Insolite no 11 - Juillet 1980

Magazine Overview

This issue of "BULLETIN DE LIAISON DES AMATEURS D'INSOLITE" (Liaison Bulletin of Lovers of the Unusual), issue number 11 from the second semester of 1980, published by the non-profit association "LES AMATEURS D' INSOLITE", delves into a variety of esoteric and speculative topics. The cover features a map with a large, dark, amorphous shape and two stylized cow-like figures, hinting at unusual phenomena. The price is 8 Francs.

"MAGOUILLE, ETRANGE MAGOUILLE..."

The lead article, authored by Anne VÊVE, explores the pervasive "catastrophism" of the era, particularly the anxieties surrounding the year 2000. VÊVE argues that while the underlying causes are rooted in a severe global crisis and the potential for destruction, the specific predictions of events like pole reversals or the resurgence of Atlantis are not solely explained by these factors. Instead, she posits that these fears tap into ancient archetypes and prophetic cycles, such as the "Scourge" (plagues, wars, famines), the "Deluge" (representing catharsis and renewal), and the "Messiah" (a figure of perfect leadership). She draws parallels between these mythical cycles and historical events, including the Marxist concept of revolution and the idea of a perfect leader ushering in an era of peace.

VÊVE critically examines the convergence of these prophecies, noting that many seers, from Malachi to Nostradamus and contemporary futurologists like those associated with the Club of Rome, point to the end of the century as a critical period. She questions the accuracy of these predictions, especially in light of events like Hiroshima, which she notes are conspicuously absent from most prophecies. The article also touches upon the inexplicable climatic conditions and strange atmospheric phenomena observed in recent years, suggesting they might be linked to solar activity.

The Nature of Prophecy and Mediumship

The author distinguishes between clairvoyants, mediums, and prophets. Clairvoyants are described as exploring probabilities and sometimes hitting the mark. Mediums, on the other hand, are seen as channeling information from a source, which can be prone to idealization and manipulation. VÊVE warns against the possibility of "intoxication" or manipulation of mediums by secret services or esoteric groups, citing historical examples of fabricated prophecies used in warfare. She suggests that the myth of the "Grand Monarque" and its parallels in other cultures might be a result of such subtle manipulation.

True prophets, according to VÊVE, operate on a psychic level, not through transes or spiritual writing. They offer clear-sightedness about human situations and the consequences of actions, urging change when necessary. She contrasts this with the passive acceptance of fate, using the biblical story of Jonah and Nineveh as an example of how prophecy can lead to repentance and salvation without diminishing free will.

The Observable and the Mythical

VÊVE then connects the observable world with the mythical, noting how the Earth is often treated as an isolated system. She discusses humanity's progress in space exploration, from Laika to the development of space shuttles and the concept of space islands. While acknowledging the potential of space colonization to solve problems like overpopulation and pollution, she also warns that the negative aspects of human nature – violence, stupidity, and the lust for destruction – could be amplified in such environments. She concludes that the most crucial challenge facing humanity is not economic or political, but moral and spiritual, emphasizing the importance of love and spiritual energy.

Historical Accounts of Perpetual Lamps

The latter part of the issue features several articles on "LAMPES PERPETUELLES" (Perpetual Lamps).

One section recounts the discovery of the tomb of Christian Rosenkreutz in 1614, where "Perpetual Lamps" were found. It also references Cyrano de Bergerac's "Voyage dans le soleil," which speaks of ancient "ardent lamps" used in tombs of illustrious individuals. These lamps, described as burning for long durations, were reportedly made with asbestos and a special mixture.

Another account details the discovery of the body of Cicero's daughter, Tullia, in Renaissance Italy. Her body was remarkably preserved, and a lamp beside her was still burning. However, Vatican authorities, fearing the creation of a popular cult, ordered the body to be reburied in an unknown location.

Similarly, a case from France, shortly after World War I, describes the discovery of a young woman's body in a cemetery, appearing to be asleep, with a burning oil lamp. Police authorities also ordered this body to be reburied secretly.

