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La Revue des Soucoupes Volantes - No 2 - 1977
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Title: La Revue des Soucoupes Volantes Issue: N° 2 Date: September-October 1977 Publisher: Michel Moutet Editeur Price: 9,50 F
Magazine Overview
Title: La Revue des Soucoupes Volantes
Issue: N° 2
Date: September-October 1977
Publisher: Michel Moutet Editeur
Price: 9,50 F
This issue of *La Revue des Soucoupes Volantes* delves into a variety of topics related to ufology, the paranormal, and science fiction, with a central theme exploring the extraterrestrial origins of humanity.
Editorial
The editorial discusses the preference for the term "Soucoupe Volante" (Flying Saucer) over "OVNI" (UFO), while acknowledging that the magazine will cover a broader spectrum of phenomena, including those that are not strictly identified flying objects, such as "extra-terrestrials" and "invisible objects." It highlights the magazine's commitment to informing readers about identified flying objects as well as those that may not be easily explained, and phenomena that suggest the action of forces or intelligences superior to humans.
Featured Articles and Content
Nous Sommes Tous d'Essence Extra-Terrestre
This article, by Michel Granger, supports the hypothesis that humanity originates from a union between indigenous anthropoids and "thinking creatures from the Sky." It references two previous books by the author, "Terriens ou extra-terrestres?" (1973) and "Extra-terrestres en exil!" (1975), and suggests that three positions taken by renowned scientists indicate this idea is gaining traction, potentially leading to a re-evaluation of human prehistory.
#### La Planète Disparue
This section discusses the theory of a lost planet named Phaeton, which supposedly orbited our Sun and was destroyed by a thermonuclear explosion. Russian scientists, specializing in tektites, have analyzed mysterious glass-like spheres found on Earth, suggesting they originate from the asteroid belt and shed new light on Phaeton's mysteries. Professor Evgeni Krinov, head of the Soviet committee on meteorites, posits that these tektites, originating from the Karatum desert, are remnants of Phaeton. Professor Felix Zigel of the Moscow Aviation Institute believes the explosion was thermonuclear due to the intense heat required to create the tektites' forms. These particles have been found in various locations, including Peru, Australia, and Czechoslovakia, suggesting a pattern.
Du Côté de Chez Jung: HEPTA
This section features the second part of "OVNI and Inner Universes," titled "JAPANESE CONNECTION." It highlights the exclusive work of HEPTA researchers on this case, emphasizing their analysis and the potential for a profound religious conflict within the subject, "Jean."
Globe et Symbolique O.V.N.I.
Jean-Jacques Jaillat's article explores the symbolism of the cruciform sphere and its relation to the globe, drawing from Jungian theoretical schemas.
Entretien avec... Pierre Viéroudy
This section includes an interview with Pierre Viéroudy, likely discussing topics related to ufology, possibly referencing "Flying Saucer Review" and a press review by Marc Hallet.
Les Armées Fantômes
This article by G.A.B.R.I.E.L. discusses "The Mercenaries of Magonia," with an illustration by Éric Zurcher. It also references "The Appalling Signs Newly Appeared in the Air..." and "The Appalling Vision Appeared over the Abbey of Marmoustier..." with illustrations by Alain Billy and Patrick Gabrielli, respectively. The latter is also noted as the cover illustration.
Le Phénomène de Mimétisme Va-t-il à l'Encontre de l'Hypothèse Extra-Terrestre?
Éric Zurcher questions whether the phenomenon of mimicry contradicts the extraterrestrial hypothesis.
Les Extra-Terrestres Ont-ils Tué Joãa Prestes Filho?
Marc Hallet investigates this provocative question.
Un Être Étrange à Cagnes-sur-Mer
This is an investigation by the Centre de Recherches Ufologiques Niçois into a strange being sighted in Cagnes-sur-Mer.
La Chronique du Paranormal
Directed by Daniel Réju, this section includes an entry on "1663: Tremblement de Terre au Canada," detailing events from that period.
Book Reviews and Notices
Nous Avons Reçu: Revues
This section lists recent publications received, including "ASTROMÉTÉO," "Bulletin du Groupement Langeadois de Recherches Ufologiques," "OURANOS," "UFOLOGIA," "L'AUTRE MONDE," "APPROCHE," "COSMOS-MAGAZINE," and "KRUPTOS."
