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Magic Theory Blog Series 8: The Importance of Variational Methods
In our 8th installment of our "Magic Theory Blog Series" we visit Liderc's post about the importance of being able to perform an effect using various methods.
The original forum thread is here - The Importance of Variational Methods.
The Importance Of Variational Methods
Spectators don't or shouldn't be savvy on what 'Method' we use to achieve the 'Result' be it .. Osterlinds or Banacheks.. so does the method we actually utilize in performances matter?
For that matter, if you had a 'Nail Writer,' could you not make a living off of that? Would you need other 'Methods' to achieve a 'Prediction' or 'Mind Reading'?
If your 'Retention Vanish' is spot on.. would you need to purchase 'Alchemy'?
I believe you are following the path now and where I am leading you.
'Methods' are 'Situational' and also 'Character Based' and that is how you should approach all 'Magic/Mentalism.'
One should be well versed in many 'Methods' and ways to 'Achieve' a desired result for any situation.
Ponder this..
You are a 'Mentalist' and all you use is a 'Nail Writer' - you are in a situation where there is no 'Paper' and you have none on you. What do you do?
Maybe that new 'Effect' is the most visual, but will you honestly ever utilize it? Would you ever be in that 'Situation,' and does it truly fit your character? One must be completely honest with oneself.
Sure one might look 'Cool' blowing smoke out of one's mouth, or stopping one's pulse.. but at what cost?
So indeed.. 'Methods' are important up to a certain point - some are 'cleaner' then others, and some are more 'motivated' by ones personal 'Character' then others. Just because one method is seemingly 'Superior' to another doesn't mean your 'Character' will motivate its actions - in which case it becomes 'Inferior.'
Now On The Other Side Of A Double Faced Coin...
One should never get 'Hung Up' on acquiring every 'Method' in the literature. Whilst we all search for the 'One' method, we should still be focusing on the ones we utilize to perfection.
"If One Want To Be Known For Something... Take That And Make It Perfect.. Make It Superior To Anyone Else. Only Then Will You Be 'KNOWN' For Something."
Note from V: Not much more to add here, Liderc has covered this topic well.
Know enough methods for an "effect" such that you can replicate the effect in various situations, depending on where you are, what you have on you, who your performing for, etc.
It is better to learn and master those few methods and be set to put on a quality performance with them, than to be mediocre in 50 different methods - possibly 45 of which you will never use.
Comments
Thanks for your comment EmptyQuiver, you got it, I agree... the effect is the most important, and the best method is the simplest method. Of course, it is good to know a few methods so that you are prepared to perform the same effect in any situation. Cheers!
Whilst Simplicity is essential, one must not fail to realize the importance of 'Method' Likewise, at times one must sacrifice 'Simple' for 'Cleanliness' 'Magical Result' Etc, so whilst the 'Affect' must be held in high regard, Likewise the Method, and it's variants
I've seen Darren Brown use three different methods for one effect.
He did an effect with twins on his U.S. television show a few years back. He demonstrated three examples of the twin's E.S.P.-like connection and he used a different method each time. Very devious. Very smart. And... proving V Marra's point in the real world.
Derrens Performances are not 'Real World', or other performers who have it Captured for Pictures,
as i stated, 'Simplicity' is essential, as not to become 'Convoluted' with Methodology, though if it commences to compromise the 'Affect', then should be refrained from
Yes, I believe the simplest method to achieve an effect in a given situation is the best method (of course, in some situations a simple method is not possible), and indeed one should not compromise the effect/affect just for the sake of simplicity.
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Perception
Clearly, the effect is more important than the method.
Of course I'm presuming that the method is hidden because of the practice and skills of the magician.
Only we magicians seem to care that we can do an effect with a complicated or "new" method. Only the end result matters.
Like Michale Close says... When we are done, the spectator should be stuck saying, "It could only be done with magic... But there's no such thing as magic... but it could only be done with magic!"
If they can even just "make up" an method in their head, then they can dismiss the effect. We want to leave them with an itch they can't scratch. (NOT a puzzle, but magic.)