Let's go back in time together to the primitive societies of long ago. These societies all had a 'social institution' known as the Men's Hut. This Hut was a place of taboo and secret lore (and occasionally, a retreat from women, work, and tribal dogs.)
Gaining entry into the Men's Hut, and therefore those deep dark tribal secrets, was a major achievement. Those who weren't allowed in continually dreamed of how much better their lives would be if they somehow found access into the hut. The key episodes were the trails and appropriate rituals to mark the event. (No, reaching puberty wasn't enough.)
This pattern is still followed today (not the same rituals, fortunately) by the Elks, Moose, and maybe even more so with magic clubs and "inner circles." Now, it is rare for the inner workings of an organization to function as it is commonly understood to function by the public. The reason, no doubt, is that it couldn't, and pretense is necessary to maintain the allegiance of the faithful, the recruits, lower echelons, and the public. A 32nd degree Mason knows more of the secrets of his organization than does the novice - and just as certainly he is more committed to the organization and consequently more trustworthy of having these secrets. So it is with the average magic club or "inner circle."
Meanwhile back at the Men's Hut....
Such emphasis is placed on the uniqueness of membership, and the secrets to be learned, that the new member looked upon himself as 'suddenly' being better or wiser just by entering. People look at him, and even treat him differently. However, most new comers are surprised on their first trip inside the Men's Hut. There was no deep magic or powerful spells to be learned. There was no demon, friendly or otherwise, which protected the hut and taught the secrets of life. All that he found were some paintings, dusty animal skins, and some herbs. He probably didn't understand all this, but one thing is certain: he would not reveal his findings to any 'non-member'. This would lessen the importance of his being accepted. In fact, if he were to explain to others that the Men's Hut was just a 'cover', he probably wouldn't have been believed. So this primitive man, who knew nothing of psychology, TV dinners, or inside flush toilets began to play a 'role.' As the years passed this role playing would transform itself into an actual state-of-mind, and as subtle as this difference may be, it was the very thing which gave the Men's Hut its strength.
Things are much the same today concerning secret sessions and inner circles in magic. When a newcomer first begins to attend conventions he might see the stars of magic hanging out together. He would then think to himself, "If only I could know what they were saying. If only I knew the revolutionary sleights and new routines they know...how great I would be."
As the years pass, our newcomer is fortunate enough to become close to some of these men, and participate in some of these sessions. And, much like the primitive man from long ago, he finds no such "real magic" or incredible methods of performing. Maybe there was a new move here and there, or a higher level of technical skill, but anyone can acquire these with time.
So it may, at first glance, seem that these jealously guarded secrets and intimate participation in restricted circles often turns out to be either trivial, disappointing or both. However, the real truth is hidden, concerning the Men's Hut and inner social circles. It is hidden because it deals with the intangible. An intangible is a state-of-mind - an attitude. Perhaps by understanding these thoughts and concepts we can learn and progress even faster than our primitive friend.
So, as it turns out, there really is a difference between those inside the Men's Hut and those on the outside. What puts us miles ahead is that through concentrated effort and attention, we can achieve this state of mind today without going through rituals or actually taking part in 'secret sessions.' By reading these thoughts, I hope to initiate your unique journey 'into the Men's Hut.' Pretense will be pushed aside, as I attempt to learn some of the intangibles which can be so elusive. You may not leave the Men's Hut a better technician, but hopefully your thoughts, attitudes, and therefore your performing will improve.
Among other things, the following intangibles will be considered:
The benefits of utilizing misdirection which begins with increased eye contact. "It's in the eye..."
The overwhelming importance of naturalness and uniformity of movement in the execution of sleights (especially at close quarters).
The incredible difference in results when you realize you are as important as the tricks you do.
The ability to make your magic more pleasing to the eye by pacing yourself and develping a certain rhythm. Making your magic and misdirection more effective by occasionally breaking your rhythm, and employing pauses, beats, etc. Mike Skinner compares this to changing gears in a car.
Increasing personal pleasure derived from magic by performing for people - as opposed to a mirror. Actually taking an interest in those watching, and involving yourself with them.
Understanding congruence. Appearing more professional by thinking about the people and the situation, and deciding what will be the best thing to perform every time you perform.
Clearly defining what the effect would look like if you were really magic.
Understanding the limitations of imitation, and the vast potential behind revealing who you already are.
These are just some of the intangibles. Of course, they may mean something different to all who read them, and there are many which can only relate to the individual who discovers them. But there lies the key: be aware of these intangibles, look for them, practice them, and respect them.
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