOs, geomancy, New Age thought, and 'Man'. The magazine aims to include profiles of writers and researchers but will not accommodate articles on topics already covered in the reviewed books.

LEAD-IN: Editor's Introduction

Pau Screeton introduces the first issue, explaining that the magazine has been in planning for eight months. He emphasizes that ASWR is a review publication and not a platform for original articles on the subjects covered. The delay in publication was deliberate, timed to coincide with the paperback release of his own book, "Quicksilver Heritage." He openly admits to using the magazine to promote his book, including extracts from reviews.

Review: Quicksilver Heritage

The issue prominently features reviews of Paul Screeton's book, "Quicksilver Heritage: The Mystic Leys: Their Legacy of Ancient Wisdom." The reviews highlight the book's exploration of comparative religion, occultism, mysticism, and magic, positioning it as a response to a perceived spiritual starvation in a materialistic world. Reviewers praise the book for its comprehensive coverage of leys and related subjects, its clear writing, and its extensive bibliography. Alan Hull Walton of "Books & Bookmen" notes its recognition during a BBC broadcast and calls it a guide for those seeking lost knowledge. G.S.D.D. from "Quest" compares it favorably to Alfred Watkins' work and "The Old Straight Track."

Further reviews from "The Ley Hunter" and "Science of Thought Review" (by John Michell) echo these sentiments. Michell describes Screeton as well-qualified to edit such a publication, given his previous work with "The Ley Hunter." He notes Screeton's "inclusionist" approach, similar to Charles Fort, which prioritizes recording over evaluation. The book is seen as a vast compendium covering ancient sites, legends, myths, astrology, UFOs, and more, presented in short, introductory chapters. Michell also commends the book's exploration of the metaphysical, linking it to ancient dreams and cosmic consciousness.

Anthony Roberts of "The Ley Hunter" states the book was worth the two-year wait. Frank Dineen of "Essex Dowser" finds it a work of scholarship, appreciating its inclusion of even seemingly dubious material. M.W. from "The Northern Echo" highlights its research into speculative studies and its coverage of tracing leys. "Elysian" calls it a valuable addition to a ley seeker's library, while D.V. from "Prediction" suggests it may bring the subject of prehistoric trackways to a wider audience.

"Torc" recommends the book for anyone interested in leys, landscape zodiacs, or practical occultism. G.R. Phillips of "The Ley Hunter" sees it as offering hope to the average person. A personal letter from Phillips praises Screeton's original thought and keen judgment, particularly on the "Aquarian Age" section.

Other Reviews and Content

"The Silbury Treasure" by Michael Dames: Reviewed by Pau Screeton, this book is described as a thorough analysis of the Silbury monument, identifying it as an expression of the Great Goddess cult. The review contrasts Dames's theory with the dismissive view of Professor Glyn Daniel. Screeton expresses a personal suspicion that Dames is correct, recounting a vivid dream related to Silbury.

"The Ley Hunter" Magazine: The review notes that under new editor Paul Devereux, the magazine maintains its professional printing and content, featuring articles on various ley-related topics, folklore, and historical figures. Issues 72, 73, and 74 are summarized, highlighting contributions from Guy Ragland Phillips, Mollie Carey, Steve Moore, Tom Graves, Jimmy Goddard, Michael de Styrcea, John Michell, and Paul Screeton himself.

"Info Journal": This publication from The International Fortean Organization is described as a quarterly covering topics like serpent/dragon motifs, UFOs, ancient carved stones, and paranormal phenomena.

"Ancient Hill Figures of England" by Nigel Pennick: This book is praised for its detailed information and illustrations of ancient hill figures in Britain. While noted as conventional, it is recommended for those interested in the subject.

"Fortean Times": Issue 17 is highlighted for its cover illustration and articles on various Fortean topics, including birdmen and paranormal phenomena.

"W.H. Black: Pioneer Geomantic Researcher": This paper collects the works of William Henry Black, focusing on his theories about geomantic lattices formed by ancient stones and the geomantic purposes of borough and county boundaries.

"ARC AEOLOGICAL SITES OF BRITAIN" by Peter Clayton: This book is presented as a general public guide to key archaeological sites, featuring numerous illustrations. The review notes its conventional approach and a potential bias towards Roman sites, suggesting it be used in conjunction with John Wilcock's "An Occult Guide to Ancient Britain."

"TH FOLKLORE OF THE LAKE DISTRICT" by Marjorie Rowling: This book is described as a comprehensive survey of supernatural lore related to megalithic monuments in Cumbria. The reviewer commends its scholarly approach and diligent cross-checking of sources.

