Solar eclipse inspires talk of Pac-man and Shinto myths

Wednesday evening brought a rare solar eclipse to the South West, captivating onlookers from Sidmouth to Cornwall. The celestial event commenced at around 19:00 BST as the Moon traversed between Earth and the Sun, casting a crescent shadow across the sky. Children in attendance marveled at the sight, describing it as a "once in a lifetime opportunity." Charlie remarked on the "magical" atmosphere, while others noted the surreal appearance of the Sun as a "banana."

Some marked birthdays and anniversaries during the eclipse, imbuing the evening with a romantic aura. Alice was particularly struck by the eclipse's resemblance to the video game character Pac-Man. Commander Dave Lee, a member of the Royal Navy's Parachute Display Team, likened the experience to that of parachuting into Pendennis Castle, feeling a profound sense of immediacy and freedom.

David Heathfield recounted the myth of Amano-Iwato, the Japanese goddess of the sun who sought refuge in a cave to prevent light from reaching the world.

In Cornwall, individuals gathered at various sites, including Bude and a stone circle on the moors. Observers remarked on the "strange" and "surreal" nature of the event, with one person calling it "very spiritual." Mark observed a change in wildlife behavior, noting that birds returned to their roosts as the eclipse unfolded. All in all, the solar eclipse proved a captivating and unforgettable spectacle for those fortunate enough to witness it.