Quicksilver Messenger - No 07

Magazine Overview

Title: Quicksilver Messenger
Issue: 7
Price: 75p
Country of Publication: England
Publisher: Not explicitly stated, but based in Brighton, England.
ISSN: 0260-7484

This issue of Quicksilver Messenger, number 7, focuses on earth mysteries, with a prominent article on the "Fountain Project" in Brighton and a travelogue on "Megalithic Holidays" in Portugal. The magazine aims to explore subjects free from dogma and ideology, encouraging an authentic picture of reality and a connection with nature.

Editorial Intro

The editorial intro discusses the 'New Age' movement, characterizing earth mysteries as being free from dogma and ideology. It warns against the 'new puritanism' within the New Age that can discourage independent thinking and encourage group prejudice. The editor emphasizes the importance of staying free from dogmas to build an authentic picture of reality and to connect with nature as a 'Goddess'. The issue is presented as the "biggest issue ever of QSM" and potentially the most interesting, with a wide range of approaches to the subject supported.

The Fountain Project by Colin Bloy

This article details the work of "The Fountain Group," formed in Brighton in the summer of 1981. The group applies dowsing and psychic perceptions of the ley system to the act of healing individuals and the community. They view the ley system as an evolving, living energy system where number and geometrical form are crucial. The article describes how deliberate acts of heightened consciousness, such as blessings or healing, can increase the number of parallels within ley lines and establish geometrical fields. The Service of Dedication for the Brighton and Hove Conurbation took place on September 29, 1981, at St. Bartholomew's church, Brighton. The intention was to focus healing energies daily on the Fountain in Old Steine, Brighton, which is believed to be a memory of an ancient stone circle. The article outlines a primary energy line that passes through Brighton, connecting it to other significant locations in England and France, following what appears to be an old pilgrim route. This line is seen as the "spinal column of Brighton." The group's work aims at the specific and continual healing of a particular community through its 'acupuncture' channels or ley lines, an approach they believe has not been attempted elsewhere. The article notes that the central line of Brighton began to grow exponentially, from a triple 64 bar line to an extraordinary 6400/64 bar line by September 1981. The objectives of the group's visualizations include the reduction of crimes of violence, stress-induced diseases, sociological problems, vandalism, and litter, alongside promoting greater civic awareness. Phenomena observed in Paris and Madrid, where similar Fountain Groups operate, are also mentioned.

The article discusses the concept of a "chequer board pattern" that emerged, with common sides made up of 8 lines each, measuring 22 paces in each direction. This pattern stopped at specific points, forming small non-contiguous squares. Over time, this pattern grew exponentially. The article posits that the group's activity on a spiritual level seems to be a main cause of changes, with unofficial sources suggesting a significant drop in violent crime and Brighton Council allocating funds for town cleanup. The article concludes by emphasizing that the group's structure is non-hierarchical, with an emphasis on impulse and objective, and that non-structured groups tend to remain stronger in their spiritual endeavors.

John Foster Forbes: Eccentric Antiquarian by Paul Screeton

This section introduces John Foster Forbes, a poet, preacher, prehistorian, painter, schoolmaster, and broadcaster, who died in Brighton. Forbes is described as an "antiquarian screwball" but was a Fellow of the Royal Anthropological Institute and the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland. He was a strong believer in a previous Golden Age and a Fall of Man caused by the abuse of knowledge, positing that a cataclysmic disaster overtook Atlantis. He believed that Atlanteans sought to abuse their powers, leading to destruction, and that the early Atlantean civilization was an attempt to regain lost status. Forbes viewed "Atlantis in Britain" as an amazing attempt at a resurgence of this age. He is credited with the idea of a "cyclopean walls" connecting Devonian tors and "water worn remains of shaped statues of prehistoric animals." His work is characterized by inspirational paintings depicting ancient stones. He married Caroline Gwynilda, a wealthy older woman, and their marriage broke down due to his eccentricities. He died in 1958. The article mentions his lecture "The Spiritual Nature of Sussex" given to the Sussex Vegetarian Society in Brighton. Patrick Benham and Doreen Valiente are mentioned as having written about Forbes and his connection to Sussex.

