Leading With Enchantment
Many years ago I heard a teacher describe what they did as “magic.” You’ve probably heard “magic” used that way in other contexts. But I do not like the use of the word “magic” that way. I don’t even like it when people say, “Byron, work your magic with this.” Why? Let’s start by looking at the word “magic.” It means to manipulate or create the illusion of change. You can read more here. I don’t know about you, but I do not want to manipulate or create illusions in the work I do. Particularly in the education of our young people. A few weeks ago at the Marion E. Wade Center I had the opportunity to discuss this topic with, Kimberly Sasser, Ph.D. She looks at this from the perspective of there being a distinction of “enchantment” versus “magic.”
The context Dr. Sasser was discussing this distinction between “enchantment” and “magic” was that of us having an audience – either written or as a speaker/performer. The distinction between the two is “enchantment” is working with an audience and “magic” is working on an audience reflects different ways in engaging or influencing them.
When we say that enchantment works with an audience, it suggests a mutual, participatory relationship. Enchantment involves captivating the audience’s imagination, emotions, and sense of wonder through storytelling, genuine charisma, or shared experiences. It’s a collaborative process where the audience is engaged, inspired, and almost co-creates the content through their openness and connection.
On the other hand, magic works on an audience implies a more one-sided influence or impact. Magic, in this context, refers to illusions or feats that are performed upon the audience—captivating their senses, surprising them, or creating a sense of mystery. It’s about the performer influencing the audience’s perceptions directly, often leaving them in awe or wonder, but with a slightly more detached or observational dynamic.
Here’s my summary of all these thoughts:
- Enchantment is a reciprocal, engaging process—you work with the audience to create a shared experience.
- Magic is a performative act upon the audience—eliciting amazement through skillful illusions or feats.
We need to be shooting for enchantment, not doing a magic act.
Byron's Babbles 
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