"LE FEU GREGEOIS" (Greek Fire)

This section details the invention and use of "Greek Fire," a formidable incendiary weapon. It is attributed to a Syrian named Callinicus, who shared the secret with the Byzantine Emperor in the 7th century. The emperor strictly forbade its divulgation, instructing his son to claim it was revealed by an angel and to use it only within the imperial city for Christians. By 1218, the secret was no longer closely guarded, and the Saracens used it against the city of Damiette. The article includes two recipes for its creation, one from an Arabic manuscript of Leyde (1225), detailing the use of resin, pitch, naphtha, galbanum, and seeds, and another simpler recipe involving resin, straw, black pitch, white naphtha, and sulfur.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently explores themes of the unusual, the esoteric, and the prophetic. It demonstrates a critical yet open-minded approach to phenomena that lie outside conventional understanding. The editorial stance appears to be one of encouraging critical inquiry into these subjects, distinguishing between genuine insight and potential manipulation, and emphasizing the importance of individual responsibility and spiritual growth in the face of global challenges. The magazine positions itself as a platform for sharing information and fostering dialogue among those interested in the "insolite."

This issue of "Le Propagateur" (pages 11-20) covers a diverse range of topics, from ancient warfare and meteorological instruments to biblical interpretations and esoteric concepts.

Ancient Warfare: Greek Fire

The issue begins by detailing the fearsome weapon known as "feu grégeois" (Greek fire), which was used with great success by the Saracens during the Crusades. The sieur de Joinville, a chronicler of Saint Louis's life, is quoted describing its terrifying appearance and sound, comparing it to a dragon in the air and a thunderbolt from the sky. He recounts King Saint Louis's prayers during its use. The article explains that Greek fire could be launched in several ways: through long tubes of iron or bronze, smaller "hand-held" tubes, or iron pots. It notes the introduction of saltpeter into combustible mixtures in the 13th century and mentions that Marcus of Greece, around the same period, was manufacturing floating firebombs and rockets. The text also points to the Chinese invention of gunpowder around 1232 and the Italians' development of the cannon in Florence in 1325, highlighting the continuous human ingenuity in creating instruments of death.

Meteorology: The Wind Rose and the Weather Predictor

Flavio Gioia of Amalfi (Italy) is credited with being the first to apply the principle of the marine compass to the wind rose. This led to the naming of winds being associated with his city, including La Tramontane (from Tramonti, Amalfi), Le Sirocco (from Syria), Le Libeccio "Suroit" (from Libya), and Le Grecale (from Greece).

• A section titled "LE PRONOSTIQUEUR DU TEMPS" (The Weather Predictor) describes a simple device: a 30 cm tall, 8 cm diameter glass tube filled with a mixture of camphor, potassium nitrate, and ammonium salt, dissolved in pure alcohol and distilled water. The tube can be open or sealed at the top and is fixed vertically. The article explains how the substance's behavior at the bottom of the tube indicates weather patterns:
• If the substance rests at the bottom and the liquid is clear, fair weather is expected.
• If the substance rises gradually and small star-like crystallizations appear, rain is imminent.
• If the substance reaches the top, forming leaf-like or branch-like crystals, and the liquid appears to ferment, a storm or strong wind is predicted, often 24 hours in advance.

The direction of the wind or storm is also indicated by the crystallization's origin point. In winter, the substance tends to stay high, signaling snow and frost. In summer, during hot and dry weather, it remains low and the liquid is clear. The intensity of the predicted weather is reflected in the number of crystallized particles.

Esotericism and Folk Remedies

Under the heading "GUÉRISON DES VERRUES" (Wart Cure), a folk remedy is presented: on Ascension Day, cut a lock of hair and place it in a slit in an eglantine branch. As the branch flowers, the warts will disappear. The article notes this is an old recipe.

Another section, "INVENTIONS SANS LENDEMAIN" (Inventions Without Tomorrow), discusses the weather predictor and then presents a method for warding off demons using holy water and vervain, a practice also attributed to the Romans before the advent of holy water.

