“Carnage”

Press, Volume CVI, Issue 31085, 14 June 1966, Page 16

“Carnage”

Sir, —I feel that the senior police officer quoted in criticism of the new student game, “Carnage,” should have attempted to acquire a little knowledge of the game before making such rash statements. “Carnage” is basically a social activity and is just a bit of fun, no worse than any other sport, and an excellent way of developing initiative and a vivid imagination, qualities rarely condoned in New Zealand. As a potential crime-inspirer, its effect is far less significant than that of a James Bond film, where the ability to commit brutal assault and murder, and all manner of sin, is regarded as a much-sought-after virtue and is widely publicised. “Carnage” is much more humane, healthy, and intellectual than the sick “sports” of wrestling, boxing, and the sadistic and purposeless slaughter of defenceless animals which is so popular here. —Yours, etc., CARNIVORE. June 13, 1966.

Sir, —Before our “senior police officer” makes his feelings on “Carnage” public, he should find out more about it. This game, which has reached a peak of popularity on the Continent, is a harmless but mentally stimulating stunt which may beat the boredom of winter Christchurch. The local rules stipulate that bodily contact • is not necessary. The hunter, with an ingenious method of killing, merely has to confront his victim. The public will be pleased to know that for every innocent bystander “killed,” the hunter loses a point. Is this an example of the animosity which certain sections of the community bear toward the student body? Perhaps we could have an edict on Cowboys and Indians, too? By the way, I am quite satisfied with my bursary.—Yours, etc., ILAM STUDENT. June 12, 1966.