The theme of magic always intrigues and fascinates millions of readers, and a circus is probably the first place that comes to mind when a person thinks about magic. Swan (2016) states, there is something in the circus’s nature that “invites fabulist and surreal vision” (p. 311). In her novel The Night Circus, Erin Morgenstern proves how the mystery and reality co-exist, delighting spectators and motivating magicians. Magic may be created in many ways, and the novel shows how to combine successfully such elements as images, time, and colors.
The strongest aspect of the novel is to reveal the truth about magic creation. Morgenstern is correct, saying “people see what they wish to see. And in most cases, what they are told that they see” (2011, p. 33). Instead of trying to understand what happens, spectators admire the events on the stage, and magicians perform their tasks. The main rule of magic is to keep secrets that possess power. There is no need to write them down or share not to diminish the level of power (Morgenstern, 2011). However, to make sure magic continues existing is to choose followers and exchange experiences.
The Night Circus is rooted in a rivalry of two magicians, Hector Bowen (Prospero the Enchanter) and Alexander (A.H.) These men cannot stop their competition and use Celia and Marco to share their knowledge. The same way Rowling’s Harry, Hermione, and Ron or Okorafor’s Sunny, Chichi, and Orlu develop their skills, Celia and Marco teach from their parents but never neglect their interests and attitudes. The images of magicians vary, introducing frank Tsukiko, isolated A. H., and patient Prospero.
To strengthen an understanding of magic in the novel, Morgenstern is determined with such concepts as time and colors. A circus is a place where time is flexible and hard to reach, maintaining the show, as well as challenges. Time is unpredictable, as well as magic, and ordinary people or even magicians can do nothing to manage it. Colors also play a crucial role because their choice helps the author delineate the place from reality. The black-and-white tone defines the circus, while red, gold, and grey colors dilute the setting, reminding the reader about not belonging to the magic environment. Reading The Night Circus is a great opportunity to recognize the worth of such details as images or colors and improve reality by removing unnecessary things.
References
Morgenstern, E. (2011). The night circus. Doubleday.
Swan, G. (2016). A world of differences.Sewanee Review, 124(2), 306-313. Web.