Vaisseauologie (Vesselology)

Pages 3-4 introduce the concept of "Vaisseauologie," described as a part of the fourth dimension related to one's source. It suggests that individuals can become "energetic vessels" to escape the body's limitations and access non-sensory knowledge. This process is said to be continuous and originates from the fourth and fifth dimensions. The article posits that through this "vessel," one can gain knowledge in six months that a materialist scientist might not acquire in a lifetime. It emphasizes that simple, humble individuals have the best chance of realizing profound ideas. The text also touches upon positive encounters with "extra-terrestrial or extra-physical" beings, stating that these are not random but are influenced by positive attitudes and psychic reciprocity. It encourages readers to embrace their "Spirit-Vessel" to understand creative activity and to connect with universal consciousness.

Biblical Studies: The Chosen People and Lineage

Pages 5-10 delve into a critical examination of biblical genealogies, particularly concerning Abraham and his descendants. The author, Serge Xifre, questions the traditional interpretation of "the chosen people."

Abraham's Lineage and the Promise of Canaan

The narrative traces Abraham, an Aramean patriarch, who settled in Canaan. The promise of the land was extended to his posterity. The article scrutinizes the lineage, questioning whether Abraham's sons, including Ismael (from the Egyptian Hagar) and Isaac (from his wife Sarah), and even the six sons from his concubine Keturah, were all truly of different races as implied by some interpretations. The author argues that all of Abraham's sons were Arabs, as was Abraham himself, being an Arab Semite.

The Aramaeans and the "Usurpers"

The text asserts that the Aramaeans are the true heirs to the land of Canaan. It suggests that Abraham's expulsion of Hagar and Ismael annulled any claim for their descendants. The author also critically examines the claims of the Jewish people to Canaan, stating they are not of Semitic race and are not a pure race. The article contrasts them with the Syrians, who are presented as more authentically "Jewish" than the Jews themselves. The biblical narrative of Jacob usurping the birthright from his twin brother Esau is also discussed.

Racial Purity and Biblical Interpretation

The author emphasizes the importance of maintaining racial purity, citing Jacob's instruction to find a wife from his ancestral homeland to avoid intermarriage with foreign nations. The article questions the biblical account of the twelve tribes of Israel, suggesting there may have been fourteen, and links them to zodiacal signs and precious stones. It concludes that the Jewish people's claim to Canaan is an "inexcusable swindle" due to their non-Semitic origins.

Calendrical Calculation

A final section provides a method for calculating the day of the week for any date between 1900 and 2000 using a simple numerical code and arithmetic. This is presented as a useful skill for everyday life.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of "Le Propagateur" exhibits a critical and revisionist stance towards established historical and religious narratives, particularly concerning biblical accounts of lineage and chosen peoples. The magazine seems to favor alternative interpretations, questioning the purity of races and the validity of certain historical claims. There is a strong emphasis on esoteric knowledge, ancient technologies (like Greek fire), and folk wisdom, presented as potentially overlooked or suppressed truths. The editorial tone appears to be one of uncovering hidden knowledge and challenging conventional wisdom, encouraging readers to think independently and explore non-traditional avenues of understanding. The inclusion of practical advice, such as the wart remedy and the calendrical calculation, alongside more complex theoretical discussions, suggests a broad interest in accessible, yet often unconventional, knowledge.

This issue, identified by page numbers 21-30, delves into a variety of profound and historical topics, presented in French. The primary title is 'L'APOCALYPSE', accompanied by the subtitle 'MESSAGES D'AVANT LA FIN D'UN MONDE'. The content spans spiritual reflections, historical accounts, archaeological findings, and scientific milestones.

L'Apocalypse

The issue opens with a poetic and spiritual text titled 'L'APOCALYPSE'. It calls for shedding impurities and embracing a new era of love, faith, and magic. The text speaks of a coming reign of truth and redemption, contrasting the current world of lies with a realm of light and clarity. It foresees a period of 'deluge, chaos, tears and shed blood' before a final resurrection.

Following this, a continuation of the 'Apocalypse' theme describes a celestial choir and a 'huge brazier of love, tenderness and hope'. It speaks of a sublime metamorphosis of humanity and the construction of a 'gigantic dome' as an asylum of crystal. A rose blooming within this dome symbolizes life-giving water, and its thorns represent obstacles to overcome.

