Why Magic Is Actually Awesome (No Matter What Everyone Says)

We asked our members to defend magic, after our critic's withering review of Now You See Me 2

Magic is a word that’s thrown around a lot these days. "It must be magic!" often meets – and explains – things as diverse as card tricks and three-point shots in basketball.

Everyone who has witnessed 'magic' of any kind is forced to draw their own conclusion and explanation from what they have just seen.

Whether it's that incredible street performer - or even your older brother trying new tricks in the lounge room - magic is the universal term for ‘amazing’ wherever you go.

I remember my first time watching a magician on TV and seeing him pull a rabbit out of a hat. While this may seem like an old trick, I can still remember thinking to myself, aged nine, "how on Earth did he do that?"

Ever since that day, I have been obsessed with the idea and concept of magic. I've followed its trends and even learned some new tricks along the way.

I am proud to say my childhood was spent creating illusions and tricks to put a smile on people’s faces, rather than spent on the Xbox.

Magic inspires creativity and imagination. It is a natural icebreaker. It aids in your fluency interacting with others and it is definitely a productive way to get a shy person out of their shell.

If you get the chance, I highly recommend you learn a magic trick or two. Magic isn't just awesome for its viewers but also for the performers who get great satisfaction out of entertaining for the masses.

If it were not for magic I would not have the confidence to speak and perform in front of large crowds.

These skills don't just apply to performing but also in real word scenarios. Magic has helped me become the confident adolescent I am today, and I hope it can do the same for you.

Congratulations to Jake for winning this writing challenge, answering: Why Magic Is Actually Awesome. Jake wins a $50 Westfield gift card for his submission. For your chance to win, check out our latest writing challenges in our Comps section. Also, be sure to follow this guide on how to win the writing challenge!

Photo: Summit Entertainment.