Folklore Frontiers - No 011

Magazine Overview

Title: FOLKLORE FRONTIERS
Issue: No. 11
Date: March 1, 1990
Publisher: Paul Screeton
Focus: Independent, non-profit magazine dedicated to urban belief tales and modern legends.

Editor's Foreword

Paul Screeton, the editor, outlines a plan to sell spare and review books at reasonable prices to ensure the magazine's financial stability and keep its costs down. He offers a wide range of books, fiction and non-fiction, at approximately one-third of the published price, including postage. Readers interested in receiving lists of available books are asked to send a stamped, self-addressed envelope (SAE).

The Diary

This section covers various news items and observations:

• William Barry Herbert: Criticized for perpetuating fiction about diesel locomotives and 'Railway Ghosts and Phantoms'. He is reportedly writing a book on pub ghosts.
• Gary Bushell (The Sun TV critic): Praised for suggesting the BBC should devote more time to British folklore, similar to their coverage of 'Mahabharat'.
• Marietta Higgs: Her sons, Robin and Nicholas, were accused of burglary, with differing reports in 'Today' and 'D Express'. The 'Northern Echo' is noted for its past support of the Higgs family.
• John Michell: Was expected to write a piece on a 'bogus social workers scam', but it had not materialized by the deadline.
• Late Show presentation of JETS: Screeton comments positively on the program, noting the effective dramatization of tales and the contribution of researcher Jane Rundle, who had invited him to appear.

Satellite Sabotage

A brief item discusses the vandalism of TV satellite dishes by 'green anarchist groups' who claim non-ionising radiation can cause cataracts and leukaemia. Methods include splattering dishes with paint, shooting off receiver arms, or tying them to cars.

Letters

A letter from Mr. Paul Screeton, dated March 1, 1990, addresses Jan Harold Brunvand's speculation about satellite dish legends, noting an example found in 'Green Magazine' (October 1990).

Another mention is made of Screaming Lord Sutch and his interest in the Loch Ness Monster, and his role in opposing David Owen's political party.

Trolley Folly by Paul Screeton

This article explores the phenomenon of supermarket trolleys and their place in modern society and folklore. Screeton references philosopher Jean Baudrillard's concept of 'hyper-reality' in consumer society. He questions why trolleys, despite being involved in numerous accidents (5,000 annually in Britain), have not attracted a mythology comparable to the internal combustion engine. He cites examples like a 'Times Saturday Review' article featuring a trolley in stained glass and a 'Journal Qas Magazine' report about a young girl killed in a DIY store while riding a trolley. The article also notes incidents of trolleys being dumped, used as makeshift prams, or even as missiles. It mentions by-laws being passed in London boroughs to counter the trolley menace and cites examples of trolleys found miles from their stores or in unusual locations like a woman's flat.

The Yuppies by Annie Tempest

A short comic strip depicting a supermarket trolley.

My Kinda Town Dept.

A brief note about Tesco in Watford potentially offering 'a person of the other gender'.

Sun

An item about 'Anglers' dredging 73 dumped shopping trolleys from the River Ogmore in Mid-Glamorgan.

Loco chimney mystery solved by Terry Sykes and Helen Smith

This article details an investigation into the legend of a steam locomotive buried at Garsdale on the Settle-Carlisle Railway. Terry Sykes and Helen Smith, using a metal detector and with assistance from Thorn EMI, searched the site. They found a chimney protruding from the embankment, as described by the late Mr. Dick Fawcett in his book 'Ganger, Guard and Signalman'. However, their excavations revealed no engine parts, only clay, suggesting the chimney might have been broken off and carried down the bank. Despite the lack of a buried engine, the investigation was considered a success, and the chimney was recovered for restoration. The article also touches upon other buried locomotive legends and mentions a pub called 'The King of Prussia' in Bideford, Devon, where a piano was buried after demolition.

What happened to the buried loco?

A query from W. Parker of Gosport, Hants, about a 2ft gauge railway built by the Royal Engineers in the 1880s near Fort Blockhouse, Gosport, and a photograph of an excavated boiler. He seeks information on where the remains were taken.

Update

• Backmasking: Discusses the practice of recording messages in reverse, referencing 'Skeptical Inquirer' and a former pastor's views on heavy metal music. It notes that UK rockers Judas Priest were cleared of charges related to alleged subliminal messages causing suicide.
• Windsors: Mentions new details from a book by Mr. Ziegler about the Duke and Mrs. Simpson, including rumours about the Duke's sexual performance.
• Autocash Machines: An article by Jake Williams (FF7, p9) is referenced, discussing Lyall Watson's book 'The Nature of Things', which suggests that daily machines are evolving into a new form of life.
• Kamikaze Pigeons: Reports on pigeon fanciers using birds carrying poison pellets to combat falcons, a practice deemed illegal.
• Architect's Blunder: A note from Peter Christie about houses in South View Terrace, Northenden Road, being built back-to-front, attributed to an architect's mistake or local lore.