Votre Ciel Astronomique Natal et Réel

This section is an advertisement for an astrological service. For five French francs in stamps or three international reply coupons, one can receive an astrological sketch of their personality, accompanied by an outline of their physical and psychic traits. It requires the date, time, and place of birth, and a photo for potential rectification of the birth hour. The service is offered by R. MELO of the Institut du Verseau in Bellerive-sur-Allier.

Le Grand Appareil du Magnetisme Animal

This article discusses the principles and application of 'animal magnetism', referencing the work of Mesmer. It describes a large apparatus involving a round or elliptical basin, iron rods, and water, designed to magnetize individuals. The text explains how a 'chain' of people can increase the circulation of the fluid, and how even trees and canes can be magnetized. It suggests that with magnetic virtue, one can direct the fluid through reflections, sound, and other effects described in Mesmer's discoveries. The article cites the 'Journal de Paris, 1785, n° 47'.

Glozel

This section revisits the archaeological site of Glozel, located in Ferrières-sur-Sichon, Allier, France. It mentions the ongoing efforts to safeguard and protect the Glozel collections through an association and a pending request for excavations. Scientific work, particularly radiothermoluminescence, has helped authenticate the pottery and terracotta objects found by Emile FRADIN. While French researchers have shown less interest, foreign scholars from Switzerland, Sweden, and Russia have studied Glozel. The artifacts are dated to between 15,000 and 17,000 years old, predating Neolithic tribes. The article recommends reading 'ORIGINES DE L'ECRITURE' by Dr. A. Morlet and notes that the objects in the small museum are classified and cannot be touched. The department of Allier intends to transform the museum. The article also mentions that 'LES DOSSIERS DE L'ÉCRAN' will feature an emission on 'The Glozel Affair' by the end of the year.

666 - The Knights Templar

This extensive section details the history and suppression of the Knights Templar. It begins by referencing the number 666 as a pretext for the events. The narrative focuses on the condemnation and execution of Jacques de Molay, the last Grand Master, who was burned at the stake on March 18, 1314. Molay's final words are quoted, proclaiming his innocence and that of the Order. The article recounts the Order's origins, its role in protecting pilgrims, and its rise to power, which allegedly led to jealousy from kings. It describes the political machinations of King Philippe le Bel and Pope Clement V, leading to the mass arrest of Templars on October 13, 1307. The text details the use of torture to extract confessions, the subsequent retraction of these confessions by many Templars, and their condemnation as relapsed heretics. It highlights the bravery and noble bearing of the condemned Templars during their execution. The article also mentions the abolition of the Order by Pope Clement V in 1312, drawing a parallel to Pope Clement XIV's abolition of the Jesuits.

Il y a 35 ans l'homme en digne fils de Prométhée déroba le feu à l'atome

This section commemorates the 35th anniversary of the first atomic bomb test. It describes the detonation on July 16, 1945, in the New Mexico desert, where a 30-meter tower was vaporized, and the surrounding sand vitrified. A witness account vividly describes an unknown light, a 'new sun' rising rapidly, followed by a 'giant fireball' changing colors. The immense mushroom cloud is likened to a giant statue of liberty. The witness describes the transformation of immobile figures into dancing, joyous modern humans, a metamorphosis representing ten thousand years of evolution. The article concludes by noting that just 21 days later, a less powerful primitive bomb caused 70,000 deaths and injuries in Hiroshima.

Unexplained Maritime Event

A brief account describes an unexplained event on November 25, 1979, off Toulon, France. While fishing, the sea became unusually rough in a 100-meter radius around the boat, while being calm outside this circle. All electrical and mechanical equipment on the boat temporarily ceased to function. After about fifteen minutes, the sea calmed, and everything returned to normal. The cause remains a mystery.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently explores themes of profound transformation, whether spiritual (Apocalypse), historical (suppression of the Templars), archaeological (ancient Glozel artifacts), or scientific (the atomic bomb). There is a strong undercurrent of questioning established narratives and uncovering hidden truths, particularly evident in the defense of the Templars and the mystery surrounding Glozel. The magazine appears to be interested in phenomena that challenge conventional understanding, from ancient civilizations to unexplained events and the consequences of human technological advancement. The editorial stance seems to favor historical revisionism, spiritual exploration, and an open-minded approach to unexplained phenomena.

