Clypeus - 1985 - Vol 22 No 85

Magazine Overview

Title: CLYPEUS
Issue: 85
Volume: XXII
Date: March 1985

This issue of Clypeus, a magazine focused on history, geography, art, archaeology, literature, and folklore, with a particular interest in the Piedmont region of Italy and surrounding areas, dedicates its main feature to "L'archeologia spaziale figlia della fantascienza" (Space Archaeology, Daughter of Science Fiction). The magazine is directed and edited by Gianni V. Settimo and is published by the "Gruppo Clypeus," which aims to promote cultural and informational content rather than speculative profit. Membership in the group offers access to events, a library, and an archive.

L'archeologia spaziale figlia della fantascienza

The main article, authored by Mariella Bernacchi, delves into the origins and development of space archaeology as a genre. It posits that the genre stems from a fundamental question about the origin of the human species, diverging from Darwinian evolution. The article traces the evolution of this field from early religious and esoteric interpretations to the commercial exploitation of para-scientific theories, often intertwined with science fiction. Bernacchi distinguishes between two main currents: the humanistic approach, rooted in traditions and religious texts, and the para-scientific extrapolation based on enigmatic archaeological finds. The article lists prominent figures associated with both streams, including Solas Boncompagni, Walter Raymond Drake, Charroux, Guy Tarade, and Jimmy Guieu for the former, and Erich von Däniken and Peter Kolosimo for the latter. Gianni V. Settimo is also mentioned as a figure with a "Fortian" imprint.

Authors and Works in Pre-Astronautics and Science Fiction

The issue provides detailed profiles of several authors who have contributed significantly to the pre-astronautics and science fiction genres:

Jimmy Guieu

Jimmy Guieu (born 1926) is presented as a prolific writer whose work spans ufology, esotericism, and Fortian case studies. His science fiction novels, often published by "Fleuve Noir," explore themes of UFO encounters and abductions. The article mentions his early ufological essays from the 1950s, such as "Les soucoupes volantes viennent d'un autre monde" (1954), and his extensive French publication history. His notable works include "Nous les Martiens" (1953), which was later published in Italy as "I figli del Diluvio." His narratives often involve fugitives from destroyed planets and the interaction between terrestrial and alien civilizations.

Ugo Malaguti

Ugo Malaguti, writing under pseudonyms like Hugh Maylon, is recognized for his pre-astronautic fantasies, particularly those related to the giant statues of Easter Island ("Moai"). His stories often explore themes of ancient civilizations, "gods and demons," and cosmic conflicts. Malaguti also had a significant career as an editor, launching the "Galassia" magazine and later "Nova SF," and was instrumental in publishing various science fiction collections and encyclopedias in Italy.

Luigi Rapuzzi Johannis

Luigi Rapuzzi Johannis is described as a versatile author and a key figure in Italian science fiction, particularly in the pre-astronautic theme. He is noted for his "close encounter of the third kind" experience in Raveo (Udine) in 1947. His works are characterized by logical solutions, vivid settings, and a humanistic approach to reconstructing prehistoric worlds. Johannis's life included diverse experiences, from studying natural sciences to participating in World War II as a partisan and living in the USA. He founded the magazine "Galassia" and was a co-founder of "Gruppo Clypeus." His notable works include "C'era una volta un pianeta" and "Quand'ero aborigeno."

Charles Henneberg

Charles Henneberg (1899-1959) was drawn to the myth of Atlantis. His posthumously published work "An premiere ère spatiale" (1960), translated into Italian as "A.1. Era Spaziale," explores a future set against the backdrop of the lost continent. The narrative features a mutant named Nan de Nagis who can relive past lives and recognizes her destiny in a cosmic cycle.

Walter Raymond Drake

Walter Raymond Drake, born in 1913, is a polyglot researcher dedicated to universal pre-astronautic hypotheses. He has authored numerous novels and short stories in science fiction and esoteric genres. His unpublished English works are preserved in the "Gruppo Clypeus" archive. Drake's extensive bibliography includes titles like "Gods or Spacemen?" and "Gods and Spacemen in the ancient East," which explore the influence of extraterrestrials on ancient civilizations. He also contributes to English-language pre-astronautics publications.

Peter Kolosimo

Peter Kolosimo (1922-1980s) is celebrated as a prominent popularizer of space archaeology in Italy. His work, often infused with imaginative flights, draws from humanistic and traditional sources, as well as his knowledge of Slavic languages. Kolosimo's approach, influenced by a Marxist materialist-rationalist perspective, reinterpreted various sources to create a series of influential volumes that sparked a literary trend in the 1960s and 1970s. His notable works include "Il Pianeta Sconosciuto" and "Astronavi sulla preistoria."

Other Articles and Features

"Dossier Extraterrestri"

This informative piece by Gilda Musa and Inisero Cremaschi discusses the UFO flap of 1978. It centers on the discovery of a "Great Diamond" left by an advanced alien civilization in Val Camonica, which is believed to have stimulated human evolution. The article highlights the indecipherable message of the "Diamond" and the eventual departure of the alien spacecraft.

