Blacksmithing is a fascinating subject: logical yet mysterious; elementary in its importance to the development of civilization, yet highly sophisticated in its practice. The blacksmith is epitomized by sheer brute strength, but such an epitome misses the mark widely. Brains, imagination, the power of visualization are far more important than brawn to the smith. The secret of success in the trade is really intellect, and this must have been true of its beginnings.