James Broughton (1913-1999) was truly one of a kind. A Dionysian genius who left his creative and idiosyncratic mark on experimental film, on poetry, on San Francisco, and on all those who knew, loved, frolicked with, and learned from him.

James was brilliant at following his own muse wherever it led him. From writing poems and plays to making films, James explored sexuality and spirituality, broke cinematic barriers, and followed his whimsy wholeheartedly. He let his authentic spirit lead him wherever it would, and on his way he touched many people.

Whether you knew James well or have just come to know about him through a poem, a film, or maybe even a "Follow Your Own Weird" bumper sticker, this is a section for you to share your stories of how James and his work have touched your life.

For more about James Broughton's life, work, and the Big Joy documentary now being filmed, please visit us at bigjoy.org.

Thursday, June 4, 2009

Posted by Stephen Silha at 10:42 PM


Dear Spiral & BB Ha!

I am so excited to hear that you are working on a biography project for James.

I never had the privilege to meet James (or even know about his poetry) prior to his death. His life, and the fruits of it, have touched me on so many levels.

The first Breitenbush faerie I had a deep recognition with was a good friend and maybe even a devotee of James. The first Radical Faerie I fell in love with designed a "unicorn corral" for James' garden. In both of these faeries I see a playful audacity that I have since come to learn is related and influenced in some ways by James.

James writing and poetry then became an inspiration and companion as I wrote the thesis for my master's degree. His words reminded me that I could not risk my soul by killing spirituality in dry academic words, but instead needed to push the boundaries, take risks and keep it alive. His words (poetry and prose) help demonstrate some of the paradoxes of spirituality and the inherent simplicity that escapes explanation.

Best of luck on your project and please let me know if there is anything I can to to help you birth this project.

Hugs and kisses
Morgain Lessloss (aka Michael Anhorn)

 

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