Dad says body in the morgue is his son — but it isn't him

An exclusive report by David Brown details the case of John Crawford, who was mistakenly identified as dead by seven people, including his father. The mix-up occurred when a body was fished from the River Clyde, and John's father and brother identified it based on a description. John, alive and well, contacted his family while they were arranging for the body's return.

Grave Error

A brief mention of a previous article in FF9 by Bob Skinner on mistaken identification, with this case being the latest example.

Cot Deaths

Discusses the link between 'electropollution' and cot deaths, referencing Roger Coghill's research and claims that people living near power lines have higher rates. It also notes other articles blaming pylons for various societal problems.

Flash in the Pan

A brief anecdote about a pipe-smoker who experiences an explosion after eating pickled onions for breakfast, as recounted in Mollie Harris's book 'Privies Galore'.

A real frog in his throat!

This story, from 'The Mail' in Hartlepool, recounts a woman being approached by a man who pulled a frog from his mouth. It also mentions a news item about Australian junkies dying from sipping toad skin tea and the practice of toad-licking.

Punchline by John Pool

• Cat Road Incident: A man runs over a cat, stops to examine it, and then hits it with a jack to put it out of its misery, only to discover it was not the cat he thought it was.
• Rabbit Story: A family gives their pet rabbit to an elderly neighbour, who later reveals she cooked and ate it.

Readers' Letters

• Nigel Pennick (Cambridge): Expresses frustration with publishers altering his work, specifically removing references to Nazis and the word 'borniess'.
• Kari P N Shuker (West Bromwich): Thanks the magazine for reviewing his books on lake monsters and mystery cats, explaining omissions in his work due to space constraints.

Contributors

Brief mentions of Helen Smith and Terry Sykes for their work on the buried locomotive mystery, Maggie Russell for her obituary of Anthony Roberts, and Paul Screeton, the magazine's editor and author.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores themes of urban legends, modern folklore, unexplained phenomena, and reader-submitted anecdotes. There is a clear interest in debunking hoaxes while also presenting intriguing mysteries and unexplained events. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging reader participation and providing a platform for diverse accounts of the unusual. The magazine also engages with broader cultural commentary, as seen in the critique of media coverage and the discussion of societal trends.

This issue of "BOOK REVIEWS" from June 1, 1990, features a comprehensive collection of reviews of recently published books, primarily focusing on themes of folklore, urban legends, earth mysteries, ufology, and esoteric subjects. The magazine's overall character is that of an enthusiast's guide to literature within these niche fields, offering critical analysis and summaries of various titles.

Book Reviews

"Curses! Broiled Again!" by Jan Harold Brunvand

This review highlights Brunvand's latest collection of contemporary urban legends, noting its witty presentation and erudition. The reviewer discusses several tales from the book, including the titular legend about a girl who cooked her insides at a tanning parlour. Other featured legends include "Postcards From Little Buddy" (referencing Craig Shergold's record-breaking number of get-well cards), "Bleeping Smoke Alarm," and "Roaming Gnomes." The reviewer also touches upon English variations of urban legends, such as those involving farmers and sheepdogs.

"Magical Tales" by R.J. Stewart

Stewart's book is described as appealing to those interested in British magical tradition and the works of authors like Alan Garner. The 13 stories are praised for their wisdom and enjoyment, aiming to reawaken interest in storytelling as an art and a path to psychic health. The author discusses the ancient roots of magical tales and provides guidance on using his stories for visualization, meditation, and personal development, distinguishing it from typical New Age material.

"The Restoration of Cock Robin" by Norman Iles

Iles' work is presented as an effort to restore the original, often sexual, meanings of nursery rhymes. The reviewer explains that Iles argues nursery rhymes are a forgotten store of sexual song and uses imagery to reveal forgotten symbolism. Examples like "Hey diddle diddle," "Jack and Jill," and "Ladybird, ladybird" are analyzed for their starlore, solar myth, and Neolithic connections. The review delves into the interpretation of "The Old Man" as a metaphor for sexual repression and discusses how Christian carols are seen as a contradiction, lacking indigenous customs.

"The Ley Hunter's Manual" by Alfred Watkins

This is a paperback reprint of Watkins' 1927 field guide to prehistoric trackways, now part of the broader discipline of "earth mysteries." The review notes John Michell's introduction, which places Watkins' work in a modern context and encourages readers to test the reality of leys. The enduring relevance of Watkins' vision is emphasized, seeing its influence reflected in esoteric patterns across continents and ages.

"The Scars of Evolution" by Elaine Morgan

Morgan's book presents a compelling argument for an aquatic phase in human evolution, which the reviewer finds attractive and tantalizing, though not entirely convincing. The arguments for man's nakedness, bipedalism, sweating, eccrine glands, tears, fat layer, speech, and face-to-face intercourse are highlighted as strong. The review mentions the aquatic ape theory being discussed at an international conference, suggesting a retreat for the savannah theory. It's described as a controversial, informative, and scientifically engaging read.

