The Umberlexicon (Book of Shadowed Words) is a collection of illustrated volumes transcribed centuries ago by the pre-Christian demon Dhaqilatss. It contains arcane knowledge amassed at that time by the loathsome occupants of Its home dimension at that time. Over the centuries it has been added to and expanded by each of its temporary owners. Dhaqilatss is actually one of the more powerful members of a God-like race of beings called “The Forgotten Ones” created in a parallel plane of existence called Tholhivez. They were some of the first bio-spiritual beings to interact with humanity. When a rivalry formed between The Forgotten Ones and their co- inhabitants of Tholhivez, The Primordials, it threatened the development of humanity on Earth as well as the stability of the gateways between this reality and the countless others.

This is only a short extract of the complete legend.

There's actually rarely any mention of this intriguing legend which could make for an interesting and original presentation angle.

Not only limited to occult styles of performances but there's scope in the legend to be applied to many different plot lines. If you do some research and uncover the "ins and outs of it", I think you'll find endless ideas for a captivating presentation.

Just a few aspects to the legend:

Charles Russell whom possession of the volume drove mad. In an attempt to rid himself of the madness, he flung this book into the Atlantic Ocean. But the damage was done and he discovered a supernatural memory, being able to recall the book line for line without ever memorizing it. It's pretty clear this part of the legend could be applied to a homing card kind of a routine combined with a memory demonstration.

There's much more to the legend, ranging from the example described above to the disturbingly occult, lots of scope!

Sounds like the necronomicon...

Interesting...

Do you think this would make for a good basis to build a kids show on? What about Gospel performance? I bet producing a demon would make kids think twice before being naughty.
Steve V

Lol Steve. I found the story a bit confusing manix, perhaps becasue I have never heard of the characters before. I think trying to make up stories about more common legends is easier. Was there more than one copy of the book? Perhaps if you could pick up a new edition at borders or something then you could use it to explain to people before you do the trick?

I think that this would be too scary for kids. But it would be good at a seance type of show.

What about Paul Bunyan? Do you think anyone remembers ol' Paul and his ox Blue?
Steve V

Hey Steve,
Paul is more American, where as we are talking about UK type legends here. Living in Australia, I don't really know much about Paul Bunyip.

What about Brothers Grimm stories? You could tie it in with the new Matt Damon movie.

If you did a Paul Bunyon gimmick, the appearing ax (ala appearing pole) could be done.

UK legends... Paul O'Bunyan?
Steve V

Steve, You're too funny. He'd have to wear green plaid.

Wasn't that demon later sainted and more recently became the publisher of Reader's Digest. I heard that part of his book is serialized in each issue, but in code.