This issue of "DOSSIERS 'INFORMATION SURVIE'" is a French publication featuring a collection of historical and curious articles, with a price of 1 Franc per page. The issue is identified by its page number, -31-.

Articles and Content

Dossiers "Information Survie"

• The cover lists several titles with their page counts, including:
• GAZOGENES (48 PAGES)
• ASTHME, BRONCHITE, ALLERGIE (18 PAGES)
• FILAGE, TISSAGE (36 PAGES)
• ELECTRICITE et AUTARCIE (8 PAGES)
• ENERGIE SOLAIRE (30 PAGES)
• FOURS (à pain, à bois, etc) (11 PAGES)
• PAIN FABRICATION (13 PAGES)
• A note indicates that a complete list of titles is available by mail.

LAMPES PERPETUELLES (Suite)

This section recounts a story about Prince San Severo discovering the secret of perpetual lamps. An example is given of a lamp found burning in a hermetically sealed underground location for eighteen months without apparent replenishment. This account is attributed to "Observations en Italie par deux gentils-hommes suédois - 1764."

RAJEUNISSEMENT

This article discusses a plant called SERGIUS, found on a mountain near Mecca, which is claimed to have rejuvenating properties. According to P. Lucas, sultans of the seraglio use it to make women appear much younger than their actual age. This is cited from the "Journal des SAVANS - 1719 - page 643."

Anti-Vivisection Campaign

A prominent slogan reads: "AIDEZ-NOUS A LUTTER CONTRE L'HORRIBLE ET INUTILE VIVISECTION!" followed by the name of the organization "LA LIGUE FRANÇAISE CONTRE LA VIVISECTION" and its address in Uchaux.

COMBUSTION SPONTANEE (Page 2)

This article, drawn from the "dictionnaire de l'industrie AN IX," discusses spontaneous human combustion. It suggests that victims were generally heavy drinkers of spirits and often elderly, corpulent women. The combustion was sometimes initiated by minor causes like a burning ember from a pipe or candle. Water, rather than extinguishing the flames, seemed to intensify them on the fatty tissues. The residue left was described as greasy, fetid ashes and a penetrating soot. For more details, readers are directed to "Bulletin PHILOMATIQUE AN 7 n° 29, page 35."

JUGEMENTS DE DIEUX (Page 3)

This section describes "Judgments of God" or ordeals used to determine innocence. Accused individuals would undergo fasting, attend mass, and then face trials by boiling water (retrieving an object from a cauldron) or cold water (being thrown into water with limbs bound). The ordeal by fire was reserved for nobles, priests, and free persons. The Salic law allowed for a substitute in some cases.

LES NOMS DES MOIS DE L'ANNEE

The article traces the names of the months. Before Charlemagne, the Franks used Latin and barbarian words. Under Charlemagne, he proposed names in his own idiom, which had some analogy to Republican calendar terms like "MOIS D'HIVER," "MOIS DE BOUE," etc. After Charlemagne, these names were rarely used and replaced by others, some of which are not explained. For provinces where the year began in March, January and February were considered the eleventh and twelfth months, with February also called the "month of purgatory." June had names like "Le grand mois" (due to long days) and "SOMMERTRAS" (from German SOMMER for summer). Other months had names related to harvests and seasons. The text also mentions names for weeks, such as "SEMAINE DES BURES" or "DES BRANDONS" for the first week of Lent, and "SEMAINE MUETTE" for Holy Week, when church bells were not rung.

LES AEROSTATS DU PASSE (Pages 4-10)

This extensive section details the history and development of aerostats (balloons).

