The Shaman - No 10 - 1985

Magazine Overview

'The Shaman' No. 10, an independent, non-profitmaking magazine incorporating 'Ancient Skills & Wisdom Review', was published in March 1985 by Paul Screeton from Seaton Carew, Hartlepool. The issue announces that it is the last under the 'The Shaman' title, with plans for a relaunch in June or July focusing on urban belief tales and modern folklore. The magazine's ISSN is 01409522, and subscription rates are provided for the UK and US.

Lead-In

The publisher, Paul Screeton, explains that due to working as a non-union 'executive' with a newspaper during a two-month strike, he has been unable to finalize his publishing plans. He confirms that this is the final issue of 'The Shaman'. Subscribers will receive an issue of 'Ancient Skills & Wisdom Review' detailing the changes and new direction. The relaunch will focus on urban belief tales and modern folklore, with regular book and magazine reviews. Screeton appeals for readers to submit clippings of modern folklore or rumours.

Article: A Personal Black Panther Sighting in Northumberland, 1983

Paul Screeton recounts a personal sighting of a black panther on May 8, 1983, in Northumberland. While driving with John Watson, they saw an all-black cat of panther form cross the road about 100 yards ahead. The animal was described as high as an adult Doberman pinscher, twice the length, and moving with a powerful, quick feline gait. Watson later described it as slower and greyish. Screeton notes the lack of coordination between himself and Watson during the event, and his own initial confused reaction. He references a similar sighting reported in 'The Sun' in December 1977 and a book by Guido Badino on 'Big Cats of the World'. Screeton speculates about the psychological impact of the sighting, noting that his previous anxiety dreams about dogs ceased, and he began having big cat dreams. He also mentions a dream where a leopard spoke to him. The article concludes by referencing a 'National Revue' piece on Sagittarians and a 'The Sun' article about 'Sue's a jungle belle!', linking these to the broader theme of unusual animal sightings and potential psychic dimensions.

Article: Topless girls, bingo, news values and the Chancellor

This article, by Paul Screeton, critiques the media's reliance on sensationalism, particularly the use of 'topless girls' and 'bingo' as primary sales pitches in newspapers. Screeton argues that while glamour pictures can be uplifting, their excessive use, as seen in 'The Sun' and 'Daily Star', trivializes news values. He contrasts this with the more balanced content of 'The Mail', which includes beauty queen pictures and a Saturday glamour girl but does not let them intrude on news content. The author expresses concern that this trend, driven by a pursuit of 'Mammon', might prompt the Chancellor to impose VAT on newspapers and books. He argues that this would be a tax on learning and a contradiction of freedom of information, and that the 'big boys' of Fleet Street should lead by example by ceasing their 'bingo wars'.

Article: Disappointing Dylan

Paul Screeton reviews Bob Dylan's live album 'Real Live'. He expresses disappointment, noting that Dylan has been a 'fallen idol' since his conversion to Christianity. Screeton feels that Dylan's current performance is a shadow of his former self, and that the revolutionaries he inspired have been crushed by apathy. While acknowledging Dylan's past significance, he finds the album lacking, with only a few tracks like 'I and I' and 'Girl From the North Country' showing glimpses of his old spirit. He criticizes songs like 'License to Kill' and 'Masters of War' as weak or rambling. Despite the album's shortcomings, Screeton suggests that true Dylan fans will want it for nostalgic reasons.

Article: Cosmic Rock

This article by Paul Screeton explores the intersection of rock music and UFO phenomena. He discusses the band Klaatu, whose album 'Klaatu' sold well due to a rumour that it was a secret Beatles set. He mentions John Squire's interpretation of the album's hieroglyphics suggesting the band were extraterrestrials. The article touches on the fascination of rock musicians with occult and fringe subjects, and the potential for a sociological explanation for this interest. Examples include Neil Young's song 'After the Gold Rush', which shifts through different time scales and envisions a futuristic utopia, and the band X-Ray Spex, whose singer Poly Styrene became interested in UFOs after a sighting. The article also notes musicians like Mick Jagger, Mick Taylor, Lene Lovitch, and Debbie Harry, who have expressed interest or anxieties related to aliens and UFOs. Jimi Hendrix is quoted as saying he felt he was 'from an asteroid belt off the coast of Mars'. The article concludes by mentioning The Stranglers and their interest in 'Men in Black' phenomena, and the potential for conspiracy theories surrounding UFO witnesses.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue reflects a strong interest in Fortean phenomena, including unexplained animal sightings (black panthers) and UFOs, often linking them to popular culture, particularly music and media. The editorial stance, as expressed by Paul Screeton, is critical of sensationalist media practices, advocating for a more balanced approach to news and content. There is also a sense of disillusionment with figures who were once icons, such as Bob Dylan, and a questioning of societal values and the direction of popular culture. The magazine's own transition signals a move towards exploring modern folklore and belief systems.