Voynich Authorship

[Mark Knowles]

I don't detect anything in the illustrations and diagrams that might require serious concealment, but who knows?

I think the idea that you and others have explored to a connection between Ramon Llull and the Voynich cipher is an interesting one. I felt it important that I made some investigation into Ramon Llull a few years ago, in order to be thorough and investigate all options, though I had by that time developed my theory to the point where I believed that the connection was to diplomatic ciphers. I am very much of the opinion that the Voynich cipher or system comes from a pre-existing tradition and did not emerge out of a void, whether that tradition be a Llullian one or a diplomatic one or some other is a worthy topic of debate. Some researchers present theories of the system by which the Voynich was written without any contemporary historic context. It is possible there was no historical context and the Voynich system was invented once and only for that manuscript or that none of its influences survive, however I, personally, find that doubtful.

I share your opinion that there is a cartographic interpretation to the Rosettes foldout, as quite a number of other people have, although my map of a journey, itinerary style map interpretation clearly differs from yours. I was very fortunate to discuss the subject with Professor Paul Harvey whose book "Medieval Maps" is very interesting.

I am one who believes that on the whole people presenting bold and challenging theories is a good thing and not to be discouraged, so in that respect I congratulate you in your efforts.