avatarZachary Seda

Summary

A magician's desire for real magic leads to unintended and dangerous consequences, compelling him to perform dark acts against his will.

Abstract

The narrative "Magic, A Reality" is a flash fiction piece that delves into the psyche of a magician who longs for the fantastical elements of his craft to be genuine. Initially content with entertaining audiences through illusions and sleight-of-hand, his perspective shifts when his tricks begin to manifest real, uncontrollable magical effects, causing harm to spectators. The magician's attempt to halt his performances is thwarted by a mysterious man with hypnotic influence, forcing him to continue and even recruit others into this perilous form of magic. The story concludes with an invitation for readers to explore more of the author's work and engage with them on social media.

Opinions

  • The author conveys a sense of irony in the magician's predicament, as his wish for true magic results in a loss of control and dire consequences.
  • There is an underlying theme of the corrupting influence of power, as the magician's newfound abilities lead to a moral dilemma and coercion by the mysterious man.
  • The story suggests a critique of the entertainment industry's demand for more sensational and potentially dangerous acts to captivate audiences.
  • It reflects on the idea that the reality of magic, if it were to exist, might not align with the whimsical and harmless image portrayed in performances.
  • The narrative implies that the pursuit of authenticity in one's passion can lead to unforeseen and possibly dark transformations.
  • The magician's transformation from an entertainer to a reluctant participant in a sinister spectacle highlights the potential dangers of unchecked desires and ambitions.

Magic, A Reality

A Flash Fiction

Photo by Javardh on Unsplash

Making people laugh, it’s the reason I did it. Giving people amusement for a few hours a week. I idolized magic, secretly wished it were true. But it was fake. Awe the crowd with tricks easily explainable. A sleight-of-hand anyone can master.

Cursing the imitative world I lived in, I didn’t realize it would bring unexpected consequences. The same tricks no longer worked as intended. Sleight-of-hand no longer needed. And the more venturous tricks…

Harming people was never part of the act. They weren’t supposed to bleed.

I wanted to stop; I tried to stop. Any effort was in vain because of him. The man who sat in the front row. His soulless eyes willing me on. I obeyed him, as anyone would. No one refused him.

I got the magic I desired, but at a price. Now I was the recruiter.

Thanks for reading! If you enjoyed this short story, consider checking out some of my other work. Also, feel free to connect with me on Twitter! I enjoy engaging with other writers.

Fiction
Flash Fiction
Magic
Horror
Demons
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