Touchstone

Magazine Overview

Title: Touchstone
Issue: No. 78
Date: July 2007
Publisher: Surrey Earth Mysteries Group

This issue of Touchstone delves into the fascinating intersection of geology, landscape, literature, and unexplained phenomena, with a primary focus on the E-line ley and its manifestations.

The E-Line at the Dorset Coast

The lead article by Bob Shave examines the E-line ley along the Dorset coast, drawing parallels with its presence in Surrey. In Surrey, the E-line is linked to a geological boundary between sandstone and clay where water seeps out, creating a spring-line. Shave applies this concept to Dorset, specifically east of Lyme Regis, where hills like Stonebarrow Hill and Golden Cap are described as sandstone 'islands' sitting on an underlying clay layer. This geological structure, similar to Surrey's, makes the sandstone resistant to erosion, forming high ground.

The article discusses landslips, a phenomenon observed on Leith Hill in Surrey due to the slippery sandstone/clay boundary. In Dorset, this occurs on a much larger scale, creating 'The Undercliff' area, through which the E-line passes parallel to the coast. The text notes the abundance of fossils in the cliffs, mentioning Mary Anning, a famous 19th-century fossil hunter from Lyme Regis.

Literary Connections: John Fowles and Jane Austen

Shave explores how the E-line and its associated landscape may have inspired literature. He highlights John Fowles' novel, 'The French Lieutenant's Woman,' set in Victorian Lyme Regis and the Undercliff. Fowles' descriptive powers are praised, and the article suggests the E-line's energy might be expressing itself through the novel. Key scenes are described, including encounters on the Cobb and within the Undercliff, which is depicted as a steep, botanically rich, and mysterious area, likened to an 'English Garden of Eden.' The text quotes Fowles' descriptions of Sarah Woodruff's unforgettable, tragic face and the vivid, almost spiritual atmosphere of the Undercliff at dawn, emphasizing its connection to nature, heightened awareness, and a sense of profound existence.

Jane Austen is also mentioned for her use of Lyme Regis in her novel 'Persuasion.' Her description of the Cobb and the 'beautiful line of cliffs' is quoted, suggesting she too was inspired by the coastal landscape, which aligns with the E-line's path.

The Art of Dragon Taming

This section summarizes a talk by Paul Broadhurst concerning St. George and dragon symbolism. It posits that figures like St. George and St. Michael represent earth energies and are layered archetypes, not necessarily historical figures. The article suggests that George was a pre-existing 'lord of the earth' who was later Christianized, absorbing older traditions. The 'Obby 'Oss' festival is linked to this theme, representing the 'awakening dragon of Beltane' and the cycle of death and rebirth, connecting George to the Green Man.

Mythology and Symbolism: Green Man and Dragons

Further exploration into mythology covers the etymology of 'Ge' (Earth) and 'Or' (light), linking them to the Green Man figure. The Green Man is presented as an earth worker, a symbol of fertility, and a figure absorbed into Christianity. His connection to dragons is discussed, noting that while dragons have had a negative portrayal, they historically represented earth energy and were sometimes tamed rather than killed. Examples include dragon carvings in churches, the Uffington White Horse possibly representing a dragon, and the dragon's association with creativity and energy. The text mentions the 'dragon staff' and bishops' croziers featuring dragon heads as symbols of taming. Rosslyn Chapel is noted for its numerous Green Man carvings and interlaced dragons.

Other Sections and Notes

Notes and News: This section includes listings for upcoming TEMS (The Temporal and Earth Mysteries Society) and London Earth Mysteries Circle meetings, along with contact details. It also features a report on a UFO sighting at the Lunation Triangle point near Duloe, Cornwall, in July 2006, involving multiple disk-shaped objects.

Letters: Two letters are included. Norman Darwen from Lancashire discusses the E-line's extension to Stewart Island, New Zealand, noting its Maori name 'Rakiura' and its suitability for observing the Aurora Australis due to magnetic anomalies. Adrian Hyde from Essex recounts a strange experience in Ireland involving the repeated, inexplicable appearance of an ink cartridge in his boot, suggesting teleportation.

Publications: Several publications are advertised, including 'The Hidden Unity and Beginnings' by Jimmy Goddard, 'Earth People, Space People' by Tony Wedd, and a CD-ROM titled 'The Legacy of Tony Wedd.' The newsletter 'Touchstone' itself is also promoted, with subscription details.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the interconnectedness of landscape features (geology, leys), ancient mythology (Green Man, dragons), and human creativity (literature). The editorial stance appears to be one of exploring these connections with an open mind, presenting research and anecdotal evidence from various sources, and encouraging readers to consider alternative perspectives on history, mythology, and unexplained phenomena. The magazine acts as a platform for sharing research and findings within the Earth Mysteries community.