Says you to a stranger:
Would you like to go see a movie?
Would you like to see a play?
Would you like to watch me paint a picture?
Would you like to see a magic trick?
*
however, using magic while you are talking with someone might get you a different response.


*
magic tricks don't need to look like you're showing off.

When I do carry a few effects in my pocket or in a small carry case, I first size up the situation before I attempt to perform a magic trick or two for someone.

If I do not feel comfortable or do not get the correct vibes so to speak, I just do not bother.

Of course, on the occasions I do not take any tricks along with me, someone always asks me to do a trick. So...I have a few I can usually do with things within my reach. Household items so to speak.

I always say that I am willing to perform some magic for anyone willing to watch and mean that literally!

I think it depends on how you define what magic is...

The good part is you asked. The line about caring how much you know applies here.

How many times did Malini let a block of ice melt in his pocket because the time wasn't right? This is the art of the lie. At it's worst it defrauds. At it's best, it creates wonder. It is our job and goal to know the difference and bring that to life.

To ask if magic is a lie is to miss the point of performance art. Willie Loman dosen't really die in the play. Is it a lie every night?

If you're working doing strolling magic: Real question- Can tough audiences be won over by seeing how well you treat other audiences? What would happen if you agreed and then asked if they'd like to watch you lie to the folks at the next table?

If this is social rather than professional then they've told you about a boundary in their life.

He doesn't really exist, either, while we're at it.

Another LIE! Good point.

When you ask someone if they want to see a magic trick, and they respond, Yes, then you have permission to ethically deceive them. They understand that you are an actor playing the part of a wizard with supernatural powers. They want to be fooled.

I like this link from Penn and Teller
https://youtu.be/cTrcUp2-NjA

The book The Magic of Michael Ammar has a chapter on psychology in which he discusses lying. It might be worth looking at, they might have it at a local library.

Also a great book in general.

Magic is about temporarily melting the ego as per Buddhism, psychedelic trips, extreme suffering leading etc leading to "ego death" Paul Harris talks about this in the final interview in the True Astonishments 9 DVD set as well as the Art of Astonishment books. It is hard to explain since language is limitation and only a pointer. One might describe it as the natural state, presence, living in the now/moment, oneness with all life. This is why we and others love "magic" ie the lies/deceptions your spectator is complaining about... "It's all made up."-Paul Harris, True Astonishment final interview. There are many books on/videos on this. P.S Those mushroom wizards things on the Harris DVD's and other mushroom pics are most likely about psychedelic mushrooms which some might consider a "shortcut" to ego death without years of suffering or meditation. Harri's ego death story was of being stressed so badly while writing a script that at some point his mental anguish led to state of astonishment of the ultimate mystery of being. But again words fail...Peace

What is wrong with lying? What do you mean "just a lie?" Lies can mean life or death.