Livres (Voir aussi p.6)
- Le Masque/Fantastique: Review of Kurt Steiner's "Le masque des regrets."
- Fleuve Noir/Anticipation: Review of Robert Clauzel's "L'œuf d'antimatière."
- From the Author: Jacques de Saint-André's "Francs-Maçons et Templiers... La Fin d'une Malédiction?"
- Albin-Michel: Mention of Michel Granger and Jacques Carles' "des sous-dieux au surhomme (A la recherche de la bio-création artificielle de l'homme)."
Critiques (S.F.)
- Fleuve Noir: Reviews of Jimmy Guieu's "Les légions de Bartzouk" (described as "a bit 'easy'") and Gabriel Jan's "Les robots de Xaar" (noted for its classic theme of a mad computer).
- Fleuve Noir - Collection les lendemains retrouvés: This section highlights a special collection of reissued science fiction classics from Fleuve Noir, including Arthur C. Clarke's "Prélude à l'espace" and Richard-Bessière's "A l'assaut du ciel." It draws parallels between "A l'assaut du ciel" and the statements of an "HEPTA contactee."
- Collection Le Masque: Review of Théodore Sturgeon's "Les enfants de Sturgeon," an anthology praised for its rare poetic quality in the science fiction genre, focusing on children's experiences and adult incomprehension.
- Collection Le Masque: Review of Michel Demuth's "La clé des étoiles," a collection of short stories that plays with time and space but is described as having a rather sad atmosphere.
- Peter Randa: Review of "Les couloirs de translation," which explores the concept of "tree civilization" and its implications.
- Maurice Limat: Review of "La tour des nuages," where a strange compass leads the hero on an adventure.
- Daniel Piret: Review of "La mort des dieux," which explores the theme of civilizing gods in an original way.
La Chronique des O.V.N.I.
Michel Bougard's book is reviewed, focusing on its exploration of UFO phenomena predating Kenneth Arnold's famous sighting. The review notes the book's documentation of historical UFO cases and the reactions of authorities, contrasting early explanations like comets and meteors with later theories such as "secret invention."
Subscription Information
Subscription rates for "La Revue des Soucoupes Volantes" and "Les Cahiers du Réalisme Fantastique" are provided for France, Europe, America, and Asia, with options for surface and air mail. A privileged rate is offered for subscriptions to "La Revue des Soucoupes Volantes" until October 31, 1977.
G.A.B.R.I.E.L. - Les Soucoupes Volantes: le grand refus?
This section announces a forthcoming 500-page book by G.A.B.R.I.E.L. titled "Les Soucoupes Volantes: le grand refus?" It is described as a discursive encyclopedia of the phenomenon and is available for pre-order at a subscription price of 65 F, with a recommended retail price of 90 F.
Les Journées de l'Amitié en Ardèche - Imbours, 11-12 Juin 1977
This report details a successful gathering of ufological groups in Imbours, Ardèche. The event featured presentations from various organizations, including ADEPS, AAMT, CSERU, VERONICA, GRIPHOM, GLRU, GREPO, and CRUN. Highlights included an audio-visual presentation on UFOs by AAMT, a file of UFO sightings in France compiled by AAMT, research on ancient UFO documents by CSERU, and studies on landing patterns, detection equipment, and humanoid sightings by other groups. The report emphasizes the spirit of cooperation and friendship fostered at the event.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The magazine consistently explores the UFO phenomenon, extraterrestrial hypotheses, and related anomalous events. It maintains an open-minded approach, welcoming diverse perspectives and research methodologies, as evidenced by its coverage of both scientific and esoteric viewpoints. The editorial stance appears to favor detailed investigation and open discussion of these complex subjects, encouraging a broad understanding of the paranormal and its potential implications for human history and understanding.
This issue of the magazine, titled "FLYING SAUCER REVIEW," published in April 1977, features a cover story titled "JAPANESE CONNECTION" and includes articles on UFO phenomena, ancient astronaut theories, and the psychological aspects of encounters. The cover itself displays a bust of Socrates alongside abstract imagery and the title.
