Page 1587 - Head Cannon
16th Sep 2021, 6:00 AM in "Magical Mystery Cure":http://friendshipisdragons.thecomicseries.com/archive/57105

As has been clearly shown before, I'm not above using delaying tactics to give myself, the author, more time to figure out how I'm going to handle a much more specific and artful piece of prose.

Twilight Sparkle: Ah. Well... Hmm. This is a lot harder than I thought – and I didn't think it'd be easy. Is it supposed to rhyme? Fit the meter? Will failing to match the pattern weaken the final spell?
DM: Short answer: No, it's not going to be that strict.
Applejack: An' the longer answer?
DM: Well... This actually touches on some of my "headcanon" when it comes to verbal and somatic components of spells. It's not a well-known aspect in the universe of this setting, but it's relevant. See, casting is mostly about willpower and focus. Incantations, rhymes, grand gestures, even mathematical symbols all help the wizard focus. So in ancient magic, you'll see a lot more poetry and choreography, but in more modern magical practice–
Rainbow Dash: Kiiinda losing the plot there, buddy.
DM: Oh, right. Well, you asked for the longer answer.
Applejack: Figured it wouldn't take much to get you rollin'.
DM: Tell you what, is now a good time for a food break?
Twilight Sparkle: Yeah, I'm going to need the extra brainstorming time.
Pinkie Pie: Ooh, ooh! Lemme help!