The Cryptic Countdown

By Tas Boyce

The setting is in the beautiful Dandenong Ranges east of Melbourne where’hills’ communities are located. The tennis-playing mates of Hans de Jongprovide both enjoyment and solace to him at the Mountain Dale TennisClub. Whilst Barry Warren, a close friend of Hans undergoes minordiscomfort from his medical concerns, Hans is beset with schizophrenia.The thought processes and behaviour patterns of such a sufferer areoutlined, as well as his awareness of a ’personal countdown’.
One particular psychotic episode merges with the reality of the AmericanVenus space probe in 1989. Hans, suffering psychotic delusions, makes adesperate attempt to forestall the Venus countdown and space launch. Oneof his tennis pals, Mervyn Trevor, a great clubman, plays an importantpart in a steadying role as well as transporting him to MaroondahHospital.
Detained in a psychiatric ward Hans develops and refines a crypticmessage to be delivered to Prime Minister Bob Hawke with the aim of avoiding Armageddon on Earth. Hans resolutely and singlehandedly attemptsto save the world.
There is a romantic angle to the book, and a suggestion that a morespiritual existence is needed, if life is to be fully enjoyed. Strongcharacter development is blended in with a story of utter confusion,triumph, ascent to a higher plane of consciousness, the gaining of wisdomand personal fulfilment. Everyone should go mad occasionally!
Also incorporated into the story is a hint that mental illness needs tobe more understood in terms of a reaction to overwhelming change, ratherthan merely an expression of psychiatric disorder. It is furthersuggested that individuals like Hans can develop new mental powers andabilities arising from what are known as ’Near-Death Experiences’.

• Language: English
• Publisher: ReadOnTime BV
• Release date: Aug 8, 2013
• ISBN: 9781742843797

Book preview

The Cryptic Countdown

The Cryptic Countdown

Edition: 1st

Copyright © 2013 Tas Boyce

Smashwords Edition

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the prior written permission of the publisher.

The information, views, opinions and visuals expressed in this publication are solely those of the author(s) and do not reflect those of the publisher. The publisher disclaims any liabilities or responsibilities whatsoever for any damages, libel or liabilities arising directly or indirectly from the contents of this publication.

A copy of this publication can be found in the National Library of Australia.

ISBN: 978-1-742843-79-7 (pbk.)

Published by Book Pal

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Dedication

This novel, The Cryptic Countdown, is dedicated to the core values of Mental Illness Fellowship Victoria (commonly known as MI Fellowship, or MIF).

MI Fellowship is a not-for-profit, member-based organisation, and works directly with thousands of people each year, supporting them on their paths to recovery, creating better lives for people with mental illness and their families. It assists them to find or develop the internal resources they need in their recovery (such as hope, resilience, coping skills, self-acceptance and physical health) and the external services and supports that will enable their recovery and independence (such as stable accommodation, education and employment support).

It is important to keep an open mind on mental illness, where opportunities to improve the quality of life and a chance to end stigma are also accompanied by a growing voice for change. All Australians can help to dispel the myths and the isolation currently associated with mental illness.

The MIF has a vision of a society in which mental illness will be understood and accepted. For information about Mental Illness Fellowship Victoria, use the following contact details:-

Telephone: [phone]

MI Fellowship Helpline: 03 8486 4222

Website: www.mifellowship.org

Tas Boyce

Prologue

The word ‘serendipity’ refers to the faculty of making happy and unexpected discoveries by accident.

I have been serendipitously fortunate in sourcing many ideas by this means in articulating this novel.

I hope and trust that readers will appreciate such good luck cum inspiration.

I also thank Trevor Horwood for introducing me to the ideas of the ′Inner Game of Tennis - The Classic Guide to the Peak Side of Mental Performance’ by W. Timothy Gallwey. This book, first published in 1972, illustrates how the subconscious mind knows how to overcome self-doubt and nervousness, and how to play automatic, instinctive and spontaneous tennis shots with a minimum of control by the conscious mind. It portrays how the unconscious part of the mind knows how to execute stroke-making, as well as directing the whole person to function normally in a smooth and anxiety-free state. It has been a real revelation.

Tas Boyce

Synopsis

The Cryptic Countdown

The setting is in the beautiful Dandenong Ranges east of Melbourne where ‘hills’ communities are located. The tennis-playing mates of Hans de Jong provide both enjoyment and solace to him at the Mountain Dale Tennis Club. Whilst Barry Warren, a close friend of Hans undergoes minor discomfort from his medical concerns, Hans is beset with schizophrenia. The thought processes and behaviour patterns of such a sufferer are outlined, as well as his awareness of a ‘personal countdown’.

One particular psychotic episode merges with the reality of the American Venus space probe in 1989. Hans, suffering psychotic delusions, makes a desperate attempt to forestall the Venus countdown and space launch. One of his tennis pals, Mervyn Trevor, a great clubman, plays an important part in a steadying role as well as transporting him to Maroondah Hospital.

