Earth - No 17 - 1990

Magazine Overview

Title: EARTH
Issue: No. 17
Date: March, 1990
Publisher: Northern Arts Publishing (for Yorkshire Earth Mysteries Group)
Editor: Paul Bennett

This issue of EARTH magazine, subtitled 'A JOURNAL OF CONSCIOUSNESS, FORTEAN & EARTH MYSTERIES, etc.', delves into the complex interplay between consciousness, paranormal phenomena, and ancient earth mysteries. The cover art, by Andy Tyson, features runes, hooded figures, and a stone circle, with the text "EARTH WORKS RUNE MAGIC LEYLINES • STANDING STONES • EARTH ENERGY" setting a mystical tone.

Editorial and Introduction

Editor Paul Bennett opens with an editorial lamenting the commercialization of esoteric and paranormal studies, particularly the influx of 'crap' from USA-based celebrities. He criticizes the financial gain driving many New Age and paranormal pursuits, contrasting it with the genuine need for funding for research. He also expresses concern about the quality of lectures and workshops, suggesting that many are fed 'terrible crap' to the public, often dictated by 'believers' rather than academics.

The 'Oz Factor' and Altered States of Consciousness (ASCs)

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to exploring the 'Oz Factor,' a term coined by Jenny Randles. This phenomenon describes a subjective, altered state of consciousness (ASC) that can occur during various experiences, including UFO sightings (termed EL phenomena). The article posits that these states are not exclusive to UFOs but can be triggered by a wide range of stimuli, such as intense emotions, music, films, meditation, and even mundane activities. The author, writing as 'A Comment from the Wizard,' details two cases: one involving teenagers near Shipley who experienced a 'higher state of awareness' after witnessing a cuboid light, and another with the Pickfords of Baildon who reported a profound quietness and a feeling of being 'displaced' while observing a gliding light.

The article explains that ASCs involve shifts in emotive awareness and can manifest as profound mystical experiences, shamanic journeys, or even everyday emotions like love and hatred. Subtle electrochemical brain activity, influenced by substances like pinoline and adrenaline, is discussed as a potential physiological basis for these states. The role of the pineal gland, often referred to as the 'Third Eye,' is highlighted for its production of neurochemicals that influence consciousness and dreams.

The 'Oz Factor' is described as a psychocosm where the unconscious parades its wares, leading to experiential ventures that can reveal profound insights. It is linked to concepts like 'Illumination,' 'intensity experience,' and 'cosmic consciousness,' with parallels drawn to the work of mystics and psychologists like Deikman and Laski. The article emphasizes that while the experience may be unique to the individual, the underlying phenomenon is consistent across different contexts, whether religious, mystical, or ufological.

The Role of Light and Electromagnetic Frequencies

The magazine explores the connection between light, particularly EL phenomena, and the Oz Factor. It suggests that light plays a crucial role in triggering these altered states, influencing the pineal gland's production of neurochemicals. The article also touches upon the influence of natural electromagnetic radiations from the Earth, citing research on the Transcutaneous Electro-Neural Stimulator and its ability to induce 'Eureka experiences.' The idea that ELF and VLF waves might resonate with human brain frequencies, potentially causing psychological shifts, is presented.

Ancient Sites and Earth Mysteries

Isle of Man

John Hall contributes a two-part article on the Earth Mysteries of the Isle of Man. He details his visits to several ancient sites, including King Orry's Grave, a large megalithic tomb; the Spiral Stone, a Bronze Age boulder with a spiral carving; and Cashtal yn Ard, a Neolithic period chambered cairn. Hall also visits St. Maughold's Church, a significant early Christian site with a graveyard containing Celtic and Norse crosses, and St. Maughold's Well, known for its medicinal properties and associated folklore.

The article notes the impact of agriculture on Manx monoliths and the historical significance of the island's Celtic and Viking heritage. It discusses the 'keeills' (early Christian churches) and the Tynwald, one of the oldest parliaments. Hall also mentions the 'Glashtin' or 'Cabyll-Ushtey,' a Manx water-horse folklore figure.

Rock Art and Megaliths

The issue features an article on the Stronach Ridge Rock Carvings of Brodick, Arran, detailing cup and ring markings interpreted as Goddess portraits. It references findings from the Proceedings of the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland, describing various designs and their potential significance. The article also touches upon prehistoric rock art found in Yorkshire and other regions.

Another section discusses the discovery of cup and ring stones (CRs) in Buck Woods, Bradford, adjacent to ancient walling and earthworks. The author notes the presence of overgrown cairns in the area, suggesting a possible unrecognized prehistoric settlement. The article also mentions the etymology of 'Hanging Stones' in Ilkley, linking it to the Old English word 'hangra' meaning 'wood on a steep slope.'

Music for Inner Space

This section reviews several contemporary music releases aimed at inducing altered states of consciousness and relaxation. Tapes and CDs from New World Recordings are highlighted, including 'Awakened Dreaming' by Dick Sutphen, praised for its ability to induce psychographic exploration and relaxation. 'In the Presence of Light' by Terry Oldfield is recommended for its brilliant combination of sounds, while 'Crystal Cave' by Upper Astral is noted for its consciousness-affecting music. 'Druid' by Med Goddall is described as a potent metaphysical piece that evokes the power of standing stones. The section also briefly reviews 'The Secret Music of Plants' and 'Ionospheres' by Karma.

