Magick With A “K” by Magickkate

Great question! The terms “magic” and “magick” are often used differently, especially in esoteric or occult communities. The spelling “magick,” with the added “k,” was popularized by the famous occultist Aleister Crowley in the early twentieth century. Crowley introduced the term to distinguish true, spiritual, or transformative practices from “stage magic” or illusions performed for entertainment.

For Crowley, “magick” encompassed practices aimed at personal transformation, spiritual enlightenment, and aligning one’s will with a higher purpose. In his view, magick was about directing energy or intent to bring about change on a personal or spiritual level. He described it as “the science and art of causing change to occur in conformity with will.”

Since then, “magick” has stuck within occult and pagan communities as a way to reference spiritual practices, rituals, or energy work. While some people still use the term “magic” in these contexts, “magick” often signals an approach focused on spiritual or occult purposes rather than tricks or illusions.

Now there isn’t really a difference in spelling between British and American English when it comes to “magic” versus “magick.” This distinction is purely related to the practice itself, not to regional spelling conventions.

Both British and American English typically use “magic” when referring to things like stage magic or fantasy magic (such as in literature and movies). “Magick,” on the other hand, specifically refers to the esoteric and occult meaning popularized by Aleister Crowley, and it’s used in both British and American contexts to distinguish spiritual practices from entertainment magic.

So, regardless of English dialect, “magic” is used for general purposes, while “magick” signals a deeper, ritualistic, or spiritual practice.

While “magick” has become a common way to indicate a specific type of spiritual or occult practice, using “magic” instead is still completely valid. Many practitioners use “magic” to describe their work and don’t feel the need to add the “k,” especially if they believe their intent is clear from the context.

Using “magic” without the “k” can also make conversations about these topics more accessible, as “magick” sometimes gives the impression of being exclusive or specialized. Ultimately, it’s a personal choice, and both spellings are understood and accepted in spiritual and esoteric circles.

For my personal use, unless it’s cosmetic, I use the term “magic” with the meaning of the occult as a practitioner. However, as my name shows, I like the aesthetic flow of the extra “k”.

Let me know if that answers your question or raises others! Thanks for sharing that with me!