Detained in a psychiatric ward Hans develops and refines a cryptic message to be delivered to Prime Minister Bob Hawke with the aim of avoiding Armageddon on Earth. Hans resolutely and singlehandedly attempts to save the world.

There is a love angle in the book, which is a pre-sequel to ‘The Tree Fern Taboo’. There is a suggestion that a more spiritual existence is needed, if life is to be fully enjoyed. Strong character development is blended in with a story of utter confusion, triumph, ascent to a higher plane of consciousness, the gaining of wisdom and personal fulfilment.

Everyone should go mad occasionally.

Also incorporated into the story is a hint that mental illness needs to be more understood in terms of a reaction to overwhelming change, rather than merely an expression of psychiatric disorder.

It is further suggested that individuals like Hans can develop new mental powers and abilities arising from what are known as ‘Near-Death Experiences’.

Foreword

Trevor Horwood

I have known Tas Boyce for many years, having played Winter Pennant competition tennis with him for the Hawthorn Tennis Club, and I have also often visited him at his home at Ferny Creek, to hit tennis balls on his tennis court, for a number of years.

His novel, The Cryptic Countdown, gives an interesting account of some of the problems that may be encountered by persons with mental illness.

In addition, the novel also makes reference to the importance of the core values held by the Mental Illness Fellowship of Victoria, which relate to the desirability of an open mind being kept on mental illness where opportunities exist to improve the quality of life and to end stigma.

For these reasons, I am most happy to write this foreword to Tas’s work, and to wish him well for its success.

Trevor Horwood

Author’s Notes

The notion of mental illness produces a discordant reaction in some peoples’ consciousness. This is unfortunate, as mental disorders are a normal and everyday occurrence for large numbers of people from all walks of life. No one wants to be stigmatised because of a chemical imbalance in the brain that is usually no fault of his or her own.

The following story is loosely based on events that were experienced by the author many years ago. In no way do I feel ashamed or embarrassed by these mental conditions that were experienced. It is important that everyone comes to accept mental illness not only as a debilitating and socially isolating problem, but also as a challenge that could affect any individual. Sufferers should be accepted; normal people with medical problems are deserving of respect, human compassion and support. Modern treatments, including appropriate medication, ameliorate the more obvious symptoms.

In essence, The Cryptic Countdown chronicles a brief personal history of one individual who, despite being affected by acute psychiatric issues, ultimately rises to a higher level of consciousness and spirituality.

Hans de Jong’s tennis compatriots add depth and colour to his life and reveal that human connections are a vital force in remaining vibrant and focused.

Subsequent to his psychotic episodes, Hans comes to develop high order insights and a newfound awareness. Hans’s psychological recovery culminates in his deep belief in God and His/Her omnipotent power over the destiny of the universe.

In the third book in the trilogy, The Hidden Psychic Truth (yet to be published), Hans de Jong comes to doubt the existence of God and believes his former belief is nothing but a delusion triggered by his mind playing tricks on him. This story in The Cryptic Countdown is an attempt to disclose a small cameo portrayal of the vast array of scenarios cascading on a schizophrenic patient at any one moment in time.

Fantastic mental delusions are not the only symptom of a psychic disorder. Behaviour involving a withdrawal from social contact, depression, inactivity and even secretive action can also be present. In some unfortunate instances, anti-social and violent behaviour may be present. In my case, I felt as though I was a stronger and better person after the event. However, was it schizophrenia? When you expect the worst, you cannot live the best.

I thank my literary agent, Dr. Geoff Haw, of Sagacity Services, once again for his continuing excellent efforts. They are much appreciated, as is also his friendship.

Trevor Horwood is a fit, youthful and active 90-year-old former engineer who first played pennant tennis (LTAV), aged 16 years, in 1939, and who has been playing competitive tennis almost continually up to the present. His game is sound and formidable. Trevor has been a good friend to me, and a faithful doubles partner; a person the better for knowing. I thank Trevor for his foreword.

I acknowledge Alex Maisey, not only for his lyrebird image, but also for his collaborative work in organising some of the photographs scattered throughout the novel.

I also thank Mick Sheehy, Acting Principal of Upwey High School, for permission to use photographic images of the aforementioned school.

I pay my respects to P.M.H. Atwater, author of ‘Near-Death-Experiences’, as I have included several extracts from her classic book.

I further acknowledge Nick Anchen’s book – ‘The Cuckoo,’ for information referred to in The Cryptic Countdown. Information about the famous Cuckoo Restaurant in Olinda is appreciated, being available on public record.

I also recognise NASA Headquarters Washington, DC, USA, for use of two photographic images, plus other material.

Tas Boyce

CONTENTS

Dedication

Prologue

Synopsis

Foreword

Author’s Notes

Chapter 1

Diabetic Desperation and Rattled Minds

Chapter 2

Tennis Club Affairs and Marital Problems!

