Are Magicians Amazed by Their Own Magic Tricks?

Amateur magicians often seek out magic tricks that amaze them personally. Of course, the perception of a magic trick varies between a magician and an audience member. For a magician, a trick is seen as more of a puzzle than simply a performance. If a magician can't explain a trick in its entirety, they remain intrigued and practice to perfect it.

The Amazement Factor

While amateur magicians find novel tricks fascinating, for professional magicians, the excitement is often more about the reactions and the elegance of a simple trick. What amazes a magician are the audience's reactions and how a seemingly simple trick can still fool even intelligent spectators. This is a unique kind of amazement, one that is inspired by the complexity and simplicity intertwined in a well-executed magic performance.

The Performer's Perspective

Professional magicians, when asked if they are amazed by their own tricks, most say "no," simply because the routine becomes a part of their performance and has been practiced extensively. Think of actors and singers who do not become astounded by their own performances. However, there are instances when a magician might feel "in the zone," exceeding their expectations and performing exceptionally well.

Sometimes, magicians are amazed by a trick because of the simplicity of the method, despite the advance in complexity. This simplicity does not mean the trick is easy to perform, but rather, it impresses due to its effectiveness.

The Observer’s Perspective

Watching other magicians can also amaze a magician. The presentation and skill of a fellow magician, even if the method is known, can lead to admiration and amazement due to the unique way it is performed. This is a great demonstration of the impact of presenting an effect rather than just the trick itself.

Magic professionals often prefer the term "effect" over "trick," as "effect" connotes a more complex and impressive performance, while "trick" often suggests something too simple or too easy.

Personal Amazement and Enlightenment

Sometimes, the professional magician is amazed by a trick because of an unexpected principle behind the effect. These principles are often mathematical or related to card tricks. One such principle is the Gilbreath Principle, which is a mind-reading effect that baffles both the magician and the audience due to its complexity and mystery. Even when the magician knows the secret, the principle remains a mystery and can lead to an unexpected feeling of amazement.

Practical Application: The Gilbreath Principle

Let's consider the Gilbreath Principle, a principle used in card tricks. This principle is so complicated and elegant that it continues to amaze even after a magician has known it for years. Professor Marc Normand demonstrates this principle beautifully in this video, showing its complexity and elegance.

The Riffle Shuffle Principle

Another principle that amazes even seasoned magicians is the riffle shuffle. A good riffle shuffle can turn a simple card trick into something spectacular. The principle here is to maintain the order of the cards during a shuffle, which is surprisingly difficult to achieve.

Apply the riffle shuffle principle in your own magic tricks for a thrilling and elegant performance. You'll be amazed every time you perform it!

Conclusion

Magic tricks amaze magicians in unique ways. It is their reactions, the elegance of the trick, and the unexpected principles behind the effects that keep them amazed even after years of practice. The term "effect" captures this complexity better than the term "trick."

References Dartagnan’s Answer on Magic Stack Exchange Charles S.’s Answer on Magic Stack Exchange Video by Marc Normand demonstrating the Gilbreath Principle