Letters and Pagan News

The magazine includes a 'Letters' section with correspondence from readers. Chris Fletcher shares his impressions of Ilkley Moor and its ancient sites, while Nigel Mortiser raises concerns about the misrepresentation of the Cracoe case in a book by David Clarke and Andy Roberts, asserting his prior discovery of the solution. 'Pagan News' provides information on obtaining sample issues.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of EARTH magazine consistently promotes a perspective that challenges reductionist and materialistic explanations for paranormal and mystical phenomena. It advocates for a broader understanding of consciousness, acknowledging its subjective and multifaceted nature. The editorial stance appears critical of commercial exploitation within the New Age movement and encourages a more rigorous, yet open-minded, approach to investigating earth mysteries and ufological events. There is a recurring theme of connecting ancient sites, natural phenomena, and altered states of consciousness, suggesting an underlying unity and interconnectedness within the universe. The magazine also expresses a frustration with the limitations of conventional scientific and academic paradigms in fully grasping these complex subjects, often attributing such limitations to a lack of intellectual capacity or a refusal to see beyond ingrained ideologies.

This issue of Weird War Tales, titled 'Spectral Soldiers of the Maginot Line' and authored by Jain N. Johnston, delves into the eerie paranormal phenomena associated with the Maginot Line fortifications in France. The magazine also features a comprehensive section of book reviews on a wide array of esoteric and paranormal topics.

Spectral Soldiers of the Maginot Line

The lead article explores the history of the Maginot Line, a massive static defense system built by France between 1927 and 1935. Despite its engineering prowess, it was outflanked by the German army in 1940 and subsequently abandoned. The article highlights reports of ghostly garrisons still occupying the line.

Several anecdotal accounts are presented:

• 1975 Incident: Two French spinsters exploring the ruins reported hearing soldiers marching, trucks, and shouted orders, but saw no visible activity.
• Pierre Chalmain's Account: A farm worker witnessed a battalion of sappers entrenching and singing, only to find the ground untouched a week later, despite the work appearing to have been done thirty years prior.
• Young Girls' Sighting: Two young girls observed a large World War 2-style army convoy driving towards the line, but the road on which the trucks were seen was later found to no longer exist.
• Charles Bonet's Experience: While his car was being repaired near Luxembourg, an insurance agent heard a World War 2 play on the radio, which was interrupted by a French general ordering the Maginot Line to be abandoned. The radio station denied broadcasting such a play.

The article concludes by stating that whatever strange paranormal forces haunt the Maginot Line, they seem to be there to stay.

Book Reviews

The magazine features a substantial section of book reviews, covering a diverse range of subjects within the paranormal, esoteric, and occult fields.

