Some friends have scolded me for not letting them know about this sooner, so I'll put the word out here, and that way I can honestly say I made a formal announcement! The fifteenth anniversary issue of Magic magazine includes my new column, "The Magic Word." It starts in the September issue, which is arriving in mailboxes and magic shops as I type. That's the announcement, which, come to think of it, wasn't very formal.

David,

What does the column discuss?

Looking forward to it!

Bond

The column will examine the magic that is just beneath the surface of words we may view as ordinary. Each month a new word will be explored, and I'll explain why I think that an expanded understanding of the word, or looking at the word from a different perspective, could reveal a meaning that would be helpful and important to magicians. I hope it's surprising and fun and that it encourages magicians to spend some time thinking about the words we use -- or should be using.

It sounds very interesting!

Good deal, I think more magicians should take a look at what they are saying in there routines. It is a good idea to “cut the fat”. In other words get rid of anything that doesn’t need to be there or add any missing elements.

I will be looking forward to reading your column.

Sounds great! Especially since I just subscribed again!
Thank you Mr. Parr!!!

That is an awesome idea... There is way too much meaningless patter in magic and this could a step towards ending that trend.

Alex

Great, I am going to read it right now.

jd

My description of "The Magic Word" was a bit vague, because I don't want to take the sense of discovery out of reading it. The column is not really a guide to script-writing, although I may broach that subject at some point. It's more of a contemplation on words that we use every day and how they might apply -- or be better applied -- to magic.

I always make sure to read David's article in MAGIC. There is a lot of thought put into these. You should also check out his book "Brain Food". I have read through this book twice. You always pick up something else everytime you read it.
Regards,
Jim

Hi Jim. Good to see you here! Thanks for your kind assessment of my work. I'm pleased to know that you're enjoying "The Magic Word."

As I've suggested elsewhere on this site, I hope readers who like the columns and articles offered in Magic will consider sending Stan Allen a note to let him know that they appreciate the direction in which he's taking the magazine. Send email to Stan at: editor(at)magicmagazine.com

A few words of encouragement go a long way!

David,
Will do. Hopefully we will see you at the Knights of Sleights Flea Market again this year. It will be held at the same location (and the night before) as the collectors convention.

Best regards,
Jim