The Secret

The heart, the essences of every "Trick" every "Effect". Bunk , a secret does not a Magician make. Why is it so important for some? The bottom line is shear curiosity, "So that's how its done"! The problem exists that many who join the Magic ranks only want to know the secret.
As a Magician, "knowing the secret is what makes your tricks tick, you make the craft tick! Most effects are not hard to figure out if you are initiated.
To my knowledge no Magic trick has ever been produced that uses Para-normal means to achieve its end. The point is, 'it's not the secret, stupid'! It is the performer.I saw a video clip of Magic Ian doing one of the most sold and exposed tricks made today, the Ball and Tube. He makes it look unbelievably Magical. Imagine!
If and only if you are truly interested in becoming a "Preformer" not just a 'doer of tricks', I highly suggest the Fitzkee trilogy, 'The Trick Brain', 'Showmanship for Magicians" and 'Magic by Misdirection' these can be found at www.angelfire.com/ musicals/fitzkee/TB.html The trilogy is free to read on that site or order if you wish. I warn you these are a long read and even more study. It will give you a strong fundimental foundation in the Art of Magic.
Human nature tells me that most will not take the time to read and or explore thi Goldmine of Knowledge. I can hear the whine now:"It't too long", "It's too OOOOLD".The real reason is they are to lazy! It doesn't matter what era Fitzkee performed in, the priciples presented are as valid today as they were then. These books will help you understand more secrets then you ever realized.
Background and understanding will give you the tools to use your ability mentally to move forward.
JM Newlon