The inaugural meeting of the IWFS (Isle of Wight Fortean Society) got of to a grand start on Thursday 29th July when a small but select gathering of Forteans assembled to commemorate poet of the peculiar Charles Fort (pictured, left), and hear a talk from author and Fortean Times contributor Mike Jay on his book The Air Loom Gang. Introducing Mike Jay, Ottakar's senior assistant and co-founder of the IWFS James Nye announced that Hollywood has shown great interest in adapting Mike's extroardinary book to the screen - with Johnny Depp's name being bandied around as a possible contender for the role of real life 18th Century Welsh tea merchant, visionary madman, political idealist and cabbage enthusiast, James Tilly Matthews - the subject of Mike's book.
(Pictured above right, Cassandra Eason, Mike Jay and David Evans.)
Joining Mike were local honorary IWFS members Gay Baldwin, famed for her books on Isle of Wight ghosts, Cassandra Eason, white witch, druidess and author of many books on magic, and psychotherapist and author Ken Alexander. Dropping in unexpectedly was Fortean Times contributor Albert Budden, author of, amongst other titles Allergies and Aliens. By coincidence, Mr Budden is in the process of moving to Bonchurch. Cassandra, Gay, Albert and Ken will all be giving talks to the IWFS at Ottakar's in the near future.
(Pictured above left, James Nye and David Evans examine a book for weirdness.)
The IWFS was thrilled to have so many local Forteans attend its inaugural meeting, and very honoured that David Evans, Fortean enthusiast and Ottakar's Intranet Support Manager, and overseer of Ottakar's Mind-Body-Spirit sections, made the journey from the Mainland to attend. For technical reasons, local Fortean Times contributor and co-founder of the IWFS, Jack Phoenix was unable to attend.
(Pictured above left, Albert Budden and Mike Jay. Right, Cassandra Eason and Mike Jay.)
After a stimulating talk, an equally involved and lively question and answer session ensued - and this carried on for some time in the bar of Lugley's after Ottakar's had closed.
Ottakar's will be hosting the next IWFS event on 23rd October. It promises to be an exciting Special Hallowe'en Party for grown-ups, in which Big Brother's favourite dream analyst Cassandra Eason will be talking about her new books on magic, and also giving free readings and dream analyses. Fancy dress is optional, but there will be a special prize for the scariest costume. Tickets are £3, and as usual, refreshments will be provided. Book early, as this one will be very popular. Tickets available from Ottakar's on (01983) 527927.
For more information on the IWFS, telephone James Nye at Ottakar's on (01983) 527927 (Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday only)
or email Jack Phoenix.
On the morning following his talk, James Nye and Jack Phoenix took Mike Jay on a tour of the Island, and they walked to the Mottistone Longstone, the Island's only ancient megalith. Coincidentally, it looked as though someone had chalked on the stone the word "Tilly' (for James Tilly Matthews) prior to their arrival.
(Pictured above left, Mike Jay stands next to the Mottistone Longstone. Right, mysterious writings on the Stone.)
For more information on Mike Jay's talk, click here.
To see the poster for The Air Loom Gang talk, click here .
Click here to go to the IWFS bookshop
Visit the website of Robert Anton Wilson
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Copyright © 2004 James Nye, Jack Phoenix, Rabbi Burns
