|
|
Alexander Regular user UK 124 Posts |
I’ve been "in" to Mentalism for a while now, and it is only recently that I have been developing my own.... mind-set and approch to it. Thus, I do not have the experience and years behind me to have any real grounding to what I am about to say.
So take it for what it is, an opinion. Now, with the disclaimer out of the way, maybe you would be so kind as to let me come straght out with it.... I am of the oppinion that most of the books (about mentalism) advised to be studied by the "beginner" are a little old and don't cover the principles (of mentalism) well enough. Allow me to expand a little on that radical idea. On this bored we see many a "new-be" ask "Which book is the best for a beginner?", "13 Steps to Mentalism" we all cry. "It will give you a good understanding of Mentalism" , some one will say, soon to be followed by, "Most of the effects are out of date, but you will soon see the light, and adapt them to your style", or words to similar effect. I agree with all of the above. True, without "13 Steps to Mentalism" it would be nearly imposable to have any good understanding of the principles of Mentalsim. And I would not hesitate to recommend this book to any one interested in Mentalism. But it is the books advice to the question, "I’ve read and re-read my 13 Steps to Mentalism, now what?” that I have a problem with. Surely the books that follow Corinda's should be the ones that follow on from it. What I mean by this is, "13 Steps to Mentalism" is split up in to 13 "steps" (chapters) about Mentalism, crazy isn't it. These 13 steps cover some fundamental principles in Mentalism (e.g. sw**i, bi****s, etc.), as well as giving some effects that use the principle being discussed. So, surely books that are written about other principles in mentalism, that are not and/or vaguely covered in "13 Steps to Mentalism" (e.g. PW, PSW, equivoque, etc.) should follow. Rather than, old books which may or may not be practical and/or have effects which may or may not be "out of date". And ones that only confuse the poor reader about what approach to take, a what is and what is not entertaining to 'todays people'. Of course, if at some point the student of mentalism wishes to purchase a book of effects or an effect, then so be it, they are easy to find. And more often than not, written in such away as to be adapted by the creative performer. But with the books, and there for the knowledge of the principles behind Mentalism effects he/she can create his/her own miracles that will complement and tie in with his own persona and vision. This, my mental friends, is my opinion. And I would like to know your opinion on mine. Thoughts, comments, ideas. All are welcome, even if it is to inform me I am wrong. Awaiting your replies, hoping I’m not eaten alive, Alex.
The Man Who Knows (how to make a good cup of Tea)
Mentalism - Philosophy. the doctrine that mind is the fundamental reality and that objects of knowledge exist only as aspects of the subject's consciounes. |
Sariel Loyal user 258 Posts |
Alexander, like you, I once had your opinion (just a few months ago).
When I got into mentalism the first book I bought was Corinda, and I admit that I was very disappointed! I start reading and it took me a while before I get one working effect that I liked (I didn't have a swami at the time). But I tried to follow the advices of the more experienced mentalists here at the Café that always recommend these older books. After re-reading I decided that this "kind of mentalism" wasn't exactly my type ( ) ..carrying my pockets full of props, indexes, etc wasn't really for me; so I started buying more books of other authors: Banachek, Kenton Knepper, Bob Cassidy, etc. I spent a lot of money on this! I knew a lot of the "secrets", but how about use them well? nope...I missed the very basic foundations of the art and the very basic of mentalism: ADJUSTING THE EFFECTS TO YOUR OWN STYLE! That is all Corinda is about...this is the point of all these old books, adjusting the "old and outdated" effects to your own method and patter. Think about it this way: you read an effect on Corinda, and you really like it...but when you read the method it requires a card index, or a billet pencil, or something that you don't have and don't intend to buy; but you really really liked that effect; what can you do to replace the billet pencil? a force? How can I force this object to the spectator? etc...see what I mean? If you can't do it with Corinda, you won't do it with Banachek, Ted Lesley, ... Of course Corinda don't cover ALL the principles of mentalism...it's obvious; but it do covers the basics that you need to start developing your own stuff. You have lot's of ideas to play with it in that book. And believe me...if you really studied the "old stuff" you'll see all the new releases in a new light. Check out in this thread, a reply by Banachek: http://www.themagiccafe.com/forums/viewt......5&11 Of course...this is my opinion, maybe it's not even the correct one, and most likely there's someone who can explain it a lot better than me |
g0thike Special user 722 Posts |
<<<most likely there's someone who can explain it a lot better than me>>>
KEEP IT REAL DOG It is true that a lot of mentalism effects are based on old principles. Just like many illusions are based on old principles, black art, deceptive bases, and mirrors. 13 Steps is full of ideas and principles that will help any person new to mentalism get a better understanding on the fundamentals. I like to compare the text to running, you must be able to stand and walk before you run. The older texts are excellent references and/or resources. But just do what I do, read the effect and memorize and practice the method and modify the presentation and use your own patter. Using the term “Keep It Real Dog” might also help. G0THIKE |
restlessplots Regular user 124 Posts |
A few nights ago, I was honored to meet the Old Man, as Sir T refers to him. A man so old he more than likely owes Jesus a few coins of the realm, at any rate, this old man is an unknown, to the magic/mentalism world, but has a rather vast working knowledge of mentalism (and a bookshelf to kill for).