• Early Mentions: The "journal des savants de 1626" mentions a flying machine by Sieur Besnier, and a 1772 publication describes a "cabriolet volant."
• Physical Principles: The text explains how rarefied air, heated by the sun or fire, becomes lighter and rises, similar to clouds forming or soap bubbles floating.
• Montgolfier Brothers: The Montgolfier brothers are credited with applying these principles to create successful aerostats. Their early experiments in 1782 involved heating paper or silk machines. In November 1782, a small taffeta parallelepiped rose to the ceiling when heated. A larger test in Annonay involved a globe made of cloth, wood, and paper, which rose when heated from below.
• First Flights: The first public demonstration by the Montgolfiers involved a balloon that rose to an estimated height of five hundred toises (about 1000 meters). A subsequent experiment on November 19, 1783, at Versailles, involved a balloon carrying a sheep, duck, and rooster, which ascended for 27 seconds.
• Human Flights: Mr. Pilâtre de Rosier was one of the first to undertake human flights in these "montgolfières," using straw and wool for fuel. He made flights on November 21, 1783, and June 24, 1784.
• Chemical Aerostats: The possibility of using flammable air (hydrogen) derived from iron and sulfuric acid was explored. An experiment on August 27, 1783, with a globe filled with this gas resulted in its loss in the clouds. Another method involved extracting flammable gas from coal through pneumatic distillation.
• Directional Control: The challenges of steering balloons were significant. Sieur Blanchard attempted to use a large parasol and wings, but accidents occurred. Other attempts involved multiple balloons or using air currents.
• Construction: Descriptions are given of balloon construction, including materials like taffeta, paper, and even ox intestines, along with methods of assembly and sealing.
• Risks and Observations: The dangers of flammable air, including slow poisoning and potential explosions, are noted. Observations from flights included changes in barometric and thermometric readings, and the effect of altitude on the magnetic properties of lodestones. Some travelers noted that the attractive virtue of magnets diminished with elevation.
• Potential Uses: The Academy of Sciences suggested uses for aerostats such as lifting weights, crossing mountains, reaching inaccessible places, giving signals, and observing meteors and atmospheric conditions. They anticipated that with improved directionality, the consequences of these uses would be even greater.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine presents a collection of historical curiosities and scientific developments, with a particular interest in phenomena that challenge conventional understanding, such as perpetual lamps and spontaneous combustion. There is a strong advocacy for animal welfare through the anti-vivisection campaign. The detailed exploration of early aerostatic technology highlights a fascination with human ingenuity and the pursuit of flight, while also acknowledging the inherent risks and limitations of these pioneering endeavors. The overall tone suggests an interest in the unusual, the historical, and the scientific, presented in a manner accessible to a general audience.

This issue of "Les Amateurs d'Insolite" delves into a variety of intriguing topics, spanning historical accounts of early aeronautics, the scientific exploration of psychokinesis, and an unusual observation about self-turning roasted birds. The cover prominently features the phrase "ET POURTANT ELLE TOURNE" (And yet it turns), hinting at the diverse phenomena explored within.

Early Aeronautics and Aerostats

The magazine revisits the early history of aeronautics, beginning with observations on the combustion of charcoal and the development of aerostats. M. de Morveau is mentioned for his work on a 27-foot diameter aerostat using a new, economical composition. M. Fortin is noted for executing a 5-foot diameter balloon in 1789, filled with flammable air and coated with a special varnish, which remained aloft for five months.

The article highlights a significant historical point: the possibility of air navigation, discussed by P. Sckott approximately 150 years prior. It poses the question of whether humanity, having mastered water, could also master the air. The text then transitions to the practical application of aerostats, particularly their use as instruments of war during the French Republic's campaigns starting in 1794. Fourcroy's report to the National Convention is cited, detailing how scientists dedicated ten months to perfecting aerostation. This led to the creation of lightweight, durable silk fabric for balloons and the formation of aerostier companies. The Republic reportedly achieved 34 successful ascensions, impressing enemies.

Parachutes and Safety

Following the discussion on aerostats, the issue touches upon the development of safety measures, specifically parachutes. It mentions the unfortunate experiences of Montgolfier and the proposals by Reimains of Hamburg for improving aerostat safety. The text recalls Blanchard's early attempts to use a parasol as a parachute, though his initial trials were at low altitudes. A more significant development is attributed to Garnerin, who in 1797-1798, made a descent from a balloon using a large canvas parachute, an experiment that, while not perfectly successful initially, was later repeated with greater success.

