What is the pledge in magic?

In magic, the "pledge" refers to the first stage of a classic narrative structure often used in magic tricks or illusions. It involves presenting an object or a situation that seems ordinary and familiar, establishing a baseline of reality. This sets the stage for the subsequent phases of the trick, where the object is then manipulated or transformed, leading to the "turn" and ultimately the "prestige," where the final revelation occurs. The pledge draws the audience in, creating intrigue and setting up the surprise.