Confabulation

“Confabulation” in the context of mentalism is a class of prediction effects where the performer seemingly predicts or foresees multiple unrelated pieces of information provided by the audience. Typically, the mentalist asks several spectators for random inputs, such as a location, a movie title, or a celebrity’s name. These contributions are then revealed to have been accurately predicted in advance, often in a written form like a sealed envelope, diary entry, or letter. This effect relies on various methods, including forcing techniques, dual reality, or secret writing during the performance. The strength of confabulation lies in its ability to create a cohesive and personalized narrative that feels impossible to fake. Unlike simpler predictions that focus on a single outcome, confabulation combines multiple elements into one grand revelation, heightening its impact and leaving audiences astonished. It is considered one of the most versatile and theatrical tools in mentalism and is often used as the grand finale.