The article also touches upon the work of Iris Campbell and Miss Olive Pixley, psychometrists who worked with Forbes, gathering material for his "antediluvian reconstructions." Their joint work was published in 1973. The author recalls an article from "The Ley Hunter" where he had a vision of lines spreading out before him, which he later connected to John Michell's book "The View over Atlantis." The friend with him at the time was John Foster Forbes. The article notes that Forbes's writings, though considered speculative, draw attention to the nature of prehistoric sites and encourage a new approach to the works of megalith builders.

Megalithic Holidays by Chris Ashton

This article explores Portugal as a destination for those interested in megalithic sites, contrasting it with the mainstream of conventional ideas and aligning with E.M. Schumacher's "small is beautiful" concept. It suggests that smaller European countries like Portugal, Ireland, Greece, and Malta retain their traditional cultures and ancient, sacred sites, fostering a living link with tradition and the 'perennial'. This connection to nature and the eternal is presented as a form of civilization, contrasting with the spiritual wasteland of consumer-oriented societies. Portugal is described as a place where one can experience 'megalithomania'.

The article highlights Portugal's affordability, noting that in 1981, dinner and wine cost £2 per person, and a double room with breakfast was £5 per night. Public transport, including taxis, is also cheap. The main expense is travel to Portugal. For visiting megalithic sites, the article suggests using a private car, a rented car (though availability can be an issue), or taxis. It recommends obtaining topographical maps from the "INSTITUTO GEOGRAPHICO E CADASTRAL, LISBON." The area around Evora is recommended for exploration, with sites accessible by bus and taxi. Evora itself is an old walled town with a Roman temple. The article mentions the 'Cromlech at Xarez, Portugal' as a screenprint by Chris Castle, dated 1982, priced at £60.

Several specific sites are detailed:

• Dolmen/Chapel near San Brissos: Described as the best example of a dolmen turned chapel, with a distinctive shape and an enclosing wall. It is located about 20 minutes from Evora by car.
• Passage and Chambered Tomb near Valverde: Located about a mile north of Valverde (SSW of Evora), this site features a large mound of earth and a chamber formed by stones leaning together to create a roof with an opening to the sky. It is accessible via dirt tracks.
• Stone Rectangle near Reguengos de Monsaraz: This is presented as a unique structure, possibly the first to be written about in a British publication. It features a large central stone and sides of varying lengths. The site is located about 200 yards off the main road from Reguengos de Monsaraz to Mourao. The fortified village of Monsaraz is nearby and considered a potential area for further research.
• Standing Stone with Inscriptions: Found in the fields between Reguengos de Monsaraz and Monsaraz, about a mile or two before the road climbs to the town. Access is recommended by taxi.

The article notes that pinpointing megalithic sites in Portugal can be difficult, with museum maps offering only broad indications. However, it concludes by stating that the Portuguese people are generally helpful in guiding visitors to the 'menhirs'.

Other Mentions

• Tantra Designs: Offers a catalogue of badges, imagery, posters, cards, statues, T-shirts, and handicrafts, with designs related to Earth Mysteries, Red Indians, Tantra, Celtic, and other themes.
• Schumann Resonance: Mentioned in relation to the frequency of the terrestrial globe and its connection to the Alpha brain rhythm.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes an open-minded approach to earth mysteries, encouraging individual thought and freedom from dogma. It values authentic experiences and a connection with nature, contrasting this with what it perceives as the restrictive or dogmatic aspects of some New Age groups. The publication champions the exploration of ancient sites, ley lines, and geomancy, viewing these as keys to understanding deeper realities and the history of human consciousness. There is a clear emphasis on the spiritual and energetic aspects of the landscape and human experience, advocating for a holistic understanding of the world.