Articles and Content
The Phaeton Hypothesis and Extraterrestrial Refugees
The issue begins by discussing the theory of Professor Aleksander Kazantsev, who posits that the planet Phaeton was destroyed by a massive explosion, leading its nuclear-armed civilization to send cosmonauts to Earth as refugees. Doctor John O'Keefe of NASA finds this theory plausible, while British Doctor Jonathan Westland suggests that Phaeton was inhabited by beings of superior intelligence who explored the cosmos and engaged in wars, resulting in their need to seek refuge on Earth.
Artificial Insemination: Sitchin's Controversial Theory
Zacharian Sitchin is presented as a scholar who, based on ancient tablets, believes humanity originated from artificial insemination by extraterrestrials who arrived on Earth 450,000 years ago. According to Sitchin, these beings were not refugees but invaders seeking gold. He claims to have translated cuneiform writings indicating that these extraterrestrials, upon arriving during Earth's glacial period, found Mesopotamia to be an ideal implantation site. Their spacecraft deposited beings, and stations remained in orbit. Ancient tablets reportedly show sketches of these astronauts and their flying machines, which also appear in Sumerian and Babylonian pictographs. Sitchin's theory suggests that a mutant being, created artificially for slavery, was the ancestor of humanity, with females of the species uniting directly with the extraterrestrials.
The 'Missing Link' and Celestial Origins
Sitchin's theories challenge Darwin's concept of the 'missing link,' suggesting that the evolutionary link is not found underground but in the heavens. The article notes that Sitchin's thesis will be further detailed in his upcoming book, "The 12th Planet."
UFOs and the Human Psyche: A Symbolic Connection
Jean-Jacques Jaillat contributes an article exploring the idea that UFO phenomena are intrinsically linked to the witness's psyche. He argues that the observer's mind is an active participant in the phenomenon, citing studies that suggest an internal relationship between UFOs and human psychism. Jaillat examines specific cases, such as an encounter in Tossa de Mar, Spain, where witnesses saw a circular object and a tall figure holding a sphere, and a similar event in Villa Carlos Paz, Argentina, involving a humanoid with luminous hands holding a sphere. He also references a 1954 sighting in Sainte-Marie d'Herblay, France, where a boy observed a cigar-shaped object and a man holding a ball of light. Jaillat highlights the recurring detail of figures holding a globe or sphere, noting its presence in art, religious iconography, and alchemical manuscripts, linking it to universal symbolism and the archetype of totality.
He further discusses the significance of the globe being held in the left hand, which symbolizes the unconscious, instinctual, and creative forces, contrasting with the right hand representing intellect and reason. This symbolism, he suggests, is necessary for psychological balance and the attainment of the 'Self.'
Contactee Experiences: Jean Irwing Ludwang's Narrative
The issue features a detailed account from a contactee named Jean, who recounts an extraordinary experience in Hokkaido, Japan, in 1970. Guided by an entity identified as 'Yahvé,' Jean meets his 'brother,' Jean Irwing Ludwang, and two other beings identified as Jesus and Moses. Jean describes being taken aboard a vessel, receiving an intravenous injection, and interacting with these beings. Ludwang, claiming to be 7280 years old, explains that he is the 'last cycle's Messiah,' and that powers are passed down through a lineage of divine beings, including Jesus and Moses. They discuss the nature of life, the universe, and the role of humans. The narrative also touches upon the concept of 'divine justice' and the 'Law' that governs life and death.
Flying Saucer Review: A Press Review
Marc Hallet provides a review of the April 1977 issue of "Flying Saucer Review." He discusses an editorial on the impact of inflation on the magazine's production, an article about a UFO sighting involving an object creating a funnel in the sea, and a piece exploring the correlation between UFOs and animal mutilations. The review also touches upon a study of 'psychic contactees' and a discussion of the Adamski case, including controversies surrounding his financial gains from his stories. Hallet critiques the ongoing polemics surrounding Adamski, stating that they do not advance the truth. He also mentions an article by Jérôme Clark debunking the 1897 Hamilton case as a hoax. The review concludes by quoting Descartes on the importance of avoiding hasty judgments and embracing clear and distinct truths, suggesting that many ufologists build their theories on shaky foundations.
