While stirring the foul brew the third witch lists her contribution to the recipe. The play describes the witches circling the boiling cauldron while chanting the spell, and later in this scene they dance before they disappear. Physical actions performed while casting a spell are called "power raising". While the individual casting the spell may be required to simply stand and speak the words, perhaps the spell requires others to perform some kind of activity, such as swaying or repeating a sound or humming or perhaps walking in a single direction. A wand or staff could be brought into play, and used to direct those assisting with the spell, or perhaps pointing in a specific direction or at a certain target. Perhaps a tune could be played upon a magical flute, or maybe there's a short song to accompany the spell. Another option is the creation of a specific symbol to complete the spell, and this could be carved into a hard substance such as rock with a magical pencil... the possibilities are endless, and the only limitation is the writer's imagination.

Remember...

While researching this newsletter I came across a couple of phrases to apply when casting a spell, and you might want to consider using them if the character casting or using the spell is a heroic type. As discussed in the last newsletter there's a price to be paid when using magic, so great caution should be exercised by your characters. One example I found was from a girl who cast a spell to get a few days off work - she got her wish when she broke her leg and was off work for three months! The following phrases are supposed to enhance the spell without granting the wish at another's expense:

For the good of all.
This or something better comes to me.

A variation on both those themes could prove useful for your character's spell. Another point to remember is your character's intellect; do not allow him/her to use words he/she might not understand or know. A high priest/ess, witch or wizard will have far greater command and control of the magical arts than one of their apprentices, a fairy or a goblin.

Use positives when casting a spell. Don't use words like "I don't want to be sick anymore" and have your character's health immediately restored. Spells should be viewed as affirmations with images and symbols, so the spell needs to reflect this as well as a positive attitude and faith in magic. Suggested wording: "I am healthy, I am strong, all of the day and all night long."

In conclusion, these are the final lines of the Macbeth witches' spell. In deference to Mr Shakespeare I should point out the first two lines are spoken at the end of each witch's "list":