This is the "SPECIAL FALKLANDS ISSUE" of "THE DEACRALISED COSMOS", published by QUICKSILVER PRESS, with Nigel Pennick listed as the director of IGR. The issue is dated 1982 and appears to be Volume 1.

Contents and Articles

Publisher's Information and Related Publications

• The issue begins by listing publications directed by Nigel Pennick, including:
• THE TEMPLAR: Dedicated to the study of round churches, priced at £3.25 for 4 issues.
• THE WALRUS: The official organ of the nonmaterial world, priced at £2.25 for 3 issues, highly recommended.
• BUNKERS UNDER LONDON: A result of years of investigation into government secrecy, contingency planning, town planning, and official media, priced at £0.95p.
• VINTANA: "Geomancy and Astrology in Madagascar", a recommended read for geomants, priced at £0.85p.
• EIGHT AND NINE: By Prudence Jones, about "sacred numbers of Sun and Moon in the pagan north", priced at £0.80p.

These publications are available from 142 Pheasant Rise, Bar Hill, Cambridge CB3 8SD.

Exchange Listings

• The issue also provides exchange listings for other publications:
• The Ley Hunter: Editor Paul Devereux, PO Box 13, Welshpool, Powys, Wales. Subscription: £3.75 for 3 issues.
• Ancient Skills and Wisdom Review: Editor Paul Screeton, 5 Egton Drive, Seaton Carew, Hartlepool, Cleveland. Subscription: £2.00 per annum.
• Caerdroia: Editor Jeff Saward, 53 Thundersley Grove, Thundersley, Benfleet, Essex. Subscription: £3.00 for 4 issues. A book, "The Book of British Troy Towns", is available for £0.75p from Caerdroia.

Editorial Content

The main editorial content of the issue appears to be an exploration of "The Deacralised Cosmos" and related themes, with a strong focus on Earth Mysteries, geomancy, and the impact of rectilinear planning on human society and psychology. The text delves into the historical and philosophical implications of structured landscapes and their effect on human consciousness.

The Rectangular Survey and its Impact

The issue discusses how the Rectangular Survey, particularly in the United States, shaped American cosmologies. It highlights "Centerville" as a symbolic representation of "Middle America" and a geomantic psychic omphalos. The implementation of this survey, where central locations were prioritized, led to towns being laid out with a rectilinear grid pattern, ideal for cars but potentially detrimental to sensitive individuals. The "tyranny of the rectilinear ruler approach" is criticized for subordinating everything to the straight line, leading to landscapes that negatively affect inhabitants. The text draws parallels with Igor Stravinsky's description of "filing cabinet architecture" and Piet Mondrian's vision of a future devoid of nature.

Babylon and the Loss of Harmony

The concept of "Babylon" is used to describe a desacralized, rectilinear cosmos characterized by alienation, dissolution, and hopelessness. The issue contrasts this with ancient geomantic practices in the East, where harmonious environments were considered essential for a harmonious society. It argues that towns planned by officials, without regard for the earth's subtle balance, become "hotbeds of violent disaffection." This process is seen as having spread from the United States to European cities, mirroring the desacralization of conquered lands.

The Tyranny of the Straight Line

The article criticizes the "excessive breadth and straightness of the gashed streets" in modern towns, which offer no escape from the elements and make even small shops appear mean. It suggests that in these desacralized environments, main virtues are hard work, silence, and obedience, leading to a phenomenon where towns laid out by government order experience the worst excesses of violence. The United States is cited as an example, with high rates of violent crime.

Ancient Systems and Modern Derision

The text touches upon ancient systems where days were sacred to astrological planets, influencing daily activities. It mentions Emperor Akbar of India and Queen Ranavalona of Madagascar, who lived according to astrological and geomantic principles. Today, such ideas are often dismissed as "superstitious," and racist assumptions are made, while the underlying astro-geomantic reasons for practices like Sunday observance are ignored.

