a magician never reveals his secrets

English[edit]

A polite refusal by someone who has just done a magic trick to reveal how it works.
(by extension) A refusal to explain how one accomplished something impressive.
- 2003, Michelle Woody, Figment of the Heart, →ISBN, page 291:
  "So how did you do it? Who were the bodies I saw? You didn't kill someone did you?” “No,” Nathan said, almost insulted by her questions, but a smile came over him. “A magician never reveals his secrets, Damarus. Now turn around and enjoy the silence.”
- 2015, Anthony Tyler, A Cold Dead Place, →ISBN:
  Combs took a sip of his coffee and recoiled, forgetting how hot it was. He ignored the burning of his tongue, though, and asked Williams: "How did you know it was me?" “A magician never reveals his secrets.”
- 2016, K. Lache, Valor, →ISBN:
  "How did you get your hands on it?" The kidnapper shrugged, coyly. "I have my ways." "Which are what, exactly?" The kidnapper tsked, shaking a finger at him. “A magician never reveals his secrets, and a reporter never gives up his source.” Blare groaned, struggling to lift his head.