Thanks to Nielsen Magic for permission to use the above image.
One idea that is common among the average person when witnessing a conjuror perform is they believe that "the hand is quicker than the eye." Nothing could be further from the truth. There is no way that any conjuror can move their hand faster than the eye can see. It just cannot be done. However, this is a belief that many hold to be true, attributing - if you think about it - a superhuman trait or ability to a mere mortal. As a conjuror, though, we tend not to tell the public the truth about this. After all, conjurors are deceivers - honest deceivers, that is. However, if a conjuror were to be specifically asked as to whether their hand moves quicker than the eye can see, it would not be becoming of the performer to lie and say, "Yes!" Then, and only then, should the conjuror set the record straight and explain the impossibility of any human having the ability to move their hand at light speed. Rather, subtlety, misdirection, gimmicks and/or sleight of hand are the true mechanisms involved in the succesful performance of any illusion.
A great example of all these elements working together to create the illusion that the hand is quicker than the eye is best illustrated with a performance by Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania magician, Paul Gertner. One of the oldest pieces of magic is the classic known as "The Cups and Balls." Paul, who is an incredibly talented close-up magician, brings his own unique and highly effective twist to this classic. Although Paul's hands are not quicker than the eye can see, I'm confident you'll still be amazed and puzzled despite that fact. This is good! Enjoy!