The "Earth Lights" Book and Paul Devereux Interview

A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to an interview with Paul Devereux, editor of "The Ley Hunter" and initiator of "The Dragon Project." Devereux discusses his personal experience with a UFO sighting in 1967, which sparked his interest in Earth Mysteries. He highlights the difficulties in reconciling the scientific with the mystical and warns against extremist politics influencing the subject. He also mentions his upcoming book, "Earth Lights," co-authored with Paul McCartney, which proposes that UFOs are geophysically produced pockets of energy responsive to mental cues, essentially "planetary ectoplasm."

Devereux explains his research into "ley lines" and the statistical analysis required to validate them. He discusses the challenges of conducting research with limited resources and the ongoing dialogue between scientists and enthusiasts. He emphasizes the importance of a "middle ground" approach, balancing analytical and intuitive thinking, as exemplified by "The Dragon Project."

The Dangers of Misused Research

Devereux expresses concern that Earth Mysteries research could be misused to fuel a new sort of fascism, particularly in the current political climate. He warns of the potential for such knowledge to be dogmatically applied, leading to its repression. He notes the rise of a right-wing society in Britain and the influence of the press in shaping public opinion, drawing parallels to the mood that contributed to Nazi Germany.

The Dragon Project and Synthesis

Devereux elaborates on the importance of "The Dragon Project" in synthesizing various approaches to Earth Mysteries, including folklore, dowsing, mysticism, and scientific data. He stresses the need to balance the analytical and intuitive functions of the mind, stating, "Too much science and too much intuition both lead into error."

Dowsing and Anomalous Phenomena

The interview also covers dowsing, with Devereux noting the cocksure nature of many dowsers and the contradictions in their findings regarding earth energies. He mentions ongoing research into geiger anomalies and the potential connection between unusual energy spots on the Earth's surface and phenomena like UFOs, suggesting that these might be unusual arrangements of known energies recognized by ancient peoples.

Book Reviews

• The issue includes reviews of two books:
• MEGALITHOMANIA by John Michell (Thames and Hudson, 1982): Praised for its magnificent pictures and Michell's informative, precise, and entertaining writing style, though the author's bias against barrow excavators is noted.
• GLASTONBURY: maker of myths by Francis Howard-Gordon (Gothic Image, 1982): Described as a successful guide book with outstanding color photographs, but its price is considered high for its page count.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are Earth Mysteries, geomancy, the impact of rectilinear planning on society, the potential for misuse of esoteric knowledge, and the importance of synthesizing scientific and intuitive approaches to understanding the world. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry into modern societal structures, advocating for a rediscovery of ancient wisdom and a balanced approach to knowledge, while also expressing concern about the rise of dogmatic ideologies and their potential to suppress such research.

Title: Quick Silver Messenger
Issue: 21
Date: Not specified
Document Type: Magazine Issue
Cover Headline: The Dragon Project is getting closer to the secret of the earth, the grail.

The Dragon Project and Earth Mysteries

The issue opens with a discussion on the 'Dragon Project,' a theory proposing that UFOs originate from Earth, particularly linking them to geological phenomena and megaliths. Paul McCartney and P.D. (presumably the interviewer) discuss the unique geological significance of the British Isles as a laboratory for this research, noting the high concentration of megaliths and stone circles. They highlight the importance of correcting the 'population distortion factor' when analyzing UFO sightings, explaining that sightings in less populated areas are more valuable.

The discussion touches upon the work of Persinger and Lfrenier, whose theories on UFO mechanisms are considered less rigorous than those proposed by the Dragon Project. A key point of contention is the 'abduction' phenomenon. While P.D. believes abduction cases might be religious experiences or lies, Paul McCartney suggests that if abductions are real, it might point to a different phenomenon altogether, distinct from the 'earth lights' theory.