We were talking about mentalism as it is, was and where it is going (another topic all together, I assure you). As a rather new mentalist, I like many ran out and bought the 13 steps, and started my journey like sooooooooo many others before me (Bob in his 39 steps to mentalism, will disagree with this, but I think everyone should read it) During the course of the evening, I was seeking advice on how to become better, which books and effects should I read and do, the standard stuff we all ask. I was rather shocked when he told me, to put the 13 steps away and take an acting class! I politely informed him, I did not want to be an actor, for which his response was, "Then you are not a mentalist! Anyone can learn the effects, the secrets and many do, but very few truly excel and do them extremely well! Far to many Mentalist today, want to be a Mentalist over night. It takes practice, experience and acting ability. One of the best ways to become good at the art is to take some acting classes, polish yourself, so what you do, will be polished and not just the prop!" As for props, read what Corinda says in step six, "..."People often say, to me, "what is the best mental effect?" and when they ask, I always reply the same--"to me, I have met nothing yet which will replace my esteem fort the CT." Fro a good many years this one trick with a billet has stood me in good stead. I've used it everywhere under almost every possible condition and never once has it failed to do me more good than any other three tricks I know. IF YOU WANT TO GET ONETHING OUT OF THIS BOOK--AND CAN'T BE BOTHERED TO READ A LOT--DON'T WASTE ANYMORE TIME BECAUSE YOU WILL FIND NOTHING BETTER THAN THE C.T. THAT'S WORTH THE PRICE OF THE FULL 13 STEPS." (Caps mine, not the book) The Old Man then proceeded to show me billet moves and switches, I could never be begin to explain! "There is gold in those old text, if one takes the time and spends the energy, to learn them and not just the secrets. Poor handling, bad acting and expansive props, seem to be the order of the day," so say the Old Man. "Don't tell me they are outdated when just about every new effect on the market, has it very foundation in those old texts! Stop spending your money of effects and learn to act and think and apply those so called OLD principals to make better effects that suit you and your needs!" I guess you see the way, my night went! Me--I have put the 13 steps away (well sort of, I am only working on step six right now) and Have enrolled in an acting class, what can it hurt! Rest |
Alexander Regular user UK 124 Posts |
HitmanPT and g0thike -
You may have misinterpreted my meaning, or I didn't spell it out well enough. I have nothing wrong with 13 steps, its a fantastic book and full of adaptable effects. What I meant was the other "old" books. Ones that don't teach principles clearly, just have a few intertwined between the effects. But there have been many books that do teach some more "steps". These I feel should be studied, they often give effects as examples, which is what 13 steps does. restlessplots - I would have to agree with the "Old Man", acting should be encouraged, even forced for upcoming mentalists. Maybe this should be another 'principle' added to the list, the first one. If any one has any questions please feel free to ask, Alex
The Man Who Knows (how to make a good cup of Tea)
Mentalism - Philosophy. the doctrine that mind is the fundamental reality and that objects of knowledge exist only as aspects of the subject's consciounes. |
Thoughtreader Inner circle Calgary, Alberta, Canada 1565 Posts |
13 Steps teaches you the HOW, Bob Cassidy's "Principia Mentalia" series and "The Art of Mentalism 1" and "The art of mentalism 2" teaches you the WHY. That's my recommendation.
PSIncerely Yours, Paul Alberstat |
Alexander Regular user UK 124 Posts |
That's a good recommendation Paul.
The Man Who Knows (how to make a good cup of Tea)
Mentalism - Philosophy. the doctrine that mind is the fundamental reality and that objects of knowledge exist only as aspects of the subject's consciounes. |
The Magic Cafe Forum Index » » Penny for your thoughts » » Mentalism, The study of (0 Likes) |
[ Top of Page ] |
All content & postings Copyright © 2001-2024 Steve Brooks. All Rights Reserved. This page was created in 0.04 seconds requiring 5 database queries. |
The views and comments expressed on The Magic Café are not necessarily those of The Magic Café, Steve Brooks, or Steve Brooks Magic. > Privacy Statement < |