I stumbled across this quote from artist James Whistler and was struck by how well I thought it described the goal of the preparation process for the magician. What do you think? "Industry in art is a necessity - not a virtue - and any evidence of the same, in the production, is a blemish, not a quality; a proof, not of achievement, but of absolutely insufficient work, for work alone will efface the footsteps of work."

It definitely seems to fit the magician's goal in that respect. Magic should seem effortless and refined, even if one's performance is solely magic gone wrong (e.g. The Great Ballantine). But I suppose the lack of industry in performance plays a part in creating a graceful appearance.

Anything can apply to magic. If it inspires you it can inspire your magic.