"Tao Teh King" by Aleister Crowley: Reviewed by Frank Dineen, this is presented as Crowley's interpretation of the Chinese classic. The review notes its depth, requiring knowledge of Kabbalah and mysticism, and praises Crowley's improvements on James Legge's translation. It is seen as a serious work of spiritual understanding, distinct from Crowley's more magickal writings.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The dominant themes in this issue are ancient skills, wisdom, and esoteric knowledge, with a particular focus on ley lines and their associated phenomena. The editorial stance, as expressed by Pau Screeton, is one of open inquiry and a desire to explore subjects often dismissed by mainstream academia. There is a clear emphasis on reviewing existing literature in these fields, promoting a holistic approach that integrates physical, metaphysical, and spiritual aspects. The magazine appears to champion the work of individuals like Alfred Watkins and John Michell, who have explored these subjects, and provides a platform for diverse opinions within the ufology, occult, and archaeological communities.

This issue of Undercurrents, dated April-May 1976, is dedicated to "BEST BOOKS OF 1976" and focuses on publications related to earth mysteries, alternative technology, and fringe science. The cover features the title "UNDER CURRENTS" with the subtitle "EVERYBODY'S READING" and "JUST PUBLISHED", accompanied by an illustration of a windmill and the slogan "POWER TO THE PEOPLE". The issue includes articles on nuclear power alternatives, biodynamic gardening, radical technology, and whole food co-ops, alongside news, reviews, and letters.

Book Reviews

The core of this issue comprises reviews of books published in 1976, contributed by various individuals identified as "earth mysteries 'luminaries'".

"The Sirius Mystery" by Robert K.G. Temple

Reviewed by Anthony Roberts, this book is hailed as "the best study of extraterrestrial contact in the far past". Roberts praises the author, a young American scholar, for breaking from orthodox dogma to explore the thesis that beings from the Sirius system contacted ancient Sumeria around 4,000 B.C. The book allegedly details how this contact influenced Egyptian culture and the rituals of the West African Dogon people, who possessed knowledge of the invisible companion star, Sirius B. The review emphasizes the book's fusion of myth and science, its analysis of ancient mythic data, and its exploration of 'Oracle Centres' laid out with geodetic precision. Roberts declares it "undoubtedly the book of the year."

"Megalithic Software" by Prof. Lyle B. Boršt and Barbara Borst

This book, the first in a projected series, aims to quantify and explain prehistoric megalithic technology, focusing initially on the British Isles. Prof. Borst, a physicist and astronomer, is noted for his research into astroarchaeology, measuring prehistoric monuments to find Pythagorean geometry and astronomical knowledge embedded in their design. The review suggests he traces the awareness of these ancient skills through various cultures, correlating geometry and astronomy with mythological memory. It is described as a "religious textbook" couched in mathematical and scientific symbolism, considered difficult, controversial, and rewarding, and not for beginners. The reviewer recommends "The Secret Country" by Janet & Colin Bord as a more accessible option.

"Earth Magic" by Francis Hitching

Reviewed by Anthony Roberts, this book is characterized as a brave attempt to bridge orthodox archaeology and mystical speculation. Hitching, a media man, is noted for his skeptical yet almost blind position regarding the ethos behind jargon. The review acknowledges Hitching's summation of the current state of flux in archaeology and his analysis of "speculative" archaeologists and paranormal studies. Passages on megalithic stones and their powers are found interesting, despite an almost fanatical bias towards "scientific recognition". The book's emphasis on pendulum dowsing is described as mechanistic. Hitching's "earth magic" is seen as stemming from the laboratory rather than the "eternal spirit of Creation". While a flawed work, its import is seen as a bridge between orthodox and unorthodox world history systems. The reviewer also mentions that the book's cut-away illustrations of leys and Hitching's notes on long-distance alignments are interesting.

"THE TAO OF PHYSICS" by Fritjof Capra

Reviewed by Bob Rickard, this book provides an overview of high-energy physics, drawing parallels with Greek philosophy and the mysticism of India and China. Rickard notes that ancients did not need modern technology to gain insight into nature, time, and space, and that Capra's work unites science and mysticism, serving as a primer for modern physics and oriented religion.

"The Secret Country" by Janey & Colin Bord

Also reviewed by Bob Rickard, this book is described as providing "a real feast of data" compiled from folklore sources about mysterious stones in landscapes. These stones are said to heal, destroy, grow, guard treasures, move, fly, and become heavy or light, and are associated with giants, devils, fairies, UFOs, dragons, and phantom animals. The book is illustrated with Colin Bord's photos.

