The Shaman - No 04 - 1984

Magazine Overview

Title: THE SHAMAN
Issue: No. 4
Year: 1984
Publisher: Paul Screeton
Country: United Kingdom
ISSN: 0140 9522

This issue of THE SHAMAN, incorporating "ANCIENT SKILLS AND WISDOM REVIEW" and "TERRESTRIAL ZODIACS NEWSLETTER", delves into the controversial topic of ley lines and their intersection with archaeology, paganism, and paranormal phenomena. The cover prominently features the headline "LEY-LINE DETRACTORS IN QUESTION" and a "WANTED" poster for fictional characters, hinting at the confrontational nature of the content. The magazine is published by Paul Screeton, who also serves as the editor and a contributor.

Lead-In: Ley Lines in Question

The issue's lead-in article addresses the delay in publishing a promised John Michell special, explaining that it has been postponed to 1984. The primary focus of this issue is the book "LEY LINES IN QUESTION" by Tom Williamson and Liz Bellamy. The authors of this book were invited to submit an article on their aims, which is included, alongside reviews by Anthony Roberts and the editor, Paul Screeton. The editor notes that the reviews section is truncated due to the topicality of the issue, which specifically deals with Williamson and Bellamy's book.

The Pipes of P.A.N.

A brief mention is made of "THE PIPES OF P.A.N.", described as a magazine for Pagans Against Nukes, advocating for the banishment of nuclear technology and the creation of harmony, with New Age eco-pagan sentiments and political activism.

Content Overview and Reviews

The magazine features a diverse range of content, including poems and articles touching on paganism, sexuality, and mythology. John Cooper Clark's poem "You Won't See Nipples in The Daily Express" is mentioned. The issue highlights instances of nudity and suggestive imagery in previous issues, such as a naked moon goddess, a naked girl, and Pan with 'impressively endowed genitalia', seemingly to cater to a female readership. Other topics covered include the Fellowship of Isis, meditation, pets, Sylvants, vivisection, astrology, beacons at bases, and green ray. Guy Raglan Phillips is noted for his work on music, poetry, ritual work, creation myths, radical feminism, astrology, and darkness.

Editorial Stance and Criticism of "Ley Lines in Question"

Paul Screeton, the editor, takes to task two people and acknowledges that two others feel he has taken them to task. Philip Cozens and Nicola Miles of THE PIPE'S OF P.A.N. question the magazine's cover, accusing it of degrading the Old Religion and perpetrating sexism. Screeton defends the cover, stating the poses were artistic and the model was part of a British Safety Council campaign about fire dangers.

Screeton then launches into a detailed critique of "LEY LINES IN QUESTION" by Tom Williamson and Liz Bellamy. He describes the book as a "contract job" on scientific ley hunting, executed by "young contract killers." While acknowledging the authors' skills in presenting a readable, if critical, survey of "alternative archaeology," Screeton finds their arguments frequently "slipshod, silly and breathlessly juvenile." He argues that the authors, as social anthropologists, are limited by their constricting sociology and lack a viable metaphysical basis for understanding history, viewing them as "blind, academic hacks" devoid of "true Blakean Imagination."

Screeton contends that the book's overall thesis is that leys, geomancy, and earth mysteries are based on "lies, ignorance, misapprehension, naivety and plain good old fashioned wishful thinking." He praises the authors for dissecting scientific ley hunters but criticizes their dismissal of geomancy and psychic phenomena, which he sees as natural expressions of metaphysical reality.

The book's attempt to systematically destroy theoretical concepts of ley hunting is highlighted, with Screeton refuting their claims about the "mixed marker" syndrome and site continuity. He points out that the authors neglect the work of John Williams and Dr. Josef Heinsch, and misinterpret the etymology of the word 'Og'. Screeton also criticizes their dismissal of Templars' esoteric knowledge, citing Nesta Webster's work as evidence.

Screeton finds the book's ultimate dismissal of leys as being by chance or coincidence to be a weak argument. He notes that the authors do, however, urge conservative archaeologists to study "highly structured spatial distribution of sites." Screeton accepts his own categorization as being on the "lunatic fringe" but finds solace in the idea that being "lunatic" in a world of "evil, reductive rationalism is to be truly, holily sane."

