The song "Good Magicians" by Sidney Gish explores themes of admiration, curiosity, and self-doubt. The lyrics depict the narrator being captivated by someone who seems to possess a secret or a skill that they want to understand. The opening lines suggest the narrator observing this person with great interest, paying close attention to the screens or platforms they are on. The narrator wants to know the secret behind their abilities, which they believe could be connected to the person's educational background ("manipulation/Of a master degree"). As the song progresses, the narrator acknowledges their own limitations compared to this individual. They mention studying good magicians and trying to entertain a deeper understanding of the person's skills. However, the narrator considers themselves an "absolute basket case" and feels inadequate in their attempts to learn the same tricks. The lyrics emphasize the contrast between the narrator's struggles and the mastery of the person they admire. The imagery of the Trix cereal's mascot suffocated in a hat and a failed box routine illustrates the narrator's fear of failing and potentially causing harm in their attempts to replicate the tricks. Despite their self-doubt, the narrator continues to study and admire good magicians. They express a desire for their own fears to disappear, perhaps hoping that by understanding these skills, they can also overcome their personal anxieties. Overall, "Good Magicians" explores the awe and fascination that come with witnessing someone's talent while highlighting the narrator's insecurities and longing to understand and replicate that talent.