Chapter 3

School Teaching and Playing Tennis

Chapter 4

Enjoying Club Life and Healthy Fellowhsip

Chapter 5

Puzzles of Schizophrenia Meet a Social Event

Chapter 6

Barry Meets Romance at the Cuckoo

Chapter 7

Hans Slides into Another Psychotic Episode: The Countdown to Doom

Chapter 8

Hans Administers the Venus Space Probe from his Hospital Ward

Chapter 9

A Change for the Better: Bush-Walking as Therapy

Chapter 10

Hans Reflects on a Life with a Higher Power

Chapter 11

Hans Discovers New Insights in his Inner Self

Chapter 12

Learning Lessons of Life: The Past is the Future

Reference Sources

About the Author

THE CRYPTIC COUNTDOWN

Chapter 1

Diabetic Desperation and Rattled Minds

As a child, I played hide and seek. The secret in deferring detection was to find a good hideout, to remain completely still and to await eventual discovery. No matter how chameleon-like one made oneself, the game was simple: the seeker knew how many bodies were hiding and the limits of where to look.

How do I know if I have Diabetes at all, Let Alone the Hypoglycaemic Kind?

I am Barry Warren of Fairview Avenue, Ferny Creek, 34 years old and have had no known links with diabetes (apart from a cousin on my mother’s side), despite a variety of child-hood illnesses, including acute polio.

My head is spinning with dizzying queries, as I sit here and go through a process of self-interrogation.

My realisation has been of the sudden, inspirational kind that develops an instant, yet intuitive understanding that this is no maturity onset variety, but something which has been with me from birth (and in others of my family where it also has been undetected).

Although I lead a full life (probably over-burdened with too many needless distractions), I nevertheless try to maintain my fitness with regular jogging in Sherbrooke Forest. Perhaps this is merely contributing to a bodily over-load? I believe I have been pushing my body too much and going beyond its healthy limits. I also intuitively sensed that I was not getting sufficient rest. Whilst I believe I eat satisfactorily, I probably do need to improve my diet. We are supposed to be what we eat,

My diary maps out my evolving understanding of the diabetes disorder.

i)    Up to Friday, April 21, 1989: No known links with diabetes and no clear idea at all what my current disorder involves. Had recently been avoiding sugar in drinks and in confectionery (and I do normally have a sweet tooth) to lose a couple of kilograms. Felt terrible – the head and body were suffering shock waves. Symptoms included dizziness, fits of faint spells, inability to concentrate, illogical fears, inner trembling and physical signs such as stress headaches, blurred vision, loss of appetite, and ringing in the ears were evident. Overcame fear of inability to drive and underwent voluntary admission to the Emergency Ward of the Angliss Hospital in Tree Fern Gully. A series of tests revealed no abnormalities, even though I thought I was dying. There’s nothing wrong with you, Sir. Went home unconvinced. Strange. I know something was dreadfully wrong.

ii)    Saturday, April 22, 1989: Dawning of ideas that seek to understand the nature of illness that terrified over previous three days and today. Gradual development of conceptual framework after reading about blood sugar problems in an article by Teresa McLean entitled ‘Metal Jam – My Life With Diabetes’ in the April 1989 edition of the Readers Digest. This article contained information that further strengthened my belief that I have diabetes of the insidious low blood sugar variety, which can have serious effects on the main organs of the body, as well as the mind and circulatory system. This form of diabetes can hide itself very well.

iii)    Sunday, April 23: Have tested myself with food and now know how to recognise high blood sugar condition and low blood sugar condition.

iv)    Monday, April 24: Last night (Sunday, April 23) went to bed with symptoms similar to that of hyperglycaemia (an excess of glucose in the bloodstream). Had pigged out on excessive food intake Sunday. Felt bloated. Slept heavily, interrupted only by three nocturnal visits to the toilet. Reached for the routine glass of water each time, and deep sleep was always resumed on re-entry to bed. On the first visit to the toilet, something made me go outside. The moon was full, and some twenty minutes of deep breathing was invigorating. In Melbourne, Autumn is characterised by high pressure systems where the night air is fresh, the moon and stars clearly outlined and aesthetically tranquilising. So-called ‘lunatics’ may not merely be potential werewolves but desperate people drawn outdoors by their autonomous selves to charge their lungs with oxygen. I retired to bed on that occasion somewhat more refreshed. Perhaps an uninterrupted oxygen supply is the answer to alleviate the symptoms that I had earlier associated with diabetes. On awakening today, I no longer have the head tension and stabs of bodily pain from the eyes and other parts of the body. I still sense a feeling of heaviness, which lingers from the Sunday food binge, but am slightly improved in myself.

Wednesday, April 19; Thursday, April 20 and Friday, April 21 revisited. My swings in mood and in varied levels of blood sugars (so I imagined) had started. On Wednesday, April 19, the bodily systems didn’t have the capacity for normal activities. I was weak, fearful, drained and suffering; curling up and resting was the only response possible for that difficult day. The head, chest and