Interview with Pierre Viéroudy
An interview with ufologist Pierre Viéroudy reveals his personal journey into the field, starting with an interest in astronomy and the possibility of extraterrestrial life. He explains that his research began in earnest in 1973-74, focusing on the 'inter-relation' between the witness and the UFO phenomenon. Viéroudy suggests that the human mind plays a part in the manifestation of UFOs, citing an example of a witness who saw and photographed a UFO after wanting to do so, and who possessed psychic abilities. He believes that the UFO phenomenon in his area seemed to manifest according to his own hypotheses, indicating that the researcher might influence the phenomenon.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The issue consistently explores the intersection of UFO phenomena with ancient civilizations, extraterrestrial intervention in human origins, and the symbolic or psychological dimensions of these encounters. There is a clear editorial stance favoring the exploration of unconventional theories, such as those proposed by Sitchin and Kazantsev, and emphasizing the importance of the witness's subjective experience and psychological state in understanding UFO events. The magazine appears to challenge mainstream scientific explanations and encourages readers to consider a broader, more symbolic, and potentially spiritual interpretation of these phenomena.
This issue of "Les Mercenaires" explores the historical roots of UFO phenomena, drawing parallels between modern sightings and accounts of 'phantom armies' and 'celestial visions' dating back to the 17th century. The magazine posits that the concept of UFOs is not new and has ancient origins, with historical records offering strange interpretations that could be considered early UFO testimonies.
The 'Phantom Armies' of Angoumois and Beyond
The article begins by addressing the common perception of UFOs as 'flying luminous objects' and notes that the phenomenon is much older than commonly believed, with historical documents from various eras and civilizations containing strange accounts. It suggests that UFOs are a particular aspect of something much larger and possibly non-human.
A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to a detailed account from 1608 in Angoumois, France, transcribed from the archives of Pierre Robert. This chronicle describes the appearance of a vast 'phantom army' of 10,000 to 12,000 soldiers, clad in blue armor, marching in formation with drums, led by a distinguished figure. The army descended from the sky, marched across the land, and then disappeared into a forest, rising above the trees. This event caused alarm among the local peasantry and nobility, who gathered to witness the spectacle.
Further historical accounts are presented from the early 17th century, including a remarkable event in August 1608 at the Sea of Genoa, where 'horrible signs' were observed, including human-like figures with scaly arms holding serpents, and three chariots pulled by dragon-like figures. Attempts to disperse these phenomena with cannon fire were unsuccessful. Other sightings from the same period include aerial combat between two men in Martigues, and a large, luminous star appearing over Montpellier, accompanied by fiery lances and luminous torches.
A later account from March 14, 1654, in Basse-Marche, France, describes armies fighting in the sky and a significant fall of earth between villages, introducing the concept of physical trace evidence associated with these aerial phenomena.
Characteristics of UFO Phenomena
The article then shifts to analyze the characteristics of UFO phenomena, arguing that the term 'UFO' is somewhat imprecise. It identifies four key characteristics that help researchers identify such manifestations:
1. Incomprehensible Materialization: Witnesses rarely see the beginning of a UFO event, often discovering the phenomenon already in progress. When the onset is observed, it frequently involves mechanisms that defy understanding, such as appearing suddenly from nothing or transitioning from a diffuse, non-material state to a solid one capable of leaving physical traces.
2. Impossible Performances: This refers to the capabilities of UFOs and their occupants that exceed the known laws of physics, such as aerial displacement that appears to be a form of 'levitation'. Several historical examples of such flights are cited.
3. Absurd Behaviors: The actions of UFO occupants can appear illogical or nonsensical to observers. Examples include 'Martians' explaining agricultural problems on Mars to a farmer, or the vast deployment of thousands of soldiers for a battle against an inexistent enemy, as seen in the Angoumois 'phantom army' case.
4. Inexplicable Disappearances: UFOs often exhibit a form of 'escamotage' or vanishing act. They may disappear behind natural obstacles, and even when the obstacle is bypassed, the phenomenon is not found where expected, suggesting a complete and sudden disappearance.
