| Re: Janny Wurts and systems of magic
My favorite magic system uses the arcania of physics and chemistry to allow lighting a dark room with the wave of a hand and enabling the average (non initiate) person to fly at high speeds over long distances (along with many other feats).
Many of the literary systems seem to rely on the power of the mind to influence (distort) physical laws, deals with demons, possession of an object of power or knowledge of a true name to give one power over that thing.
I did like Token's use of the Shamanistic death and rebirth (Gandalf) as a means to enhance/gain magical power (based on real world Shamanism).
Tom Deitz has also used historic belief systems as a basis for some of his books (regarding second sight, the Sidhe and Native American mythology, witchcraft and wizardry).
Andre Norton seems to be well thought of by some Wicans for her references to magic (Witchworld series of books).
Zelazny has actually been referenced in fringe literature about magic visualization (The Changeling/Madwand).
Enjoy! |