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kriskraze Special user 620 Posts |
How difficult should it be to become a mentalist?
I'm prompted to ask this after reading this thread: http://www.themagiccafe.com/forums/viewt......um=15&14 Someone with a single post asks for a reference to an effect they have seen. Some offered references, some of those that offered were criticized because of their forthcoming nature. As it turns out it appears the poster had an account here for years, just never posted. In this instance it's obvious that the poster has more than a passing interest... he refers to himself as a "Prestidigitator". It convinced me. The specifics really aren't the point since I actually believe that even if the poster only discovered the mere existence of mentalism yesterday, the reference in this case should still be provided. The request itself was simple, for a very simple effect, even simpler than the variant where the spectator can place their card first. It's just the sort of effect that would be perfect for a beginner to learn and allow them to concentrate on presentation rather than complex methodology. All initial interest in our art has the potential to be 'passing' or 'whimsical', but if someone takes the time to search out a forum, register and request references (that he'll later have to purchase) I really don't see the problem. Helping such beginners should be seen a service to the art. Each one, teach one. |
bear trees Loyal user uk 263 Posts |
It was harder back in the day I had 2 catalogues supreme and repro and no internet a long slow learning process.
I surprised they were so helpful I got burnt at the stake on my first post they must be mellowing with age bless them. Jason |
kriskraze Special user 620 Posts |
Everything was harder back in the day, but I don't really see the relevance of that.
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jasons_mind Loyal user 258 Posts |
Just because that person may or may not learn how that one effect is accomplished does not mean that he will become a mentalist.
The term mentalist is being misused today, even professionally. I see magicians using the term mentalist if they present a mental magic effect. I'm not talking down to anyone, but it's just not the same. So, short story - knowledge does not make you anything. Experience is all. Jason. |
kriskraze Special user 620 Posts |
I see your point. For the purposes of this thread, let's assume that 'mentalist' is being used in a broad manner and encompasses all walks.
Are you agreeing with me? I agree that learning the secret doesn't mean he will become a mentalist. But it's also guaranteed that he won't become a mentalist (or mental magician) if he learns no secrets. |
IAIN Eternal Order england 18807 Posts |
He wasn't asking for the secret for free - he wasn't asking for a pm on how it was done or where he could download it...
he asked who he thought were the right people...he could of rang up a magic shop or emailed an online retailer too...he just chose here...i don't see the problem in his question at all... normally, the advice given to people who ask for effects is check corinda and annemann - however, in this case it's only kind of in annemann if memory serves..may well be wrong.. anyway - he got his answer... as for how difficult should it be to become a mentalist? well, its as hard as you make it on yourself...anyone with the internet and a little bit of common sense can find a shop, and spend some money... that doesn't make you a mentalist though - I don't quite know what does in fact, its going to be different for each person to a certain extent - as long as there is respect for it, and proper time practicing the skills you need...then maybe that's it...
I've asked to be banned
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jasons_mind Loyal user 258 Posts |
Kris,
I agree with the good willed nature of your first post. I have to admit, I skimmed it for the gist my first read through and I missed the whole point. So again, I agree and find the whole situation an interesting paradox. That situation is the "distribution" of our secrets (e.g., methods, presentations, and other how-to's), especially since the advent of the internet. I heard a layman say once, and since, many times "A magician never gives away his secrets, he only sells them!" How hypocritical of us right? It is hypocritical of us. Something I've kept in mind since I started performing is that the lay audience is always right. I don't care how illogical or distorted their thinking is towards whatever assumption they are making - they are always right. Why? Because they are the very reason we perform and without them there is no magic. So, back to the original post. I feel it's perfectly fine to help beginners. Often times if resources are requested, I will almost always mention a book, a classic that will test their possible whim into magic. This is my way of limiting the "free ride" that some might be seeking. The Royal Road, 13 steps, PME, and others are essential reads in our art; however, they are not the most interesting texts to study. So, it will definitely test the possible passer-by. Secondly, if this interest is more than passing, then I've done the requester a huge favor by recommending a necessary read instead of the latest fad on the market. Jason. |
R Gould Regular user 193 Posts |
Information is more freely available today than ever before.
And yet, attention spans are shorter than ever and you are competing with so many other diversions and forms of entertainment when you perform mentalism for someone. So, on balance, I don't think it's much easier to get started than it was before. |
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