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Simple Spelling by Eugene Burger

Created by: Eugene Burger

Simple Spelling is a classic self-working card trick that creates a powerful moment of magic through mathematical principles and presentation. In this close-up card routine, a spectator freely selects a card from a shuffled deck, returns it, and the deck is shuffled again. With no sleight of hand after the card is returned, the magician spells out the name of the chosen card (e.g., 'TWO OF HEARTS'), dealing one card from the deck for each letter. On the final letter, the dealt card is turned over to reveal it is exactly the spectator's selection. The effect appears completely fair and impossible, relying on clever construction rather than difficult moves. Buyers should know this trick is part of the World's Greatest Magic series and is attributed to Eugene Burger, emphasizing philosophical presentation over technical skill.

Key features

  • Self-working method requiring no sleight of hand after the card is returned

  • Uses mathematical principles for a clean and direct effect

  • Attributed to master magician Eugene Burger, focusing on presentation

  • Part of the World's Greatest Magic series on self-working card tricks

  • Ideal for close-up or parlour settings with lay audiences

  • Emphasizes audience management and framing the spelling as the magical moment

Pros

  • No difficult moves needed, making it accessible to beginners

  • Highly deceptive for spectators due to the apparent fairness

  • Strong magical moment when presented well

  • Relies on presentation rather than technical skill

  • Clean effect with a clear climax

Cons

  • Requires strong presentation skills to maximize impact

  • Limited to card names with specific letter counts (may need adaptation)

  • Not suitable for performers who prefer sleight-heavy routines

Effect

The trick is called Simple Spelling. A spectator chooses a card freely. The deck is shuffled. The magician then spells the name of the chosen card out loud, dealing one card from the deck for each letter. When the final letter is spelled, the card dealt at that moment is turned over. It is the spectator's selected card.

Full details

Simple Spelling is a self-working card trick. It is attributed to the magician Eugene Burger. The method uses a mathematical principle. No sleight of hand is needed after the spectator returns their card to the deck. The deck can be shuffled by the spectator, which adds to the effect's fairness. The trick is part of the World's Greatest Magic series on self-working card tricks.

Who should consider the trick

This trick is good for magicians of all skill levels. It is especially useful for beginners because it requires no advanced moves. Performers who focus on presentation and storytelling will find it valuable. It is also suitable for magicians who want a reliable, impromptu trick that uses a regular deck.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The trick is not difficult to perform. The method is self-working. The challenge is in the presentation, not the mechanics. A magician must manage the audience's attention and sell the magical moment of spelling. There are no difficult sleights to learn or practice.

What magicians say

The performance video from MurphysMagicSupplies shows the trick performed in the style of Eugene Burger. The summary notes that the routine "relies more on clever construction and audience management than on difficult moves." It highlights that the "lack of any visible sleights after the card is returned makes the effect particularly strong for lay audiences." The key advice is to frame the spelling procedure as the magical moment itself.

What people are saying about Simple Spelling

MurphysMagicSupplies says...

The trick is a clean and direct spelling routine where a spectator's freely chosen card is found through the simple act of spelling its name. [...] The lack of any visible sleights after the card is returned makes the effect particularly strong for lay audiences, as it removes any suspicion of digital dexterity.

Performance videos