Magick vs. Magic?

[Greybeard]

It would seem that some authors have taken to spelling magic with a "k" at the end, which is magick. Why are they doing this? Is there a substantive difference?

 

[James Chandler]

No, it is just intended to look more arcane...or something. I've never liked it.

 

[Amanita]

Crowley used this spelling if I remember correctly. So if someine is actually basing his magic system off his in a Urban fantasy or something it might make a bit of sense.
In alternate fantasy worlds? Not really.

 

[Derin]

I've seen it work, but generally I think it just sounds pretentious. It gives a certain fantasy punk feel to things if done well, but in general I prefer to stick with the common spelling.

It's not just a fantasy novel thing; a lot of New Agers and neopagans spell it that way too.

 

[BeigePalladin]

I don't think it means anything different, just a different spelling. for people who want their magick to be 'less mainstream'

or something like that

 

[Digital_Fey]

I don't think it means anything in particular, except that the author is trying to be pretentious. It's almost as bad as spelling vampire with a y...

 

[BeigePalladin]

but vampyre looks epic and edgy, and sooo much cooler or not

I'd say calling alternate spellings pretentious is a little far though...

 

[Donny Bruso]

Alternate spellings are useful in names. Spelling an established word of the English language differently just because you can is pretentious.

 

[TWErvin2]

I looked it up at Magick: | Define Magick: at Dictionary.com

–noun
1. Archaic . magic.
2. a power or effort associated with wicca.

Both may tie into the theme or focus of novel. But then again, maybe not.