Many magickal workbooks and related display spirits or portray them once summoned as grotesque creatures that look like they’ve leaped straight out of a horror movie. The reality and truth of the matter is that this is generally not the case, depending which system is being utilized. Most of them hide behind such an appearance; think of it like a “poker face”, hiding their true selves until you have proven that you’re worth their trust etc. It’s simple actually, as we as people do this in the same way; you only show who you truly are once you feel at ease with a person in general. Examples:

. The spirit Sitri in books: Leopard form- in reality: Man with skyblue/ orange robe.
. The spirit Satan in books and lore: Serpent- in reality: Man in black Roman soldier/ Roman emperor getup.

One of the things that plays a vital role is the way you treat them; Be respectful and pure of intent and they won’t appear as hideous overall. On the other hand, if you think that you’re going to treat them like slaves, barking orders and whatnot, then prepare for a toothless, one-eyed monster or something similar. He’s showing you His ugly side.