67. Fortean Times Talk (with Ian Simmons)

Summary

In this enthralling discussion, hosts Paul Giamatti and Steven Soderbergh delve into the world of Fortean phenomena with Ian Simmons, news editor of The Fortean Times. They explore the inexplicable, from poltergeists and cryptids to cultural myths and modern memes like Slender Man. The conversation meanders through tales of the strange, highlighting the enduring appeal of the unknown and questioning the nature of reality, skepticism, and the role of consciousness in shaping our perception of the world.

Takeaways

• 📚 The podcast 'Chinwag' discusses a variety of strange and unexplained phenomena, inspired by the works of Charles Fort and the magazine 'Fortean Times'.
• 🎙️ The hosts, Paul Giamatti and Steven Soderbergh, engage in a conversation with Ian Simmons, the news editor of 'Fortean Times', who has contributed to the magazine for over 30 years.
• 🤷‍♂️ The nature of Fortean phenomena is that they often resist explanation and can be seen as existing in the fringes of reality, challenging conventional understanding.
• 📖 Charles Fort's work focused on collecting and presenting 'damned data'—evidence of strange occurrences that defy scientific explanation and are often ignored by mainstream science.
• 🧬 Ian Simmons' background in biological sciences and his experience in science museums bring a unique perspective to his role at 'Fortean Times', blending skepticism with an appreciation for the unexplained.
• 🦊 The story of 'Jeff the talking Mongoose' is highlighted as an example of a Fortean phenomenon, where a family in the Isle of Man experienced what they believed to be a supernatural entity.
• 🎬 Mention is made of a film about 'Jeff the talking Mongoose', which Simmons advises against watching due to its poor quality.
• 🔮 The conversation delves into the cultural impact of Fortean phenomena and how they are perceived and reinterpreted over time, with references to movies like 'Poltergeist'.
• 🌐 The influence of the internet on the spread of Fortean memes and the potential dangers of individuals acting on such beliefs, such as the 'Slender Man' incident, is briefly discussed.
• 👻 The hosts express their enthusiasm for the subject matter, with Giamatti describing the discussion as his 'happy place' and indicating a desire for a follow-up episode to further explore these topics.

Q & A

What is the significance of the phrase 'the mind is willing but the body is weak' in the context of the script?

The phrase 'the mind is willing but the body is weak' is used to reflect on aging, suggesting that while one's spirit remains youthful and eager, the physical body may not always be able to keep up, a common theme in discussions about getting older.

What is the connection between the guest's name, Steve Axelman, and the language of Frisia?

Steve Axelman's name, when translated into the Frisian language, means 'axle man,' which is a unique and interesting fact about his heritage and name origin.

What historical event is mentioned regarding the guest's great-great-great-grandfather?

The guest's great-great-great-grandfather is said to have lived in the capital of Leeuwarden, which was part of an independent country north of Amsterdam, and later took a ship to the United States in the 1890s.

What is the significance of the '4an Times' in the script?

The '4an Times' is a magazine that focuses on weird news and has been mentioned as a significant influence on the podcast. It has a long history, having celebrated its 50th Anniversary, and the guest, Ian Simmons, is a news editor for the magazine.

Who is Charles Fort and what is his connection to the '4an Times'?

Charles Fort was a writer known for compiling stories of strange phenomena, which he called 'damned data.' His unique style and approach to these stories have made him a guiding spirit for the '4an Times' and its readers.

What is the meaning of the term 'inexplicability' as used in the script?

The term 'inexplicability' refers to phenomena or occurrences that cannot be explained by conventional means, a central theme of the '4an Times' and the subject of the podcast's discussion.

What is the role of Ian Simmons in the '4an Times'?

Ian Simmons is the news editor of the '4an Times,' having written for the magazine for over 30 years on a wide range of unusual subjects and contributing to its reputation as a leading source for weird news.

What is the reference to 'paop physics' in the script?

'Paop physics' is a playful term used in the script to describe the study of phenomena that exist on the fringes of conventional scientific understanding, where reality becomes fuzzy and less certain.

What is the cultural significance of the 'Jeff the talking Mongoose' story mentioned in the script?

The story of 'Jeff the talking Mongoose' is a famous case of alleged poltergeist activity from the 1930s on the Isle of Man. It is significant because it exemplifies the kind of strange and unexplained phenomena that the '4an Times' and the podcast explore.

What is the implication of the script's discussion on the evolution of belief in the supernatural?

The script implies that beliefs in supernatural phenomena, such as aliens, demons, or cryptids, evolve over time, influenced by cultural trends, media representations, and societal fears or fascinations.