The Tunnel Thru the Air by W.D. Gann is a novel that many believe holds mysterious and esoteric secrets. In the foreword, Gann hints at "a valuable secret, clothed in veiled language," encouraging readers to look beyond the surface. This analysis dives into some of the possible hidden meanings, hoping to inspire others to uncover the deeper layers of Gann's enigmatic work.
Clues in the Title: "The Tunnel Thru the Air or, Looking Back from 1940"
The title alone gives us two intriguing clues. The use of the slang spelling “Thru” and the reference to the year 1940 stand out. Although the book’s events culminate in 1932, the mention of 1940 might indicate something beyond the plot. Oddly, the "Tunnel" in the title doesn’t play a central role in the story, suggesting it might be symbolic rather than literal—an artifact hiding something deeper.
The Mystical Number 69 and Zodiac Symbolism
Gann repeatedly uses the number 69 in connection with his protagonist, Robert Gordon. Robert was born on June 9, 1906, works on 69 Wall St., and the “Jonah key” appears on page 69. The number 69 also resembles the astrological symbol for Cancer, a sign ruled by the Moon. This is noteworthy given Gann’s use of lunar cycles and the concept of “three days and three nights in the heart of the Earth,” linking the story to lunar phases, resurrection, and rebirth, as with Jesus' three-day entombment.
Astrological Hints and Robert's Quest for Marie
Astrology is embedded throughout the novel, with Robert seeking guidance on when he will reunite with his love, Marie. Professor Joyful, an astrologer, predicts their reunion in New York—a city ruled by Cancer—while Robert's Venus resides in Cancer. At another point, an astrologer from Canada notes Venus and Mars changing signs, hinting that a conjunction between these two planets could reunite Robert and Marie.
Interestingly, if we cast a horoscope for June 5, 1927, when Marie writes a farewell note to Robert, Venus and Mars are in Cancer. However, they wouldn’t align in this sign again until August 1932. This alignment hints at a powerful moment of reunion, emphasized by a heliocentric ephemeris showing another conjunction in Cancer in February 1929, explaining a sunny, hopeful day Robert experiences in Paris.
The Significance of August 30, 1932, and the Lunar Return
Why did Gann choose August 30, 1932, at 11 a.m. as the reunion date and time for Robert and Marie? Given Gann’s precise placement of details, it seems unlikely this timing was arbitrary. If one casts a horoscope for this exact moment, the Moon returns to the same position it held at their parting, symbolizing a Lunar Return. This astrological event, like a Solar Return for birthdays, could signify reunion and emotional closure, suggesting Gann meticulously aligned the plot with celestial movements.
Riddles in the Title and Hidden Numerology
Looking closer, one might notice parallels between the titles “The Tunnel Thru the Air” and “The Lunar Return.” Adding an “r” and some numerological analysis led to further discoveries. Using the Pythagorean method, where numbers correspond to letters, the author speculated that Gann’s hidden title could be something along the lines of “From the Lunar Return, looking back to his mother.” This interpretation aligns with the plot, which begins with Robert’s mother, Amelia Gordon, and ends with a return to her influence.
An Invitation to Explore Gann's Mysteries
Through astrological references, symbolic numbers, and hidden numerology, Gann created a story filled with secrets waiting to be uncovered. The Tunnel Thru the Air might appear to be a novel, but it’s also a puzzle—one that invites readers to search beyond the surface for profound truths about time, love, and the cosmos. Sagar Chaudhary care@ganntradingmethod.com www.ganntradingmethod.com
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