Historical Parallels and Specific Cases
The article argues that the Angoumois 'phantom army' fits perfectly within the framework of UFO manifestations due to these characteristics. It then presents another historical case from World War I, involving Miss Campbell, a nurse who heard numerous accounts from wounded soldiers about an apparition on the battlefield near Mons on August 28, 1914. This apparition, described as a knight in armor on a white horse, caused German cavalry to retreat. The investigation by Miss Campbell and later confirmation from a German nurse revealed that German soldiers also witnessed this extraordinary event, including an officer who described a giant knight on a white horse appearing from a cloud.
This case is highlighted for its exceptional number and quality of witnesses, and the perfect concordance of testimonies, which rules out hallucination. The anachronism of the figure and its materialization from a cloud are noted as significant parallels to the 17th-century 'phantom army' phenomenon.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The issue concludes by posing questions about why, in certain historical periods, populations tended to observe 'celestial armies' and why the UFO phenomenon (referred to as 'X') manifested in the form of these armies. The editorial stance seems to be that historical accounts of 'phantom armies' are early manifestations of what we now call UFOs, sharing common characteristics and suggesting a continuity of anomalous aerial phenomena throughout history. The magazine aims to demonstrate that these are not mere delusions but recurring events with specific patterns, challenging the modern scientific skepticism towards such phenomena.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The recurring themes in this issue are the historical continuity of anomalous aerial phenomena, the comparison of 17th-century 'phantom armies' with modern UFO sightings, and the analysis of common characteristics across these events. The editorial stance is that historical accounts provide compelling evidence for phenomena that predate the modern concept of UFOs, suggesting a non-human or unknown origin for these manifestations. The magazine challenges the notion that such events are solely products of imagination or mass hallucination, emphasizing the detailed and consistent nature of witness testimonies across centuries.
This issue of "Les Extra-terrestres" (The Extraterrestrials) delves into complex aspects of ufology, focusing on the concept of mimicry in UFO phenomena and exploring specific cases and theories. The magazine presents a blend of investigative reporting, symbolic interpretation, and interviews with researchers.
Mimicry and the Extraterrestrial Hypothesis
The lead article, "LE PHENOMENE DE MIMETISME VA-T-IL A L'ENCONTRE DE L'HYPOTHESE EXTRA-TERRESTRE ?" (Is the Phenomenon of Mimicry Against the Extraterrestrial Hypothesis?), explores how UFO manifestations seem to adapt to the beliefs, fears, and desires of the populations witnessing them. The author posits that UFOs might be acting as a regulatory system for humanity, potentially influencing our collective unconscious, citing Jacques Vallée's opinion that an external force is at play.
The article categorizes mimicry into several forms:
1. Imitation of known celestial objects: Such as the moon, balloons, or meteors.
2. Imitation of terrestrial technology: Including historical accounts of 'airships' from the Middle Ages and Renaissance, 'phantom planes' from the 1930s, and modern 'fake trains' and 'fake planes'.
3. Psychic Mimicry: This is presented as the most perplexing form, where the observed phenomena reflect the witness's psychological state, profession, or cultural background.
Two cases are highlighted as prototypes: the "Salles-de-Villefagnan" affair (1974), where a UFO's lights mimicked SNCF semaphores, and the "Feignies" case (1974), where the observed scene was linked to the witnesses' preoccupations. The article raises the question of whether the UFO phenomenon is entirely mimetic and discusses how these observations lead some researchers to reject the extraterrestrial hypothesis in favor of others.
It also touches upon the idea that the intelligence behind UFOs might be capable of influencing human consciousness, potentially through direct contact with the witness's brain. The concept of a self-regulating system linked to collective unconsciousness is proposed, complementing Jacques Vallée's 'control system' theory. The majority of scientific ufologists, however, remain skeptical, favoring the extraterrestrial hypothesis as the primary explanation.
Symbolic Interpretations: Adam and Eve
The section "PRÉCIEUSE SYMBOLIQUE..." (Precious Symbolism...) by Marc Hallet examines the symbolic interpretations of Adam and Eve. It connects the name 'Adam' to the Egyptian 'Tem' or 'Atom', and to the Greek 'Andros'. The article analyzes the symbolism of Saint Andrew's cross and its relation to the Earth's axial tilt, suggesting that 'Adam' represents the terrestrial man. The myth of Eve is discussed in relation to theories of an original androgynous being, with the author clarifying that 'Hawa' (Eve) means 'life' and 'Ti' (rib) means 'to give life' in Sumerian, dismissing complex interpretations as mere wordplay.
