The Magician
The Magician - As represented by the mysterious Raven
If you picked the lock or crafted the potion to enter the cabin, congratulations—you are what’s known as the Magician. Represented by the mysterious Raven, Magicians are powerful individuals driven by a thirst for knowledge. Their vision is vast, capable of seeing the bigger picture and shaping the world. But be mindful—your ambition must not alienate others or yourself. Turn inward and ask: Are your methods undermining your values?
Think of the great Magicians in literature and media. At their most developed, they become wise mentors and guides for those willing to listen. But in their adolescence, they often focus too much on external validation, leading to failure. This outward focus can breed insecurity, making you fearful of what others think—paralyzing you from achieving your full potential. Do not fear your weaknesses; embrace them, learn from them. Remember what Mariana learns about balance. Your drive to achieve and improve is powerful, but don’t sacrifice present contentment for the mere promise of future happiness.
The modern world increasingly favors the Magician. Knowledge, ingenuity, and cunning are now among the greatest assets. The Magician has the potential to accomplish extraordinary things.
Few archetypes are as versatile, but the path to knowledge and power is perilous. Think of how you chose this path—using tools from the clock to pick the lock. Your ingenuity was rewarded this time, but unchecked ambition can lead to isolation. Do not sacrifice relationships in your pursuit of knowledge and mastery.
Balance is crucial for all archetypes, but none more so than the Magician. Think of Mr. Steel, who reveled in solitude at the cost of his friendships. Or Luke Skywalker, who, after a great failure, severed himself from his power and abandoned those who needed him. The Magician’s mind can be a sanctuary—but for the unbalanced, it becomes a prison.
A balanced Magician looks different depending on their values and motivations. But when isolation becomes too consuming, seek external perspectives. Recall how you became the Magician—picking the lock with pieces of someone else’s work. Your curiosity and innovation define you, but your eagerness may come at the expense of others. Engaging with others will not only refine your ideas but also prevent you from becoming trapped in your own mind, blind to how your actions affect the world around you.
REMEMBER—The great Magicians of the world have been gurus, astronauts, explorers, and inventors. It is the Magician who ushers in new eras, driving progress and innovation. But Magicians have also fueled inequality and used power for selfish ends. Many are tricksters—not always villains, but disruptors who challenge the status quo. Trickster energy, when wielded with integrity, can undermine great evil. Stay true to your values, and you will go far.
Other Notable Magicians in Fiction: Gandalf (The Lord of the Rings), Tony Stark (Marvel’s Iron Man), Donatello (Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles), Hermione Granger (Harry Potter), Nate (Ted Lasso), Loki (Marvel’s Thor).
To continue to the second part of the ritual . . .