Calenture 3

A couple of months ago there was a burn-off in the mountains and smoke swept over the entire city. At dusk the sunlight filtered through the haze, the rich smell of burned wood in the air. Standing in the (invariable) crowds taking photos of the thick smoke, there was something of strange voyeuristic mood combined with an apocalyptic feeling, as if the city itself was burning, an instant of Ballardian collapse.

Flower Gods

One of the most unique publications and publishing companies I have been involved with have a blog here, publishers of unique beat and visionary literature they are a secret yet essential source for knowledge. Their xochi23 journal covers everything from jazz noise damage to lesser known visionaries, and is a source for counter cultural information in the true sense. Their previous publications include world on and by Burroughs and Gysin, including W S Burroughs' Unforgettable Characters, for which I wrote the introduction.

Of related interest I am currently deep in Wade Davis' absorbing study of Haitian culture, zombis and voodoo The Serpent and the Rainbow and WSB's Letters 1945-59. Both of which are recommended reading, and a part of some larger engagement.