THE HERMIT OF MANANA

[@greyjay9202]

Thanks for sharing a bit of Ray's story, Elizabeth. Having lived a mostly solitary life, by choice, for many years, in a small Maine town, I can identify with Ray's need for freedom, solitude, and autonomy. He lived on his own terms, and died the same way. My hat is off to him. I'm reminded of what Thoreau said to a minister, who came to visit him as he was dying. The minister said: Would you like to make your peace with God? Never one to tolerate fools, Thoreau answered: God and I have never quarreled. I think Ray would have appreciated that answer.

[@brandoneckert2694]

What small town are you from? I’m originally from Cushing Maine.

[@TheOleHermit]

Thank you for posting this homage to Mr. Ray Phillips. Very interesting and revealing that back then, although this man chose to live in seclusion, many people went out of their way to visit, write, and care for him. Guess that's why those are called the good old days.😎

[@matthewjohnson2853]

Your right the good old days, won't see those days anymore!

[@aldolh48]

In the early 1960's as a kawanee (Weld, ME) camper we visited Manana and were allowed to meet and tour the Hermit's house. We were asked to bring to Ray a magazine or a candy bar. I do not remember much but he did look you in the eye when presented with your gift. I do not remember any conversation.

[@samdinerstein1962]

im so happy this exists!! Spent some time in Monhegan this summer and was so fascinated by the isolated house on the island adjacent. it is seriously magical there.

[@CelticMaineiac]

Elizabeth, I enjoyed your film and am glad that you created a visual memory of the Hermit Of Manana. I first learned of Ray when I visited the island in the late 90's. There were newspaper stories of him in the Monhegan Museum, which I found interesting. I always wanted to follow up and learn more about him. On this dark Maine day, I followed through and caught your film. He was certainly a non-conformist who had the guts to live life HIS way. Thanks.

[@steelyman08]

I couldn't live quite as remotely as Ray (hat's off to him, though!), but I'd love be on Monhegan or somewhere similar. I think he found something very special that few could ever understand. His eyes and face, etc., don't betray any lurking insecurity or meanness. He looks wild and at peace. Thanks for the upload :-)

[@selexperience9094]

I knew Ray, he was always an inspiration. RIP Ray

[@timholcomb9926]

Lord knows I can live that way

[@28ashcat]

First "discovered" Mohegan in the mid 1980's. Been going there off and on every few years since. Always wanted to go over to Manana Island to explore. Maybe next visit. Thanks for the video.

[@DavidWoodArtist]

Imagine that wanting to be a hermit and live that way and have all these fuckers come and bother you....he might of been happier further off.

[@sylnyc2705]

Hi Elisabeth. Found your Cityvisions 2005 postcard for the movie. So glad it's up here and alive~!!! This is really a story of a man who left everything behind. This one of the few very thesis films I was truly excited about. Great work~!!!

[@keithwaters3439]

🧡🌼🌼🌼🙏🏻

[@LostCaper]

What year did he die and how old was he.

[@regbillings4955]

Green Acres ,Ray passed away on May 8th 1974 from a heart attack on the island.