Specific Criticisms of "Ley Lines in Question"

Screeton details numerous specific criticisms of Williamson and Bellamy's book:

• Methodology: He accuses them of concentrating on a small number of books and ignoring numerous issues of "THE LEY HUNTER" and other relevant articles.
• Dismissal of Nature's Role: He criticizes their dismissal of Tom Graves' suggestion that ley lines might be caused by natural forces, labeling it as "lunatic fringe" thinking, which Screeton argues is central to current thought.
• Misrepresentation of Ley Theory: Screeton refutes the claim that ley theory ascribes all origins to the Neolithic period, calling it "entirely wrong and clearly preposterous."
• Monotony Argument: He counters the idea that ley hunting becomes monotonous, drawing a parallel to archaeologists digging up middens.
• Archaeologists vs. Ley Hunters: Screeton contrasts archaeologists, who he sees as aligned to a "straitjacket," with ley hunters who look for lines in pockets.
• Demarcation Blur: He acknowledges the blurring of amateur/professional lines due to recession but criticizes the book's argument against ley hunting's "egalitarian organisation."
• Ignoring Analogies: Screeton dismisses the claim that ley hunters ignore "illuminating analogies" by citing examples like microwave aerials and Centrepoint.
• Statistical Faith: He notes the authors' lack of faith in statistical probability for ley reality.
• Folklore Interpretation: Screeton challenges their analysis of folklore, particularly their use of "THE SECRET COUNTRY" as an anchor point.
• Misinterpretation of 'Og': The book's claim that the deity word 'Og' dates only to the fifteenth century is challenged, with references to John Cohane and Harold Bayley suggesting much older origins.
• "Mare's Nest" on Scots Pine: Screeton dismisses the idea that Scots Pine were reintroduced to denote farms as a "mare's nest," suggesting they were real markers.
• Professor Thom's "Rays": He notes Professor Alexander Thom's use of "ray" instead of "ley" as a word for alignments.
• St. Augustine's, Addlestone: Screeton criticizes the book for not fully explaining why this modern church is noteworthy, failing to mention its pyramidal significance and its relation to the Great Pyramid.
• Misspelled Names: Screeton lists several misspelled names in the book, including Guy Raglan Phillips, Gerlack, Lesley Grinsell, and Robert Forest.
• "The Furness Formula": He questions the book's statement about ley hunters using Peter Furness's formula, noting that he is unaware of anyone who has actually used it.
• "Virgin Sites": The claim that Guisborough Priory is a "virgin site" is questioned, with Screeton mentioning a photographed marker stone there.

The "Coronation Street" Jinx

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the controversial theory linking ley lines to a perceived "jinx" affecting the popular TV show "Coronation Street." The article, written by Paul Screeton, explores claims made in the Sunday Mirror newspaper. Pat Phoenix (Elsie Tanner), William Roache (Ken Barlow), and psychic detective Robert Cracknell are cited as supporting the theory that the show's rehearsal room is situated on a crossing of ley lines, causing a multitude of problems for the cast and crew. These problems include Pat Phoenix quitting, William Roache's personal situation, Peter Adamson's sacking, Barbara Knox's near-death experience, and Doris Speed's illness. Screeton consults with Dom Robert Petitpierre, described as the Church of England's senior exorcist, who believes ley lines "exercise a rather mysterious influence." Petitpierre's views on the influence of ley lines and the Church of England's approach to exorcism are discussed. The article also touches on the possibility of black magic practitioners using ley power for ceremonies.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of THE SHAMAN are the contentious relationship between ley line theory and academic archaeology, the nature of earth mysteries, and the broader landscape of fringe science and alternative beliefs. The editorial stance, as espoused by Paul Screeton, is largely supportive of ley hunters and critical of those who dismiss or denigrate their work, particularly the authors of "LEY LINES IN QUESTION." Screeton champions the idea that ley theory offers a valuable perspective on the countryside and its history, often imbued with a "poetic truth" and emotional connection that he feels is lacking in orthodox archaeology. The magazine appears to embrace a wide spectrum of esoteric and paranormal topics, from paganism and geomancy to UFOs and psychic phenomena, positioning itself as a platform for ideas often considered outside the mainstream. The issue also highlights a tension between the magazine's content and criticisms of sexism and sensationalism, as seen in the exchange with Philip Cozens and Nicola Miles.

