Today, the illusionist is an old-fashioned figure. With his balloon sculptures, gaudy handkerchiefs and doves, his aesthetic evokes the pastimes of childhood and village feasts. David Metcalfe frankly commented:

When one thinks of stage magic, speculative metaphysics might not be the first thing that comes to mind. (1) 

Metcalfe wrote these words after his meeting with Max Maven, the contemporary magician who – more than anyone else – has elevated the secular magic to a form of modern art, highlighting deep philosophical and cultural implications. Maven is one of the most prolific theorists on the subject. In an article on the role of magic in the U.S. cultural context, the magician commented bitterly:

Three magicians showed up on Forbes magazine’s recent list of the highest paid American entertainers. However, when Newsweek shortly thereafter did a cover story on the one hundred most influential people in American culture there was no one even remotely resembling a conjurer on the list. Conclusion: They’ll pay us, but they won’t listen to us. (2) 

Are there the basis for acknowledging to magic a role in the contemporary cultural debate? I personally think so.

I have dedicated my latest book to this issue – a creative course for magicians through Benjamin’s reflections on modern art, Borges’ Harvard lessons, Eco’s witty columns and Duchamp’s provocations.

Despite the time spent on the stage for years, I have left it to improve the perception of magic in public opinion through writing, believing in the possibility of emancipating magic from mere entertainment to a “category of thought.” This recognition will be certainly due to more aware artists and more mature performances, but most of all – out of theaters – the act of writing will play a leading role.

What are the aspects of our society in which magic has something interesting to say? In the coming days I will propose some reflections in the margin of “La Repubblica delle Idee”, the event organized in Florence by the daily newspaper Repubblica on June 6 to 9, 2013 – whose slogan “Writing to restart” is particularly relevant.

Let’s meet in Florence – if you will be there – and on this blog.

Notes