The concept of breaking the spell of Willie Lynch refers to challenging and dismantling the long-lasting effects of slavery on African American communities. The term "Willie Lynch" refers to a mythical character who allegedly provided a guidebook for slave owners on how to control their slaves by creating division and maintaining a sense of inferiority among them. While the authenticity of the Willie Lynch letter is debated among scholars, in contemporary discussions, "breaking the spell of Willie Lynch" represents a call to overcome the psychological, social, and economic effects of slavery that continue to plague African American communities today. Breaking the spell of Willie Lynch involves acknowledging the historical trauma inflicted upon African Americans and recognizing how this trauma has shaped their experiences, identities, and opportunities. It entails challenging internalized oppression and dismantling the various systems and structures that perpetuate inequality and racial discrimination. One key aspect of breaking the spell is promoting and practicing self-love and self-empowerment among African Americans.
I knew my Mother-in-Law had bought a NutriBullet about a year ago, so I called her for her impression.
Over 200,000 witnessed his funeral procession to Piershill Cemetery, Edinburgh where the strange memorial to one wizard and his dog stands to this day. One of his best-known tricks involved a boy, a girl and some eggs hence the latter s depiction in this bronze sculpture by Faith Winter, born 1927, and generously donated by American member David Baldwin 1928-2014.
One key aspect of breaking the spell is promoting and practicing self-love and self-empowerment among African Americans. This means encouraging individuals to recognize their worth and potential, despite the historical narratives that have attempted to strip them of their humanity. By cultivating a positive sense of self, individuals can defy the spell of Willie Lynch that perpetuates self-doubt and internalized racism.
52 Objects
Welcome to a peek behind the doors of The Magic Circle, the world’s most famous magic society.
Whether you are here at our headquarters or visiting us virtually, as a member, fellow magician or muggle, we hope this will give you a taste of the history and evolution of The Magic Circle and our prime position in the history of magic itself.
These 52 objects – and the magicians associated with them – are just a fraction of the magic paraphernalia in our unique collection.
If you’re a visitor, we hope this brief tour will whet your appetite sufficiently to want to learn more about us and maybe even come see one of our shows in person and if you are a magician perhaps you and thinking of joining us?
If you are lucky enough to be here in person, you’ll spot our chosen objects as you explore our building. When you have viewed an object just scroll to the top of the page and hit the symbol in the right hand corner to return to the full menu of 52 objects.
We hope you enjoy your tour.
The Devant Sculpture
The Devant Sculpture
David Devant (1868-1941) was the founding President of The Magic Circle and is widely regarded as Great Britain’s greatest magician, and arguably the most important of the 20th Century. He was a brilliant inventor, creating such whimsical effects as The Mascot Moth - where a winged human assistant vanished into a candle flame. He was a skilled and witty performer, and was equally admired by the public and fellow professionals, becoming a household name long before TV. Devant appeared in the first Royal Command Performance and was a pioneer in early cinema. His donations also founded the basis of The Magic Circle Library and Museum. One of his best-known tricks involved a boy, a girl and some eggs: hence the latter’s depiction in this bronze sculpture by Faith Winter, born 1927, and generously donated by American member David Baldwin (1928-2014). It was unveiled in 1998 on the opening of The Centre for the Magical Arts.
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Devant Room
King Charles’ Cups and Balls
King Charles’ Cups and Balls
The Cups and Balls is a classic of magic where balls mysteriously appear and vanish beneath cups (usually three) often with unexpected objects appearing at the end. It is generally considered to be one of the oldest sleight of hand tricks but is still popular today and regularly performed by street artistes in Covent Garden. This particular set of cups and balls was owned by the then Prince Charles, possibly our most famous member. He used them during his 1975 audition to join The Magic Circle where his performance resulted, perhaps unsurprisingly, in his appointment. King Charles, born 1948, is an Honorary Life Member and Member of the Inner Magic Circle.