The book 'EARTH LIGHTS' is presented as a synthesis of UFOlogical study and the study of megaliths, aiming to provide a more meaningful and objective understanding. A controversial theory within the book suggests an interaction between 'earth light' energy packets and the human mind, where the human mind can affect this energy.

Book Reviews

Hitler's Secret Sciences by Nigel Pennick

Reviewed by Chris Ashton, this book is praised for its depth of scholarship and unorthodox view of occult subjects, particularly concerning the Nazis' involvement with the occult. It explores how Nazi cosmology drew from occult beliefs and secret societies, linking them to ideas of an 'all-pervading energy' for world domination. The review notes the book's lack of an index but highlights its value as a reminder of the dangers of perverted nationalism.

Prehistoric Cornwall: The Ceremonial Monuments by John Barnatt

This review, also by Chris Ashton, is highly critical, labeling the book as propaganda that inaccurately dismisses Professor Thom's findings on megaliths. The reviewer accuses Barnatt of subjective interpretation, lacking evidence, and promoting a 'fascist core' of academe. Barnatt's views on stone circles, geomancy, and leys are strongly refuted.

Masks of the Illuminati by Robert Anton Wilson

Reviewed by Chris Ashton, this novel is lauded for its ability to maintain reader enthusiasm. The book is described as a conspiracy theory narrative in a gothic horror and science fiction style, focusing on self-knowledge. It follows an English aristocrat's journey into cabbalistic knowledge, encountering figures like C.G. Jung, Albert Einstein, and James Joyce. The reviewer praises its blend of fact and fantasy, calling it thought-provoking and entertaining.

The Life of Nikola Tesla by John J. O'Niel

Chris Ashton reviews this biography, portraying Tesla as an unsung hero of the technological revolution, particularly for his work on alternating current. The book highlights Tesla's extraordinary mental abilities, including eidetic memory and visualization, which allowed him to develop complex inventions in his mind. It suggests that many of his inventions were lost after his death due to his lack of detailed plans. The review notes Tesla's dedication to technology over personal life and his unique relationship with pigeons. It concludes that Tesla is presented as a misunderstood genius.

The Origins of Britain by Lloyd and Jennifer Laing

Chris Ashton reviews this book, which presents an account of Britain's occupation from the Palaeolithic to the Bronze Age by establishment archaeologists. While acknowledging its useful information, the review criticizes the book for misrepresentations, particularly regarding Alfred Watkins and the ideas in 'earth mysteries' books. The reviewer points out a lack of scientific rigor in the authors' approach and criticizes their interpretation of findings, such as the inscription at Maes Howe.

Letters

Several letters address various topics:

• John Palmer from Holland objects to a remark about Maltese statues being deliberately beheaded, asserting that the artist was correct and that the heads were sometimes articulated. He invites the reviewer to an exhibition.
• Chris Hall is researching a book on UK mystery cats and seeks information on 'no quibble' leys in the West Surrey/NE Hampshire region for correlation. He also appeals for information on mystery cat sightings.
• Jim Kimmis discusses the Hove mound and its potential connection to spring festivals and Grail/Wasteland symbolism. He inquires about the orientation of the Hove line and its equinoctial date. He also congratulates the magazine on an interview with John Michell and hopes for more philosophical discussions on earth mysteries.
• Bob Rickard of 'Fortean Times' congratulates the magazine on an interview and shares an anecdote about a toad found imprisoned in a flint nodule near Lewes, relating it to research for his upcoming book.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores themes of Earth Mysteries, Ufology, ancient history, archaeology, and conspiracy theories. There's a strong emphasis on challenging mainstream academic views and presenting alternative perspectives, particularly concerning megalithic sites, UFO phenomena, and historical occultism. The editorial stance appears to favor in-depth research, critical analysis of established narratives, and the synthesis of seemingly disparate fields like geology, archaeology, and ufology. The magazine also seems to value intellectual curiosity and the exploration of consciousness and perception.