The PK Effect: Psychokinesis and Dice Tests

A substantial portion of the magazine is dedicated to the phenomenon of Psychokinesis (PK), also known as "Psychokinèse" or "L'Effet PK." The article traces its origins to 1934 with Dr. Rhine's work at Duke University, where a player claimed to influence dice rolls through willpower. The magazine presents a simplified approach to testing PK, focusing on graphical analysis rather than overwhelming statistical data.

Two primary methods are detailed: the "SINGLE TEST," where subjects aim for a specific number on one or both dice, and the "SEVEN TEST," where the goal is to achieve a total of seven with two dice. The article emphasizes a method that prioritizes the quality of results and the shape of the outcome curve over mere numerical deviation from chance. It acknowledges that while chance can produce good scores, human influence is detectable through graphical analysis.

Several case studies are presented with graphical representations (labeled A through E). Subject Robert Sauerborn (Graph A) shows a regular PK effect, considered rare. Jean-Jacques Bich (Graph B) exhibits a completely null PK effect. J. Charnet (Graph C) shows an initial lack of effect, followed by a sharp deviation attributed to frustration or a desire to 'punish' the experimenters, termed "PSI MISSING" by Americans. Philippe Melleret (Graph D) demonstrates a clear PK effect after a brief pause and encouragement. Gérard Petit (Graph E) shows an initial promising curve that becomes parallel to chance after his friends leave the room, suggesting external influences on the outcome.

The article concludes this section by encouraging readers to become their own subjects or test their friends, highlighting the importance of noting all incidents during tests to understand graphical anomalies.

Historical Curiosity: Self-Turning Roasted Birds

Under the heading "ET POURTANT ELLE TOURNE," the magazine recounts a curious anecdote from 1770. A gardener presented a starling that, when roasted on a hazel branch, turned by itself. Further experiments with a sparrow on a green hazel branch confirmed that a bird of moderate size, when properly roasted on a green hazel branch placed on level supports, would turn on its own until fully cooked. This phenomenon was noted as being over 200 years old at the time and was documented in historical texts like Porta's "Magia Naturalis" and Kircher's "Physiologia Experimentalis."

Etymology of Napoleon

The issue concludes with an etymological breakdown of the name Napoleon. It states that "Napoleon" is composed of two Greek words, meaning "Lion of the Desert." By successively removing the first letter and then the first letter of each word, six Greek words are derived, with a literal translation indicating "Napoleon, being the lion of the peoples, was going to destroy cities."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the exploration of unexplained phenomena, historical scientific investigations, and the potential for human influence on physical reality. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, presenting historical accounts and experimental data without definitive conclusions, encouraging readers to investigate further. The magazine seems to champion the amateur investigator, providing methods and examples for personal exploration into the unusual.

Title: LES AMATEURS D'INSOLITE
Issue: 10
Volume: 1
Date: Approximately January 1980 (inferred from context of issue numbering and typical publication cycles, though not explicitly stated).
Publisher: LES AMATEURS D'INSOLITE
Country: France
Language: French

This issue of "Les Amateurs d'Insolite" (Amateurs of the Unusual) is primarily dedicated to the theme of psychokinesis, featuring a detailed test chart for measuring psychokinetic abilities. The magazine also provides a comprehensive summary of its first 10 issues, offering a glimpse into the diverse range of paranormal, mysterious, and unusual topics it covers.

Content Highlights

Psychokinesis Test

The central feature of this issue is a "TEST DE PSYCHOKINESIE" (Psychokinesis Test). The test involves subjects performing various tasks, indicated by checkboxes for "SINGLE TEST," "SUJET," "FACE," "LANCERS," "MAIN," "CORNET," "PLAN INCLINE," and "SEVEN TEST." The chart has two axes: the horizontal axis represents "NOMBRE DE JEUX DE 12 LANCERS" (Number of Games of 12 Throws), ranging from 0 to 36. The vertical axis is labeled "SCORE OBTENU" (Score Obtained), with two scales: one from 0 to 180 on the left and another from 10 to 90 on the right. Two intersecting diagonal lines are plotted on the graph, likely representing performance benchmarks or expected results.