The Case of Joâa Prestes Filho
A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the case of Joâa Prestes Filho, titled "Les Extra-terrestres ont-ils Tué Joãa Prestes Filho ?" (Did Extraterrestrials Kill Joâa Prestes Filho?). The article details an event in 1946 where Joâa Prestes Filho reported being illuminated by a silent beam of light. Shortly after, his body began to decompose rapidly, with his flesh falling off as if cooked. Despite initial investigations and reports by ufologists like Professor Felipe Machado Carrion and Jader U. Pereira, who leaned towards an extraterrestrial explanation, the case remained controversial.
In 1974, ufologist M. Consolin sent M. Fouéré a passage from a 1963-65 science fiction novel describing a man's disintegration due to a toxic enzyme, suggesting the Joâa Prestes Filho story might have been fabricated from this novel. However, the article argues against this, noting the lack of bloody disintegration and the unique nature of the event.
Dr. Walter Bühler, a respected Brazilian ufologist, investigated the case and concluded that Joâa Prestes Filho's death was not related to flying saucers but was caused by his cotton shirt catching fire. This explanation is presented as highly improbable and contradictory to witness testimonies and the observed symptoms.
The article critically analyzes the ufologists' conclusions, particularly M. Fouéré's, who initially linked the event to an unknown extraterrestrial ray. The author argues that the description of a 'silent beam of light' is insufficient evidence for a UFO and that Joâa's death, while unusual, might be explained by natural phenomena.
Drawing on historical accounts from J. Rambosson and Camille Flammarion, the article strongly suggests that Joâa Prestes Filho's death could be attributed to lightning. The rapid decomposition, the lack of suffering, and the description of the body's state are consistent with cases of death by lightning, which can cause severe nervous system damage and rapid putrefaction.
The author criticizes the tendency of some ufologists to attribute any unexplained event to UFOs, arguing that a lack of knowledge about natural phenomena can lead to premature conclusions. The case of Joâa Prestes Filho is presented as an example where an extraterrestrial explanation was favored over a more plausible natural cause.
Interview with Pierre Viéroudy
An interview with Pierre Viéroudy, titled "ENTRETIEN AVEC PIERRE VIÉROUDY", discusses his experiments in attempting to provoke UFO phenomena through concentration and thought. Viéroudy claims to have achieved a 60-70% success rate in making UFOs appear at specific times and locations, often observing them as mimetic and 'fearful' entities.
He describes his scientific approach, using a spectrograph to analyze the light emitted by these phenomena, confirming they are not hallucinations. Viéroudy suggests that these UFOs might be 'bio-plasmic materializations' rather than structured craft. He believes his work is contributing to the reproducibility of UFO phenomena, a key goal for scientific research.
An Unusual Being in Cagnes/Mer
The article "Un être étrange à Cagnes / Mer" (A Strange Being in Cagnes/Mer) recounts the testimony of M. Pierre Cavallo, a 74-year-old man who, in May 1953 or 1954, witnessed a bright, orange, cigar-shaped object with blue 'sequins' moving silently. Shortly after, he encountered a pale, bald-headed humanoid with blue eyes. The article notes the possible temporal distortion associated with UFO encounters, as suggested by Charles Bowen.
It also explores the possibility of the UFO discreetly disembarking beings, referencing a similar incident in Libaros/Sentous in 1964. The article categorizes the observed humanoid as a 'Type 2.VI' being, characterized by small stature and a fearful, non-aggressive demeanor, common in many humanoid sightings worldwide.
Analysis of a Contact Experience
Another section analyzes a reported 'contact' experience where an individual claims to have been taken aboard a UFO, experienced a ladder descending, and was given five divine powers. The analysis focuses on the physical sensations (metallic texture, ozone smell) and the reported transformation of the individual. The author draws parallels between these reported phenomena and 'ectoplasm' produced by mediums, citing studies by Kluski and Dr. Geley, and François Favre's observations on ectoplasm's physical and psychological aspects.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the nature of UFO phenomena, questioning whether they are extraterrestrial in origin, psychological projections, or manifestations of unknown natural forces. The magazine appears to favor a critical and analytical approach, dissecting various cases and theories, and often presenting alternative explanations to the more sensationalist claims. There is a clear emphasis on scientific investigation and a skepticism towards unsubstantiated hypotheses, while still acknowledging the mystery and complexity of UFO sightings. The editorial stance seems to be one of open inquiry, encouraging readers to consider multiple perspectives and to rely on reasoned analysis rather than blind belief.
