1957 02 00 Fantastic Universe - Truth is fantastic - Gray Barker

Magazine Overview

Title: FANTASTIC UNIVERSE SCIENCE FICTION
Issue: FEB.
Date: 1957-02
Publisher: A KING SIZE PUBLICATION
Price: 35c

This issue of Fantastic Universe Science Fiction features a prominent cover headline about Ivan Sanderson on Flying Saucers, alongside articles and stories by Gray Barker, Harlan Ellison, and Richard Wilson, and a novelet titled 'Olcanero' by Robert E. Gilbert. The cover art depicts a classic flying saucer against a dramatic, fiery cityscape.

The Truth Is Fantastic by Gray Barker

The main article, "The Truth Is Fantastic," by Gray Barker, delves into the complexities and alleged cover-ups surrounding flying saucer investigations. Barker recounts his experiences and conversations with Dominick C. Lucchesi (also referred to as Dom), a gyroscope technician by day and a flying saucer theorist by night. Lucchesi, who was involved with the International Flying Saucer Bureau (IFSB), shared his theories and experiences, including a demonstration of the 'human aura.'

Barker describes a weekend visit to Lucchesi's home in Jersey City, culminating in a discussion about the 'Bender Mystery.' Bender, a key figure in saucer research and head of the IFSB, was reportedly visited by three men in dark suits who claimed he had discovered the answer to the flying saucer mystery. This encounter allegedly caused Bender to become severely ill and cease his investigations, leading to the IFSB eventually closing down and refunding membership dues.

Barker and Lucchesi discuss the possibility that Bender had found something significant, possibly related to the origin or nature of the saucers, and that this knowledge led to his intimidation. They speculate that the three men were not government agents due to their conspicuous dress and methods, raising questions about their true sponsorship.

The article also touches upon the Flatwoods 'monster' incident, which Barker investigated and found to be a genuine, non-hoax event involving an unknown, possibly extraterrestrial, creature. This incident, along with others, spurred Barker's interest in the saucer phenomenon.

Barker and Lucchesi express frustration over the lack of definitive answers and the apparent silencing of researchers. They ponder why they themselves haven't been silenced, suggesting it might be because they don't possess the crucial 'key' to the mystery or the physical evidence that others might have.

Other Content and Themes

The issue includes contributions from notable science fiction writers like Harlan Ellison and Richard Wilson, and features a novelet by Robert E. Gilbert. The overall theme revolves around the persistent mystery of flying saucers, the challenges faced by investigators, and the potential for a grand, perhaps unsettling, truth behind the phenomenon.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the UFO phenomenon, often presenting it as a genuine mystery with potentially extraordinary explanations. The articles suggest a pattern of intimidation and silencing of researchers who get too close to uncovering the truth. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into these phenomena, acknowledging the fantastic nature of the subject matter while seeking factual accounts and plausible, albeit often speculative, explanations. The emphasis on 'The Truth' in the article title underscores a commitment to uncovering factual information, even if that truth is stranger than fiction.

Title: THE TRUTH IS FANTASTIC
Issue: 71
Publisher: KING-SIZE PUBLICATIONS, Inc.
Country: USA
Language: English
Date: Undetermined from scan, but content suggests 1950s.

This issue of THE TRUTH IS FANTASTIC delves into the intriguing possibility that certain geographical locations might serve as points of origin or even bases for flying saucers. The narrative follows a discussion where the idea is presented that a spot on the map could indicate such a place.

Bender's Research and Mysterious Circumstances

The text mentions a researcher named Bender, whose project aimed at investigating these possibilities in Australia and New Zealand unfortunately ceased before it could be fully realized. The author, in conversation with a colleague named Dom, expresses a sense of being 'on the right track' regarding these investigations. However, their discussion is interrupted by a flight announcement.

Dom articulates a profound fear that often accompanies saucer research, describing it as a fear of the unknown and of delving into matters one might not be meant to explore. This sentiment is amplified by the fact that the author is carrying the entire Bender files, which represent a significant amount of evidence. The narrative hints at a potential danger, noting that numerous planes have been crashing mysteriously, suggesting a possible effort to suppress or eliminate this evidence.

Offer for Back Issues

Adjacent to the main content, there is a prominent advertisement encouraging readers to purchase a complete file of FANTASTIC UNIVERSE. It highlights that all 37 issues published to date are available, featuring top writers in the field. The offer includes 'bargain prices': single copies at 35 cents, three copies for $1, six copies for $1.75, and twelve copies for $3.25. The advertisement is placed by KING-SIZE PUBLICATIONS, Inc., located at 320 5th Avenue, New York 1, N.Y., and includes a coupon for readers to fill out their name and address to order the magazines.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue appears to focus on the investigative and speculative aspects of UFO phenomena, particularly concerning the origins and potential bases of unidentified flying objects. There's an underlying tone of caution and potential danger associated with uncovering sensitive information, as suggested by the mysterious plane crashes. The editorial stance seems to be one that encourages exploration and research into these phenomena, while also acknowledging the inherent risks and the 'fear of the unknown' that such pursuits can evoke. The inclusion of the back issue sale suggests a commitment to providing readers with a comprehensive archive of UFO-related content.