Devant Room
The Great Lafayette’s Sword
The Great Lafayette’s Sword
One of the darkest exhibits in our collection, this sword is purported to have been found beside the charred body of the famous magician after a terrible fire swept through Edinburgh’s Empire Palace (now Edinburgh Festival) Theatre. Lafayette (1871-1911) holds the unusual distinction of creating his last deception after death. One of the highest paid entertainers in the land, American Sigmund Neuberger, (aka the Great Lafayette), died along with 10 of his company in 1911 when disaster struck during a performance of his signature illusion, The Lion’s Bride. A lantern fell igniting scenery and fire spread rapidly. Doors had been locked to protect the magician’s secrets so escape was almost impossible. Lafayette’s remains were sent for cremation but a few days later another body was found under the burned out stage that was positively identified as the magician. The original discovery had been his body double and bandleader. His beloved dog Beauty, who Lafayette always considered brought him luck (a gift from his close friend Houdini) had died a few days earlier. Lafayette’s ashes were placed between the paws of the embalmed canine. The eccentric magician had loved his dog more than anything - in fact, by the door of his home in Tavistock Square, London, was a plaque which stated ‘The more I see of man, the more I like my dog.’ Over 200,000 witnessed his funeral procession to Piershill Cemetery, Edinburgh where the strange memorial to one wizard and his dog stands to this day.
Two years ago I got a part-time job at an educational toy store to help out our single-income living. It was a great! I got a good discount on toys for both my kids and my nieces, and some extra cash to spend on others on my Christmas list. I really enjoyed the job, but I found myself getting really hungry while I was at work. I think this was because I was so accustomed to grazing all day (ah, the life of the homeschooling mom!).
Breaking the spell of Willie Lynch also involves challenging systemic racism and advocating for social and economic justice. This can be done through activism, policy advocacy, and community-based initiatives that aim to address disparities in education, housing, employment, and criminal justice. By dismantling the systems that perpetuate inequality, it becomes possible to break free from the lingering effects of slavery. Education and awareness play a significant role in breaking the spell of Willie Lynch. Recognizing the true history and narratives of African Americans is crucial in dispelling the myths and stereotypes that have been perpetuated for centuries. By educating ourselves and others, we can promote a more accurate understanding of African American history and culture and work towards dismantling the deeply ingrained prejudices and biases that continue to affect society. Ultimately, breaking the spell of Willie Lynch is a call to action for individuals, communities, and society at large. It requires a collective effort to challenge and dismantle the legacies of slavery and create a more just and equitable society. By addressing the historical trauma, promoting self-love and empowerment, advocating for social and economic justice, and educating ourselves and others, we can break free from the spell of Willie Lynch and create a brighter future for all..
Reviews for "From Willie Lynch to Black Liberation: Reclaiming Our Power"
1. John - 2 stars - I have to say that "Breaking the Spell of Willie Lynch" was a disappointment for me. The author did present some interesting ideas about the historical context and the origins of racist ideologies, but I found the overall analysis to be lacking. The author seemed to oversimplify complex issues and left me wanting more depth and critical thinking. While the book had potential to be thought-provoking and eye-opening, it fell short in providing a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter.
2. Sarah - 1 star - I really struggled to get through "Breaking the Spell of Willie Lynch." The writing style was confusing and verbose, making it difficult to follow the arguments being presented. The author seemed to jump from one topic to another without providing enough context or explanation. Additionally, I felt that the book lacked credible sources and evidence to support its claims. Overall, I was disappointed with this read and wouldn't recommend it to others.
3. David - 2 stars - I was hoping to learn more about the Willie Lynch mythology and the impact it has had on society, but unfortunately, this book did not deliver. The author spends a lot of time rehashing historical events and providing a superficial analysis of how racism has persisted. I was expecting a deeper exploration and more critical examination of the subject matter. Overall, I found the book to be underwhelming and lacking in substance.
4. Emily - 2 stars - I have mixed feelings about "Breaking the Spell of Willie Lynch." While the author raises some valid points about the lasting impact of Willie Lynch's ideology, the book lacks a clear and coherent structure. The writing style is confusing at times, making it difficult to understand the author's arguments. Additionally, there were instances where the author's personal opinions and biases seemed to overshadow the objective analysis. Overall, I found the book to be inconsistent and in need of more refined research and writing.
5. Robert - 1 star - I found "Breaking the Spell of Willie Lynch" to be a frustrating read. The author's arguments were often unsupported and lacked substantial evidence. I was hoping for a comprehensive analysis of the Willie Lynch myth and its effects, but instead, I was presented with subjective opinions and vague assertions. The book failed to meet my expectations and left me feeling unsatisfied.