David Kwong

David Kwong, a magician and puzzle creator known for his work on films like Now You See Me, shares his journey blending magic and puzzles. He recounts childhood moments that sparked his passion and discusses the cultural implications of magic through academic insights. Kwong reveals his unique artistry, including a captivating trick with a dollar bill, and emphasizes the importance of storytelling in creative processes. He also touches on the rise of word games like Wordle, showcasing their appeal and social dynamics.

David Kwong, a magician and New York Times crossword puzzle constructor, explores how technology, especially AI, can enhance our sense of wonder. He creatively engages the audience with a mind-reading demo using ChatGPT, showcasing the magic in AI interactions. Kwong argues that advancements don’t diminish awe; they amplify it. Through entertaining anecdotes and audience participation, he illustrates the value of curiosity and the joy of questioning, blending the art of magic with innovative technology.

Crosswords! Puzzles! Wordles! Magic? Ah yes, world-renowned Enigmatologist David Kwong drops in to chat about the intersection of sleight of hand and brain games, covering everything from Scrabble strategies to how to get away with a surprise party unsuspected. Also: crosswords and dementia, how puzzles are like hot sauce, a secret group of Hollywood magicians, his most clever clues, cryptic crosswords, international slang, Wordle’s many derivatives, and how to get over your intimidation of all those empty squares. Follow David Kwong on Twitter and Instagram His websiteThe ENIGMAS playing card deck – with puzzles!A donation went to lollipoptheater.orgMore episode sources and linksMore episodes you may enjoy: Etymology (WORD ORIGINS), Mythology (STORYTELLING), Molecular Neurobiology (BRAIN CHEMICALS)Sponsors of OlogiesTranscripts and bleeped episodesSmologies (short, classroom-safe) episodesBecome a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a monthOlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes!Follow @Ologies on Twitter and InstagramFollow @AlieWard on Twitter and InstagramSound editing by Mark David Christenson & Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam MediaTranscripts by Emily White of The WordaryWebsite by Kelly R. DwyerTheme song by Nick Thorburn