pages: latestmagicbeing00hoff.pdf, 211
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latestmagicbeing00hoff.pdf | 211 | CONCERNING PATTER 195 away from the true explanation of the marvel, and to suggest, in a more or less plausible way, some other, remote from the real one. The suggested explanation may be either pseudo- scientific, where possible based on some generally accepted truth (and it is surprising what a long way even a few grains of truth go in such cases) ; or it may be downright "spoof," delivered however with due appearance of seriousness. The explana- tions will naturally fall a good deal short of the George Washington standard of truthfulness, but the most tender conscience need not in such a case have any scruples on the score of veracity. No sane person expects truth in a fairy tale, and a magical entertainment, from beginning to end, is but a fairy tale in action. To put the matter in an epigrammatic nutshell: Truth is "a gem of purest ray serene," A virtue always to be cultivated, But such depends,-you'll gather what I mean, On how you happen to be situated. At home, abroad, wherever I may be, I tell the honest truth, and shame the d- . But when you ask to be deceived. Good gracious! You can't expect me then to be veracious. In that case only do I make exception, And most deceive when vowing "no deception." This function of patter, the leading away the minds of the audience from the true explanation of the puzzle offered them, may be materially assisted |