Summary of First 10 Issues

Page 4 provides a detailed summary of the content from the first 10 issues of the magazine. These summaries reveal a broad spectrum of topics explored by "Les Amateurs d'Insolite":

• Issue №1: Covers the statutes of the association, the phenomenon of OVNI (Unidentified Flying Object), a journey to GLOZEL, mixed phosphorescence, OVNI investigations, a detection network, and a directory.
• Issue №2: Continues the GLOZEL theme, discussing personality and zodiac signs, the "bories," phosphénisme, apparitions at KERIZINEN, a radiesthesia monitor, and a seminar in MALAUCENE.
• Issue №3: Features a mysterious inscription at VAISON LA ROMAINE, the Geller effect, the Commandery of St. Antoine of MACON, OVNI investigations, a healer named Alain CLERICO, unusual geology, and a discussion on Claude RAEL and the false prophet of the Apocalypse.
• Issue №4: Explores the Order of the Antonins, a soul's journey, two OVNI investigations, the methods of Marcel VIOLET, "blood mortar," doctors from the afterlife, an OVNI at GLOZEL, and toponymy.
• Issue №5: Discusses the "cheminées sarrasines" of La Bresse, preliminary steps for the quest for the Holy Grail, tectites, KERVAN effects, a 25-year period, a new PSI effect, and a detachable supplement on toponymy.
• Issue №6: Covers spiritual healers, ecology, the method of Jean, the "adventure of the Bible," FALICON's observations, graphology and its symbolism, and glaciers.
• Issue №7: Investigates the anti-demon of Mascon, the "adventure of the Bible" (continued), the passage from the Woevre to crystal, an unusual tomb, the origins of life and civilization, and pyramids and mummification.
• Issue №8: Questions the Pentateuch, discusses the "false Jeanne d'Arc," two OVNI investigations, the GRI PHOM and animal magnetism, the election of Popes, and divine names in the Bible.
• Issue №9: Examines the divinity of the Bible, OVNI reports in the press, the pyramid effect, meteorites, OVNI propagation, the discovery of Mars satellites, immediate danger, and a report from the 36th general assembly of the United Nations.
• Issue №10: Focuses on the "adventure of the Bible," an interrogation about a species in danger of extinction, artificial gold, an Egyptian tale, testimonies collected by amateurs of the unusual, the legend of the Holy Cross, phosphénic yoga, OVNI sightings in Péage de Roussillon, the cross of absolution, "vaisseaulogie" (likely related to UFOs), extrasensory perception, recording voices from beyond the grave, and a message from the master.

Subscription and Contact Information

The magazine includes a form for ordering back issues. It specifies prices per issue (6 Frs or 8 Frs) and offers a discount of 1 Franc per issue for orders of more than 2 copies for residents in France. Payment methods include bank check, postal order, or international coupons/French stamps. The publication's address is provided as BP 186, 71007 MACON CEDEX, France, with a postal account number (CCP) of 4.191.83 X DIJON. Readers are also invited to become supporting members.

A clear notice is given regarding subscription renewals: "SI VOTRE REVUE COMPORTE UN POINT ROUGE CI-CONTRE, C'EST QUE VOTRE ABONNEMENT SE TERMINE AVEC CE NUMERO." (If your magazine has a red dot opposite, it means your subscription ends with this issue.) Readers are urged to renew promptly.

Visual Elements

Pages 5 and 6 feature images and illustrations. Page 5 displays several artifacts, possibly ancient or unusual objects, including what appears to be a bird-like head, a phallic figure, a mask-like face, and a carved stone with intricate markings. Page 6 shows an illustration of a house with two figures in the foreground and three small circular objects in the sky, hinting at a UFO encounter, along with the magazine's title and contact details.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

"Les Amateurs d'Insolite" appears to maintain a consistent editorial stance focused on exploring the unexplained, the paranormal, and fringe subjects. The recurring themes include UFOs (OVNIs), psychokinesis, ancient mysteries, alternative histories, spiritual phenomena, and unexplained events. The magazine encourages reader participation through tests and membership, positioning itself as a platform for enthusiasts of the unusual and the unknown. The detailed summaries of past issues indicate a commitment to in-depth investigation and reporting on a wide array of topics that fall outside mainstream scientific or historical understanding.