• Gateway to Inner Space: Sacred Plants, Mysticism & Psychotherapy (Edited by Christian Ratsch): This anthology is praised as a very good introduction to the use of hallucinogens, featuring papers on psychedelic therapy, sacramental tools, and mystical states. It is recommended for gaining insight into consciousness studies.
• Herbs in Magic and Alchemy: Techniques from Ancient Herbal Lore (by C.L. Zalewski): This book is described as a good introduction to using herbs in magickal formulae, detailing alchemical uses, elements, planets, and talismans. It includes a previously unpublished Golden Dawn ritual and is recommended for those interested in altered states, natural magick, shamanism, herbalism, and alchemy.
• Phantoms of the Sky: UFOs - A Modern Myth? (by David Clarke & Andy Roberts): This book is noted for its condemnation of much of modern ufology, arguing for a psychosocial symbiosis in witness observations. It examines flaws in visual perception and historical ufology but also acknowledges unexplained sightings. The review points out some errors in references and discrepancies in case descriptions.
• The Dream Machine: Lucid Dreams and How to Control Them (by Dr Keith Hearne): This book explores lucid dreaming and the development of the 'Dream Machine' device. It covers related topics like OOBEs and telepathy. The reviewer notes the lack of details on the availability or DIY construction of the dream machines.
• The Prediction Tarot Pack (by Sasha Fenton): This is presented as an introductory package for tarot, focusing on contemporary interpretations related to family life and money. The reviewer finds the minor arcana artistry bland and suggests it's more suited for 'high-fliers' than those seeking deep wisdom.
• Exploring the Paranormal: Perspectives on Belief and Experience (Edited by G.K. Zollschan, J.F. Schumaker & G.F. Walsh): This anthology features 22 papers on paranormal research, including scientific appraisals, religious phenomena, and skeptical analyses. It is aimed at a scientifically educated audience and is praised for its scholarly research and objective discussion, though a lack of an index is noted.
• Ecstatic Ritual: Practical Sex Magic (by Brandy Williams): This book is highly recommended as an excellent and sensitively written guide to sexual magick, free of dogma and prejudice. It is praised for its fresh approach and research, though the inside illustrations are considered a minor quibble.
• Modern Ritual Magic: The Rise of Western Occultism (by Francis King): A reprint of King's 1970 work, this book details the history of the Golden Dawn and its influence on modern magick. It covers key figures and is recommended for those new to the subject.
• Crop Circles (by Jenny Randles & Paul Fuller): This book examines crop circles, sifting through theories and proposing the 'Meaden Vortex' as a possible cause, while acknowledging limitations and unanswered questions. It also tentatively links crop circles to UFO phenomena.
• How to be a Medium (by J.Donald Walters): This book aims to enlighten readers on channeling consciousness. While it offers a way to open thoughts to an 'adjacent astral universe', the reviewer suggests it may confuse those seeking security in their mortal state.
• Mysteries of the Dream-Time: The Spiritual Life of Australian Aborigines (by James Cowan): This book provides insight into the aboriginal way of life, their Dreamtime, rituals, and spiritual experiences. It is recommended for its explanation of a fascinating culture and as a preparation for experiencing one's own Dreamtime.
• The Elements of Human Potential (by Nevill Drury): This appraisal covers consciousness studies from various perspectives, including cultural, ethical, religious, and scientific. It is highly recommended as an introduction to the subject, covering works by prominent figures in psychology and parapsychology.
• Snakefat and Knotted Threads: A Short Introduction to Traditional Finnish Magic (by K.M. Koppana): This book is an informative introduction to Finnish magick, covering basic rituals, spells, and herbal remedies. It is recommended as a good basic introduction to the art and practice of magick.
• Witchcraft: A Tradition Renewed (by Evan John Jones, with Doreen Valiente): This book is divided into four parts, covering the rudiments of the craft, coven structure, rituals, and the four great sabbats. It is described as informative and well-written, though the author tends to repeat himself.
• The Celtic Tarot (by Courtney Davis & Helena Paterson): This tarot pack and book are designed for those inclined towards capitalism and business rather than deeper occult realities. While the artwork is impressive, the interpretations are seen as off-putting due to their 20th-century social values.
• Two Worlds and Inbetween: Techniques of Modern Shamanism, Volume 2 (by Phil Hine): This manual is recommended as an introduction to modern shamanism, offering sensible pointers on pathworkings, power points, and ritual implements for personal exploration.
• Starry Wisdom (by The Esoteric Order of Dagon): A collection of essays related to the magickal themes of H.P. Lovecraft, this limited edition publication is described as lucid, evocative, and acclaimed.
• Merlin Awakes (by Peter Quiller & Courtney Davis): This biographical account of communion with an energy-entity named Merlin is seen as appealing to New-Agers, with messages similar to those from channeled spirits and UFO contactees. It is suggested as a potential new breed of supernatural reference.
• Goddess: Mother of Living Nature (by Adele Getty): This book provides a clear and succinct account of the role of the Goddess throughout history, covering myths, art, sculpture, and belief. It is considered a qualitative addition to the Art and Imagination series.
• Earth Radiation (by Kathe Bachler): This book, a bestseller in Germany and Austria, details research suggesting terrestrial energy emanations are responsible for many illnesses, correlating subterranean streams and geophysical frequencies with health issues. It is suggested that shifting sleeping positions or bed placement could overcome these problems.
• Understanding Astral Projection (by Anthony Martin): This is a clearly written work suitable for beginners wanting to understand astral projection and achieve out-of-body experiences. It warns of hidden dangers.
• Portraits of Alien Encounters (by Nigel Watson): This forthcoming book examines strange and frightening close encounters in detail, including various types of alleged alien encounters. Its main value is in showing how simple sightings can become entangled in complex visions.

Magazine Briefs

This section provides brief overviews of several other magazines:

• The Cereologist: Edited by John Michell, this magazine covers crop circles, discussing various theories and featuring book reviews and photos.
• The Wild Places: A new journal of the paranormal featuring articles on UFOs, exorcism, possession, and medium messages.
• Reefer Madness: A cannabis publicity magazine that hypes '50s publicity campaigns.
• Annals of the Enquiring: A Fortean magazine featuring odd-ball events like ghosts, UFOs, and death-rays.
• Markstone: The magazine of the North Lincolnshire EM Group, covering local oddities and paranormal matters.
• SKOOB Occult Review: A glossy magazine featuring articles on magick, wicca, alchemy, Crowley, anthropology, and UFOs, with contributions from notable writers in the field.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue demonstrates a strong interest in the paranormal, the occult, and unexplained phenomena, particularly in the context of historical sites like the Maginot Line. The book reviews cover a wide spectrum of esoteric beliefs and practices, from shamanism and magic to UFOlogy and consciousness studies. The editorial stance, as indicated by the reviewer 'Ed', is generally critical yet open-minded, seeking well-researched and objective accounts while also acknowledging the subjective nature of many paranormal experiences. There is a clear emphasis on providing readers with information and resources for further exploration of these subjects. The magazine also appears to be a platform for promoting other niche publications within the paranormal and esoteric genres.