Fredrick Turner

Reflections

Commentary

  • Strange Phenomenon

    Recently I’ve noticed a trend of magic effect trailers where the workings are exposed. I became aware of a small independent creator that has all of their tutorials posted on their website to view whether you purchased an item or not. I find this to be a curious decision. In the days of magic shops,… Continue reading

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  • The Mystery School Book

    In my recent post on books that aren’t just effects or just theory and philosophy, I neglected to mention one of my favorites. It’s such a favorite that I happen to have two copies: one pristine for reading and one with printing errors but filled with signatures and inscriptions from the various contributors. While Eugene… Continue reading

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  • Mixing It Up

    Reflecting recently on the magic books I return to often, I realized that they tend to be ones that have a mix of effects and essays by the artist. The essays can be philosophical, advice, or an interview by the artist. Here are a few examples (in alphabetical by artist): The Magic of Michael Ammar… Continue reading

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  • Taxonomies of Magic

    The September 6, 2024 newsletter from Jeff Kowalk, the Erudite Magician and CFO of Vanishing Inc. discussed the evergreen taxonomy of magicians. He used the classifications of collector, family and friends performer, part-time professional, and full time professional to describe the community. The full time professional is at the top of hierarchy as they earn… Continue reading

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  • Lie to Me

    Thanks to the free streaming services I’ve recently rewatched the series, Lie to Me, starring Tim Roth at his quirky best and the lovely and talented Kelli Williams. The idea of lying has always been intriguing to me – not only as a magician but as a human interacting with the world. One evening I… Continue reading

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  • Revisiting: The Quarterly Issue 1

    I can’t recall exactly how I learned of The Quarterly – probably from a friend who also loves small run magic magazines. No matter as I am grateful, it was a delightful publication. The Quarterly was the brainchild of the award winning magician, Helder Guimarães. It was edited by Dr. Will Houstoun who I was… Continue reading

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  • Book Notes: Foundation

    Like many other Apple + subscribers, we enjoyed the series Foundation, based on the Isaac Asimov books. While I read a few of Asimov’s robot series years ago, I never ventured into the world of Foundation. A few months ago, I remedied that with a tithe purchase at a favorite bookstore. The initial trilogy of… Continue reading

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