Ain’t Misbehavin’

A revised excerpt from a Jeffrey Kipnis article “Ain’t Misbehavin’”

Son: Father, what is the difference between a magician and a scientist? It seems that they are the same; after all, both must know arcane ways to produce and reproduce various effects.

Father: Very wise, Son, but the difference is important, and rests in the relation to their respective audiences. The scientist always shows his wires and his audience loves to see them, while the magician never shows his wires and his audience loves to believe they are not there.

Son: Who are your favorite scientists, Father?

Father: Electricians, I suppose. I particularly enjoy their light bulbs. Plumbers are good, too.

Son: And your favorite magicians?

Father: Architects. Except when I am very hungry, that is, then chefs.

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