Title: Fortean Times
Issue: 104
Volume: 12
Date: 1998
Publisher: Fortean Times
Country: United Kingdom
Language: English
Price: £1-25
Cover Headline: FAITH IN "CONTINUITY"

This issue of Fortean Times, dated 1998, focuses on the theme of "Continuity" in relation to archaeology and ley lines, while also covering various ufological and earth mystery topics. The magazine critiques conventional archaeological perspectives and explores alternative theories, featuring reviews of relevant books and other publications.

Faith in "Continuity"

The lead article, "FAITH IN "CONTINUITY"", discusses the concept of continuity, particularly in relation to archaeology and ley lines. It references Glyn Daniel, described as the "doyen of entrenched reactionary orthodox archaeology," and his book "MEGALITHS IN HISTORY." The article also touches upon "U.S. LEYS" and evidence from a surveyor named Brannan, suggesting it is potentially as exciting as material in Tony Morrison's "PATHWAYS TO THE GODS." The author questions why Euan Mackie was not criticized for his "velikovskian catastrophism sympathies." A fundamental assumption about ley hunters, that modern societies are created by a "very, very long continuing process" as proposed by Gordon Childe, is opposed, with the author arguing that this line of thinking leads to "gas chambers and burning crosses."

The article contrasts this with a view of societal stability based on "commonsense, collective consciousness, conscience and fundamental honesty," suggesting that "W&B" (likely referring to the authors of a book being reviewed) find these concepts alien.

Retribution for Desecration

This section discusses the aftermath of barrow digging, noting that while "no obvious harm to either archaeologists or farmers" may have occurred, "something bad happened to someone who had been present at the destruction of a barrow." It references T.C. Lethbridge and mentions that folklore about thunder and lightning might refer to ionization, capable of scientific evaluation. The author notes that books by "Bords and Grinsell" pre-empted his own work on folklore associated with ancient sites. The author criticizes "W&B" for being "flippantly superficial on dowsing practise" and dismissive of "ley power" manifestations, despite years of monitoring by the Dragon Project.

John Dee and the Glastonbury Zodiac

The article addresses the claim, prominently featured by "W&B" on page 176, that Elizabethan occultist John Dee discovered the Glastonbury Zodiac. The author states that John Michell perpetuates this myth in "THE NEW VIEW OVER ATLANTIS." However, the author asserts that a thorough investigation would reveal that Richard Deacon (a pseudonym) fabricated this claim in his notorious book on Dee and could not produce his source. The author notes that "orthodox researchers" consulted had never heard of this "discovery," but an "unorthodox" researcher (presumably the author) could provide a full explanation. The author suggests Deacon's motive is the only mystery and criticizes "W&B" for not showing suspicion, arguing that by bringing up the topic without thorough investigation, they "tar themselves with the same brush" used to criticize ley hunters.

Towards the end of the book...

Towards the end of the book, "W&B" offer a platitudinous statement that "in contrast (to the 'New' archaeology) ley hunting, bizarre though it may be, is at least a praiseworthy attempt to give the study of the past a vital role in the present." The author finds this statement "appallingly insulting," quoting his wife's reaction: "Can't you just hit him in the face?"

Perverse Futility of Writing Such Books

The author suggests that writing books like the one reviewed is a "perverse futility." He believes that condemnatory books, such as White's "THE PAST IS HUMAN," do not deter believers in ancient astronauts or the absurd but may instead "encourage belief in the absurd." Conversely, "W&B" are likely to create sympathy for the ley concept, which the author considers "far from absurd."

He suspects that the authors of "W&B" wish they were part of the ley-hunting fraternity, being like "shy introverts envious of others having fun." They are seen as wanting to "dare cross the belief threshold and embrace an exciting viewpoint."

Book Review: THE MEGALITHIC ODYSSEY by Christian O'Brien

This section reviews Christian O'Brien's book, "THE MEGALITHIC ODYSSEY." O'Brien is described as a freethinker who proposes that Sumerians of a superior culture settled in Britain and spread their societal benefits. The author notes that O'Brien's "Genius of the Few" theme is similar to John Ivimy's "THE SPHINX AND THE MEGALITHS." While O'Brien suggests a Sumerian origin for megalithic structures, the author posits that Neolithic Britons might have taken their blueprints globally, or that a common cultural denominator exists across diverse worldwide structures.