"Il libro di Dzyan" and "Gli infiniti ritorni"

The article references the esoteric Eastern text "Il libro di Dzyan" and its interpretation in the context of space archaeology. Maria De Barba's novel "Gli infiniti ritorni" is mentioned, which draws inspiration from Vedic texts and explores cyclical reincarnations of "gods" and their battles against a "Great Technologist."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the intersection of science fiction, archaeology, mythology, and ufology. The magazine champions the genre of "space archaeology" as a means to explore alternative theories of human origins and ancient civilizations, often drawing from esoteric and historical texts. The editorial stance, as indicated by the publisher's statement, is to provide cultural and informational content, emphasizing objectivity and critical analysis, as exemplified by the magazine's long-standing commitment to demythologizing unsupported claims. The publication also serves as a platform for Italian authors in the science fiction and pre-astronautics fields, fostering a community through the "Gruppo Clypeus."

This issue of "Clypeus" focuses on the intersection of space archaeology and science fiction, with a particular emphasis on European contributions and publications. The magazine explores the works of prominent authors in the field, discusses the history and evolution of science fiction, and provides a guide to fan communities and publications.

Space Archaeology and Key Authors

The issue highlights the significant influence of Erik von Däniken, whose works on space archaeology have garnered considerable popular success. His books, such as "Noi extraterrestri" and "Il seme dell'universo," are discussed, along with his later works like "11 agosto 3314 A.C." which examines the Maya calendar. The magazine also mentions other authors who have contributed to this genre, including Kolosimo, who published several books on mysteries of the universe and even directed a magazine called "Pikappa." Walter Ernsting is presented as a notable figure in German science fiction, with his works often touching upon archeo-astronomical themes. His pseudonym Darlton Clark is also mentioned for a series of novels inspired by astronaut-god myths.

The article also delves into the Soviet contribution to pre-astronautic literature, specifically mentioning Alexei Tolstoj's 1923 novel "Aelita," which depicted prehistoric visits by Martians to Earth. The concept of "sky children" influencing terrestrial destinies is explored, linking it to esoteric circles in Tsarist Russia and their continuation in the Soviet state.

Science Fiction in Europe and Beyond

The magazine provides an overview of science fiction in various European countries. In Germany, authors like Paul Alfred Müller (Lok Myler) and Walther Kiaulhen are noted for their early contributions. The issue touches upon the limited pre-astronautic science fiction in America, contrasting it with the more prolific Soviet output.

It discusses the role of scientists and writers like Kazantzev and Efremov in popularizing science fiction in the Soviet Union. Modest Agrest's archaeological interpretations, such as the nuclear destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah, and Alexandr Abramov's efforts to catalog pre-astronautic data are also mentioned. Zecharia Zitchin's hypothesis about a planetary catastrophe involving twelve planets is presented, referencing Immanuel Velikovsky's work.

Alexander Kazantzev's speculation about the 1908 Tunguska meteorite being an atomic-powered alien spacecraft is highlighted, along with his interest in ufology. The issue notes the Academy of Sciences' interest in Kazantzev's studies, leading to official expeditions to Tunguska.

Ivan Efremov, a paleontologist, is recognized for his stories like "Navi di Stelle" (Starships), which explore the discovery of humanoid skeletons from millions of years ago, suggesting extraterrestrial visitation. His other works, "La nebulosa di Andromeda" and "Il cuore del Serpente," are mentioned for their themes of future cosmic contact.

Fandom and Publications

The latter part of the magazine shifts focus to the science fiction fan community, or "fandom." It explains how clubs and fanzines serve as aggregation centers for enthusiasts, fostering friendship and the exchange of ideas. The "Space Opera Club" in Turin is mentioned as an example of such an initiative.

The article introduces "PULP," a magazine that aims to revive the spirit of colorful American popular magazines from the 1930s. It notes that "PULP" is the only amateur magazine that pays its contributors. Information on subscriptions and related clubs like "Club di Fantascienza Padova" and "Associazione Nazionale Amatori Science Fiction (A.N.A.S.F.)" is provided.

Several fanzines and magazines are listed, including "The dark side," "Scienza e fantasia," "City," "Un'Ala," "The time machine" (TTM), "SF...ERE," and "L'altroquando." The issue also mentions "Intercom," a prolific fanzine from Genoa known for its solid cultural content and timely reporting on new releases.

"Star Wars" Fandom

A dedicated section discusses the "Star Wars" fandom, detailing the emergence of clubs in America and Europe dedicated to the film trilogy. It mentions the "Official Star Wars Fan Club" and its publication "Bantha Tracks." Other clubs, like the "Rogue's Gallery Club" focused on Harrison Ford, and "On the Mark," which focuses on Mark Hamill, are also described. The Swedish club "Tatooine" and its connection to the Dutch fanzine "Shards of Babel" are noted. In Italy, Sig.ra Ketty De Chirico is identified as the representative for the Official Star Wars Club.

Other Publications and Initiatives

The magazine "etnie," focused on minority cultures, is presented with its subscription details. Information is provided on how to order back issues and a special LP record. The "Gutenberg/Etnie" administration in Milan is listed for inquiries.

Finally, a section titled "NOI DEPUTATI DEL COLLEGIO PRINCIPALE DEI FRATELLI DEI ROSA + CROCE" appears, followed by a statement that "CLYPEUS continua." This suggests a connection or continuation of the publication's themes or spirit.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of "Clypeus" are space archaeology, science fiction, ufology, and the broader exploration of mysteries and the unknown. The editorial stance appears to be one of documenting and disseminating information about these subjects, particularly focusing on European contributions and the burgeoning fan community. While acknowledging the past fervor for space archaeology, the magazine suggests a shift towards a more critical and analytical approach, as indicated by the quote: "Si guarda all'ipotesi pre-astronautica con minor fervore emotivo e più attento spirito critico."