Title: Les Cahiers du Réalisme Fantastique
Issue: Number 2
Publication Date: 3rd trimester 1977
Publisher: MICHEL MOUTET EDITEUR
Content Focus: This issue delves into a variety of esoteric, paranormal, and historical topics, including ufology, ancient cults, psychological interpretations of experiences, and historical accounts of unusual phenomena.
Articles and Content
The Mithraic Cult and the Apocalypse
The issue begins with an in-depth analysis comparing the cult of Mithra with the prophecies of the Apocalypse. The text draws parallels between the divine figures, rituals, and symbolism of both traditions. It explores the concept of the solar hero, the sacrifice of the animal (symbolizing the hero or nature), and the idea of spiritual rebirth and immortality. The analysis delves into psychological interpretations, referencing C.G. Jung's theories on archetypes, colors representing psychological functions (thought, sentiment, intuition, sensation), and the concept of the 'union of opposites' as a path to psychic energy renewal. The subject's experience is framed as an identification with the Messianic archetype, a 'divine man' figure who overcomes evil and death, akin to the Christ of the Apocalypse. The text highlights the symbolic connection between Mithraic imagery and the visions described in the Book of Revelation, particularly the description of the Son of Man with the seven golden candlesticks.
The 1663 Earthquake in Canada
A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to a detailed account of the 1663 earthquake that struck Canada. The narrative, attributed to Father Charlevoix, describes the terrifying events, including precursor phenomena such as aerial lights ('globes of fire') and strange sounds. The earthquake itself is depicted as a cataclysmic event, with descriptions of the ground shaking violently, buildings collapsing, trees uprooting, and rivers changing course or drying up. The text also notes unusual phenomena like red and yellow waters, spectral figures in the air, and strange sounds from marine animals. Despite the immense destruction and the duration of the event (over six months), the account emphasizes the miraculous absence of fatalities, attributing it to divine intervention for the conversion of sinners.
Psychological Interpretations of Experiences
The magazine explores the psychological underpinnings of extraordinary experiences. It discusses how the unconscious mind compensates for conscious attitudes, leading to a profusion of images that can be inverse to the individual's conscious state. The concept of archetypes is presented as a response to psychological distress, providing models from collective memory. The idea of the 'union of opposites' is revisited as a means of achieving a higher state of consciousness and individuation, leading to a harmonious integration of light and shadow within the individual.
UFOs and Paranormal Research
Several sections are dedicated to UFO phenomena and paranormal research. The association "Aux Frontières de l'Étrange" is introduced, aiming to investigate mysterious events and share experiences. The "Centre de Recherches Ufologiques Niçois (C.R.U.N.)" seeks individuals interested in UFOs in the Alpes-Maritimes and Alpes de Haute-Provence regions. The "Groupement de Recherche et d'Étude du Phénomène O.V.N.I. (G.R.E.P.O.)" is presented as a representative for various UFO research organizations in France. An article also touches upon the idea that modern scientific maps might not be definitive, referencing a discovery of previously unmapped mountain ranges during a Sahara crossing.
Book Reviews and Advertisements
The issue includes a review of Daniel Massé's book "L'Enigme de Jésus-Christ-Jean-Baptiste et Jean," which presents a controversial thesis about Jesus. It also features advertisements for back issues of "Planète" and "Janus" magazines, as well as a section for "Petites Annonces" (Small Ads) and a listing for a book titled "VIVE LA POLLUTION" by Alain Billy, with a preface by Alain Bombard.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
Les Cahiers du Réalisme Fantastique consistently explores the intersection of the paranormal, the psychological, and the historical. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into phenomena that lie beyond conventional scientific understanding, often seeking symbolic and archetypal interpretations. There is a strong emphasis on the power of the unconscious, the significance of ancient myths and religious texts, and the potential for extraordinary experiences to lead to personal transformation. The magazine encourages readers to question established norms and to explore the unknown aspects of reality.