The author expresses doubt about O'Brien's theorizing, partly due to John Barnatt's analysis of archaeoastronomical material and O'Brien's apparent unawareness of other earth mysteries literature, such as Ross Nicholls' work on the Brown Willy complex. The reviewer concludes that O'Brien seems to have worked in isolation.

O'Brien admits that "in a study of these remains there can be no certainty unless some definitive artifact or intelligible record should be unearthed." The author questions why Sumerians would not have left identifiable objects, suggesting that perhaps the "Countryside Code" originated with their civilization.

Regarding stone circles, O'Brien acknowledges their diversity, stating they "were not built to any standard pattern." The author finds this Bodmin Moor situation concerning, especially if arguing for an elite of overseers. O'Brien also admits that "no tradition of the origins of the Cornish stone circles or any remembrance of the designers has been passed down from remote times is indicated by the local legends that surround them." Yet other tales seem to date back to the Palaeolithic.

Despite criticisms, the author finds himself agreeing with many of O'Brien's conclusions, though not always endorsing his "fanciful diffusionist hypothesis." He agrees that Goodaver stone circle might have been an instructional centre and concurs with O'Brien's censure of the Department of the Environment for calling The Hurlers a "religious purpose" centre.

The author believes O'Brien's search for the builders of Bodmin Moor circles would have been better focused on the indigenous population. He concludes that while the book has "pleasant pictures and a fanciful theory," it would be a "duller world without the likes of Christian O'Brien."

Magazine Reviews

STONEHENGE VIEWPOINT: This newsprint publication covers archaeology, astronomy, geology, and related arts and sciences. Issue No. 56 features John Michell warning about statisticians and describing an expedition with Bob Forrest. Paul Screeton contributes a chapter on the history of ley hunting. Donald Cyr compares modern mirror-created star energy with the Vailian canopy model and continues his "autobiography." Louis K. Bell expands on ideas of exchange and economic ratios in ancient monetary systems. The issue includes advertisements for books.

QUEST: Described as a magazine for "practising occultists of the Magical Heritage of the West." Issue No. 55 includes a piece by Paul Devereux on dowsing at ancient sites, thoughtforms, Dragon Project revelations, UFOs, rune lore, the Grail Cycle, Joan of Arc, and Tarot divination. It also covers mental attitude for fighting cancer and unemployment as a boon for occultists. Announcements for gatherings, publications, courses, and reviews are included.

Issue No. 56 covers superstitions, beliefs, curses, the Tree of Life, the SATOR ROTAS magic square, and the need for bridge-building to appreciate diverse spiritual paths. It also mentions the Tree Council, advice for those suffering initiation, a Wiccan bedtime story, advertisements, and book reviews.

NORTHERN UFO NEWS: This journal offers a forum for ufological matters, from commentary to speculation and reports. Issue No. 104 features an editorial on selecting UFO cases, comments on the Rendlesham Forest incident, and mentions Cracoe Fell and Bradford area sightings. Issue No. 105 discusses chequebook journalism related to UK ufology, William Dillon on UFO stimulus, Andrew J. Cummings on ufology, and UK and overseas cases. Subscriptions are available.

Other Content

MAGONIA: An independent UFO journal examining the phenomenon and its societal reaction. Issue No. 14 covers a controversy between Jenny Randles and Peter Rogerson, a survey of Algerian ufological context, Norwegian sightings investigated by Hilary Evans, and Ian Ridpath debunking the Rendlesham Forest affair. It includes erudite book reviews.

FORTEAN TIMES: The latest issue is announced as an 80-page bumber 10th anniversary issue, with details on single copies and subscriptions.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently critiques conventional academic approaches, particularly in archaeology, and champions alternative perspectives such as ley hunting and earth mysteries. There is a strong emphasis on debunking myths and unsubstantiated claims, while also acknowledging the value of exploring less conventional ideas. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, encouraging readers to question established narratives and consider a broader range of possibilities, particularly in the realms of ancient history, folklore, and unexplained phenomena. The magazine also engages with contemporary social issues, such as sexism, offering a provocative and often contrarian viewpoint.