An illusion is an effect - something which appears to be one thing, while in fact being something else. A magician, or illusionist, creates illusions using various methods of deception and distraction. He makes use of the fact that the way something is observed can make it appear something it is not. When seen from another angle, you see how the trick is done, and you say "that was just an illusion - it wasn't what I thought it was".

Some illusions can seem very real, especially if there are many people who believe them to be so. This creates cultural myths that can be very powerful, and difficult to see beyond.

We are all illusionists, and sometimes part of this process is to forget how our tricks are done. Then we remember them and applaud ourselves.

Some people enjoy the illusion, and do not want to see or remember how it is being done. They believe this would spoil the enjoyment for them.

Other people begin to ask questions. They want to know how it is done, but at the same time they still don't want to lose the enjoyment. So they are somewhat conflicted. Their mind is open to a degree, but at the same time they will deny what you're telling them, and refuse to look at what you're showing them.

Still other people are ready to see through the illusion. They are done with the drama, not because it wasn't enjoyable, but because they simply are ready to move on. These people are future magicians. Their new fun is to create even greater illusions.