"The Sirius Mystery" by Robert Temple

Bob Rickard also recommends this book as "the most thought-provoking" and a "staggering tour-de-force". He reiterates that it investigates evidence that Earth was visited by beings from the Sirius system, noting the Dogon tribe's knowledge of Sirius's dark companion, discovered by the West in 1862.

"Illuminatus" by Robert Shea and Robert Anton Wilson

Rickard recommends this trilogy of novels as a lighter read, satirizing political, mystical, and pseudo-scientific preoccupations. He describes it as a "damned good read" with insight, sex, and humor, written in a mixture of detective story, F&SF, occult/horror, and drug-rap styles.

"ST. JOSEPH OF ARIMATHEA AT GLASTONBURY" by Lionel Smithett Lewis

Reviewed by Janet Roberts, this book is considered a "must" for those interested in the Somerset area. It presents evidence that Joseph of Arimathea visited Britain and brought Jesus with him, detailing ancient traditions and folk myths connected to the area. It is described as a scholarly work.

"THE SILBURY TREASURE" by Michael Dames

Roberts reviews this book, which highlights a "huge terrestrial effigy of a pregnant woman" in the Wiltshire countryside (Silbury Hill). The review notes the connection between geomantic earth currents, female fertilizing influence, and the important role of women in ancient religious activities. Roberts finds it a shame that other geomantic effigies and terrestrial zodiacs were not mentioned, which could have added verisimilitude. The book is considered well-researched from astronomical and folklore/historic perspectives and a better-than-average book, despite a critical review in "The Times".

"THE SECRET COUNTRY" by Janet and Colin Bord

Roberts reviews this book, noting it is considered an improvement on "Mysterious Britain". It is described as nicely produced with pictures and folktales but lacking in geomantic detail. The reviewer expresses a desire for a "meatier book" and finds it tantalizing, but ultimately recommends it as worth buying, especially in paperback, while cautioning the Bords about future competition.

Other Publications

Journal of Geomancy, Vol.1, No. 2

This issue includes articles on mounds and mark stones, leys traced by dowsing, "Stanley Zodiac Revelation", and "Antoni Gaudi - Catalan Geomantic Architect", along with news and letters. It is well illustrated.

Fortean Times, No. 18

This bi-monthly publication features correlated Fortean data, religious images, the Great Pyramid, lions (or paraphysical big cats), and book reviews. It is described as having a tidy format and being lively.

The Sun

This daily newspaper is noted for its interest in human bodies rather than planetary bodies, and is compared to "Titbits, Reveille" with horse racing pages recommended.

"Radical Technology" Book Review

Page 5 features a review of the book "Radical Technology: Food and Shelter, Tools and Materials, Energy and Communications, Autonomy and Community", edited by Godfrey Boyle and Peter Harper. This large-format, illustrated collection of original articles concerns the reorganization of technology along more humane, rational, and ecologically sound lines. The book covers both 'hardware' (machines and technical methods) and 'software' (social and political structures, human relationships, and environmental feelings). The articles range from detailed 'recipes' to general accounts of alternative methods, critiques of current practices, and proposals for reorganization. It is divided into seven sections: Food, Energy, Shelter, Autonomy, Materials, Communication, and Other Perspectives. Over forty articles are included, covering topics such as fish culture, water supply, biological energy sources, windmills, self-help housing, autonomous houses, scrap yards, alternative radio networks, and utopian communities. The book also includes interviews with prominent practitioners and theorists of Radical Technology, such as John Todd, Robert Jungk, the Street Farmers, Peter van Dresser, and Sietz Leefland. Visionary drawings by Clifford Harper are included, depicting communalized urban garden layouts, workshops, community media centers, and autonomous housing estates. The book concludes with a directory of literature and organizations in Radical Technology. The review notes the book's ISBNs and publication details.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Undercurrents revolve around "earth mysteries," which encompass ancient civilizations, megalithic sites, geomancy, and mythology, often with a focus on potential extraterrestrial influences. Alongside this, there is a strong emphasis on "alternative technology" and "radical technology," advocating for more humane, rational, and ecologically sound approaches to living and organizing society. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into unconventional ideas, bridging the gap between orthodox and unorthodox systems of knowledge, and providing practical information for those interested in these subjects. The magazine actively promotes books that challenge established paradigms and explore the hidden aspects of history, science, and human potential.