STA

P
SPINN
ER
TARO
T
 a guide {o

STAQ
SPINNEQ
TAQOT
 rung es
Copyright 0 2020 by Trungles
All rights reserved. No part
of this book may be
reproduced in any form
without written permission
from the publisher.

ISBN: 978-1-4521-8006-9

Manufactured in China.
MIX
Paper
FSC*
FSC C017606

Design by Maggie Edelman and

Evelyn Furuta.

109 8 7 6 54 3 2 1
Chronicle Books LLC
680 Second Street
 San Francisco, California
94107 [Link]

CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION to the Tarot . . . . . . . 4
The Major and Minor Arcana . . . . . . . . . . 6
INSTRUCTIONS for Your Reading. . 8
SPREADS. . 9

The Major Arcana. . . . . . . . 13

The Minor Arcana. . 59
Wands . 61

Chalices . . 77

Swords . . 93
Coins 109

About the Artist. . . . . 1 25

 INTQODUCTION
TO THE TAROT
The tarot has had a long and complicated
journey. The earliest iterations of playing cards
recognizable to today's readers were beautifully
hand-painted playing cards from western Asia
and northern Africa. First created for use in
card games, then popularized as a means of
divination around the turn of the twentieth
century, the tarot has been more recently
regarded as a tool for interpersonal reflection.
Each deck functions as a many faceted
storybook designed to help you assess your life
and circumstances in new ways.
The deck is roughly divided into five
segments. The Major Arcana speaks to big life
themes, while each of the four suits in the
Minor Arcana corresponds to distinct regions of
your life. The Chalices center the heart, the
Swords center the mind, the Coins refer to
material resources, and the Wands refer to
creative resources.

4
 Western interest in the Occult and a
generous dose of Orientalism greatly informed
much of the iconography of the most
recognizable tarot decks. At the turn of the
century, European tastemakers and artists
would often misappropriate imagery from
Africa and Asia to convey a superficial sense of
mystery and exoticism, and even the classic
Rider-Waite-Smith deck is no exception. The
Star Spinner is meant to evoke iconography that
is less deeply rooted in that esoteric visual
language and challenge the imperialist
trappings of that time. The images draw from
children's stories, myths, and fairy tales that
might already be familiar to the reader. You will
find mermaids with hearts abundant as the
ocean, fairies playing between dreaming and
waking. You might find the fruit of knowledge
hinting at a transition between naivety and
knowing, and you'll discover old goddesses of
the moon and the sun in a new light.
Forgoing the promise of cosmic insight, the
Star Spinner Tarot trusts that you know your
own life best. It is a medium by which you can
illuminate the threads that connect seemingly
disparate pieces of your day-to-day
5
experiences. Each reading is a gentle reminder
to carefully examine those connections and
figure out how to make the most of your
discoveries. It is created to be a gentle guide,
like softly twinkling stars over a particularly
long stretch of night.

THE MA JOP AND

MINOR APC ANA
The Major Arcana is comprised of twenty-two
cards representing the major moments or
lessons in your life. Numbered O to 21 (XXI),
these cards have a bit more gravity to them
than the Minor Arcana, and they can strongly
affect the greater themes present in a reading.
Chronologically, the cards cast the figure of the
Fool, an allegory for the the reader of the cards,
as the story's protagonist, and each card in the
Major Arcana corresponds to part of the Fool's
Journey.
The Minor Arcana is divided into four suits
of fourteen cards each, ten of them numbered,
and four court cards. The numbered cards refer
to small moments or specific instances in your

6
life, while the court cards tend to represent
people of different temperaments at different
places in their journeys.
The Suit of Chalices is primarily concerned with
emotions and relationships. It is about love and kinship
in all its forms, as well as all those things a close
relationship can build. Associated with water, the
Chalices can be both nourishing and tempestuous. This
deck's Chalices roughly follow the journey of Hans
Christian Andersen's ne Little
Mermaid. Themes of longing, desire, sacrifice,
and fulfillment are at the heart of the deck.
The Suit of Swords represents intellect. It
deals with matters of the mind in frank and
occasionally brutally honest ways. Though the
mind is a beautiful thing, it can also obsess and
become selfdestructive. The Swords are
associated with the element of air, and they
signify action, decision, direction, and
consequences. Here, the cards tend to skew
closer to more traditional tarot imagery.
The Suit of Coins deals with material
resources. The Coins are associated with the
earth, and they are concerned with money,
livelihood, and wealth. The motif of the
rabbits implies good luck and proliferation on
7
the surface, but it also connects the Coins to
the Moon card, emphasizing the relationship
between our resources and our emotions.
The Suit of Wands represents passion,
energy, and creative motivation. The Wands are
connected to fire, and they deal with the things
that spark a sense of purpose within us. The
Wands speak to matters of spirituality,
creativity, and passion. Fairies guide the
imagery of this suit, signifying the twilight
space between inspiration and action.

