The Role Of Fantasy In Magic
Magic is real. It is a potent force harnessed by our will power and imagination working together. However like the forces of nature to our ancestors thousands of years ago or like any half understood phenomenon, there are many ways in which people try to make sense of it and try to reconcile it with their culture.
This means that almost like a religion, magic is interpreted in manifold ways. It is like the stars in the sky, undeniably there, undeniably real, but viewed from almost infinite directions.
Thus the trappings of the practise of magic vary very widely between magicians. Some like to call on the elements or the spirits of the Earth, others like to invoke Ancestors or ancient Deities, some even include religious figures such as Jesus, whom they believe was one of the world’s greatest magicians!
Here at Pendragon’s School we like to keep things simple. We believe that the source of magic is not found in an elemental or a Deity or even a spirit. The source of infinite magical power is right here, right now, inside you.
This power can be called upon at will, whenever you like, without the need for any equipment or props whatsoever. Indeed, some of the most successful witches or wizards of all time have used the most unadorned of spells, relying on their internal vivid imagination rather than exterior objects.
However, the great thing about magic is that there is a style for everyone. Some people are understandably excited by the prospect of Athames, wands, cloaks, circle casting, and calling up elemental Deities. They enjoy the mysterious atmosphere that is created when their magical fantasies come to life.
Does this sound like you? If so, you will probably find that your spells will be more powerful when you indulge these fantasies a little, as it will enhance your imaginative powers, which are an essential part of magical work.
If not, don’t worry- there’s certainly not a law saying that all witches and wizards must wear cloaks and carry wands – and you will have an advantage in that you will be equipped to craft spells anywhere, at a moments notice, with nary a candle in sight!
To come back to our star analogy; how you view the stars in your heavens is completely up to you. It’s a very personal and subjective thing, and if you’re one of those witches or wizards that finds that a more elaborate ritualistic process improves your magical concentration and power- then go for it!
Just don’t get so excited polishing your fancy telescope that you forget about the stars…