"Places of Power" by Paul Devereux

Devereux's book is reviewed for its exploration of the persistence of rumors about places of power, aiming to turn legend into fact. It discusses experiences of receiving shocks from standing stones and examines traditions, ancient peoples, and scientific work. The review touches upon radiation, ultrasound, and magnetism, referencing sites like Lastierigg and Long Meg. It also notes the author's acknowledgment that the term "earth mysteries" was given to the multidisciplinary inquiry by an unknown journalist in 1974.

"The Big Wheel" by Bruce Thomas

This book is described as marginally folkloric but of general interest due to its focus on a rock musician's touring experiences. It's compared to Jack Kerouac for the Nineties, offering a perceptive and witty view of rock 'n' roll touring. A notable section discusses fishermen near Sizewell nuclear power station catching fish with tumors and glowing in the dark. The book is based on Thomas's time as bass player for Elvis Costello and The Attractions, and it's characterized as a rock survivor's memoir.

"Shamanism" and "Yoga" by Mircea Eliade

Eliade's works are presented as routes to understanding the mysterious figure of the shaman, linking religion, psychology, sociology, and ethnology. "Shamanism" analyzes techniques, symbolisms, and mythologies, while "Yoga" examines ascetic techniques in relation to technique, religion, alchemy, and shamanism.

"Earth Mysteries" by Michael Howard

This review is highly critical, accusing Howard of concocting a "cauldron of plagiaristic flotsam" with no original thought. The reviewer finds the work sloppy and self-aggrandizing, particularly criticizing the concept of a "quantum leap in the rock's consciousness," arguing that "quantum" means negligible, not enormous.

"Fire in the Sky" by Jenny Randles

This booklet is an impressive monograph on the well-known Peter Day UFO movie from Buckinghamshire in 1973. It meticulously researches the case, including testimonies and interviews, but lacks actual photographs. The presence of a crashed American military jet subsequently leads the reviewer to believe the film shows an F-111 fighter in trouble.

"The Inhabited Solar System" by Jimmy Goddard

Goddard's booklet supports the "Space Brothers" line in ufology, a notion often denigrated. The review notes the booklet's dated feel, referencing Adamski and Hunt Williamson, and the concept of "solexmal" as an apparent interlingua of the solar system. The reviewer finds the idea of cosmic guardians naive but acknowledges the booklet's emotional appeal.

"Ghostly Visions" by Peter Barnard Castle and Mary Harrison

This book is a collection of authentic ghost stories experienced by ordinary people, including tales from the North of England.

"Stonehenge Scrolls," "Glastonbury Treasures," "Dragon Treasures," "Exploring Rock Art," and "Celtic Secrets" edited by Donald L. Cyr

These are described as lavishly produced paperbacks from "The Best of Stonehenge Viewpoint Series." They cover topics such as Isaac Vail's canopy climate theory, ancient artifacts, the Glastonbury Zodiac, transatlantic voyages, feng shui, epigraphy, and Celtic secrets. The review notes Donald's warning about censorship and discouragement of unknown researchers.

Other Content

"The Mail" Newspaper Snippets

The issue includes a brief article from "The Mail" newspaper dated June 1, 1990, about a brave cancer boy, Craig Shergold, who became the official champ for the most get-well cards ever received, making it into the 1991 Guinness Book of Records. The article details the overwhelming number of cards sent by readers and celebrities.

"Ozzy 'suicide song'"

This section reports on Ozzy Osbourne facing a £10 million lawsuit over two U.S. teenagers who allegedly shot themselves after listening to his song "Suicide Solution," which the parents claim contained suicidal messages. Osbourne's defense is that the lyrics were misinterpreted.

Compact Disc Craze

A brief mention of a craze among U.S. Compact disc users who mark the inner and outer edges of CDs with a green felt pen to improve sound quality.

"In Conclusion" Column

This column, written by "Bored Reader," expresses distaste for a series of "weird stories" focusing on animal cruelty published by John Pool. The writer hopes Pool will move on to more interesting fare. The column also provides updates on previous pages, referencing the stories about Craig Shergold, Ozzy Osbourne, and a cat horror story.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently reviews books that delve into the unexplained, the paranormal, and the esoteric. There is a clear interest in folklore, urban legends, and theories that challenge conventional scientific or historical narratives, such as the aquatic ape theory and earth mysteries. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry into these subjects, though critical analysis is also present, as seen in the review of Michael Howard's book. The inclusion of newspaper snippets and a concluding column suggests an effort to connect these specialized interests with broader cultural and news events, while also offering a platform for reader feedback and commentary on the content itself. The emphasis on book reviews indicates a commitment to informing readers about new literature within these fields.