User Profile

For the past year, I've been struggling to learn magic: the very basic techniques, the misdirection, the showmanship. I'm an amateur at best, but I've got a couple unique things going for me. One, I'm a woman, and there are very few female magic enthusiasts. And two, I have a broad appreciation for magic that extends beyond performing tricks myself. I'm fascinated by the psychology, the science, and the history of magic. At this point I'd consider myself a first-hand spectator rather than a magician, a title I'm slowly working towards.

My favorite kind of magic to watch and learn is very simple, sophisticated close up magic. For my money, cards, coins, and mentalism are unbeatable. Flashy stage magic and highly gimmicked props only play off the spectators' eyes, not their cognitive and psychological processes. I'm also not a fan of "stunt" magic for precisely the same reason. It's the unassuming, mundane appearance of everyday objects that produce the most crippling effects--something motorcycle jumps and tigers just can't do.

This journal is really just for myself. I'm keeping a record of what I love about magic and what I'm struggling with so I can process what I'm learning. This is a hobby of mine, not my career or life's work. I won't be revealing any tricks here and any sensitive information will be locked or private, so don't add this journal if you're looking for giveaways. Do add it if you're interested in magic at all, especially if you're also learning or wouldn't mind giving advice.