INSTPUCTIONS
FOP YOUQ PEADING
It is common practice among tarot readers to
get to know each deck they use.
Recommended methods vary, but it is
generally agreed that a stronger relationship
with a deck makes for smoother and more
precise readings. The simplest means of
getting to know your deck is through
continued use.
This deck features multiple variants of the
Lovers card. For the most faithfully traditional
8
readings, remove all but one of the Lovers.
Select the one that feels best suited to you, and
lay the rest aside before each reading. Having
multiples of the same card may have an adverse
effect on readings, especially if the reading
requires fewer cards. Once the deck has its
intended seventyeight cards, you may begin.
First, the deck must be shuffled. You may
choose to do this yourself, or, if you're
reading for someone else, you may ask if they
would like to shuffle the deck instead. (The
"querent' is the person for whom the reading
is being conducted.) Once the cards are
shuffled, focus on your intentions, your
questions for the Star Spinner, and lay the
cards in the spread that best meets your needs.

SPQEADS
SINGLE-CARD DRAW
Ask a simple question, draw a card, and consider the
card's relationship to your question. The strength of the
cards is in their relationships to one another, so this
method won't answer all your questions. However, a
single-card draw can be a great way to get acquainted

9
with each individual card and make it easier to
navigate more complex readings.

FOUR-CARD SPREAD
This is an easy spread for beginners, and it
can be used for quick and elegantly simple
readings. The answers it yields are usually
broad and straightforward, with the card's
position representing the following.

l . The querent
2. The past
3. The present
4. The future
THE CELTIC CROSS
The Celtic Cross is one of the most widely used
spreads. Though it looks complex, the Celtic
Cross progresses in a rather intuitive pattern.
This spread requires a more confident handle

10
on the meanings of the individual cards as well
as their relationships to one another.
The Celtic Cross is divided into two
segments. On the left is the querent. This
portion makes sense of the person for whom the
reading is conducted. It places the querent in a
place on their journey and illustrates their
priorities, both intellectual and emotional. On
the right is the advice column. This portion
suggests actions and consequences.
The tenth and final card in the spread reveals
the eventual outcome of the situation, should
the querent choose to stay their course.

l . The querent
2. The present challenge
3. The mind's ambition
4. The heart's desire
5. The past
6. The future
7. Advice or suggested action
8. Context for the suggested action
9. The querent's hopes and fears
10. The foreseeable outcome
11
12
 Ike
UPRIGHT

14
 fool

The Fool indicates one who is ready to take the first steps in a new
direction and explore previously untapped potential. There is a
deep naivety about the Fool, representing someone who lives in the
moment and looks ahead only to positive possibilities. The impetus
to move forward is only done on a whim, plain and simple. The
optimistic nature of this card is buoyed by a bit of good luck and a
predilection for adventure.

REVERSE
YVhat are the areas in your life where you are reticent for
no reason? In this position, the Fool cautions us to check
our stubborn, petulant side. Take responsibility for your
own missteps. Uncharted territory can be
anxietyinducing. Do not let this fear make you afraid of
new opportunities. Do not be afraid of growth.
 magIcian

The Magician makes efficient use of all available

tools. While the Fool daydreams of grand possibility,
the Magician takes the steps necessary to realize
those dreams. There is planning and intentionality
involved, as well as resourcefulness and a clarity of
purpose. While the Fool relies on luck, the Magician
knows luck favors the prepared.

REVERSE
The Magician in this position is a reminder
that desire for control can be stifling or even
destructive. In this case, the inclination to
plan is almost solely motivated by fear. Even
the best laid plans can be upended, but it is
still possible to move forward after stumbling.
Beware of those subtle manipulators who seek
to wrest control of your fate out from your
own hands.
magician
 Ike
UPRIGHT

priesless

The High Priestess is a symbol of wisdom and

introspection. The moon and the sun held up
by the pillars illustrate how both clarity and
mystery can support the same essential
truths. While the Magician makes use of the
known world looking outward, the High
Priestess turns inward. YVhen the observable
truth presents more obstacles than solutions,
it may be appropriate to trust the things you
know but cannot yet name. Trust your heart.

REVERSE
In this position, the High Priestess
encourages us to discern the difference
between a mystery and a lie. Trusting your
intuition must be tempered with a healthy
degree of skepticism. Are you unable to
name your challenges because they are

18
new? Or is it because the full scope of the
truth has been concealed from you? Who is
keeping secrets?
 Ike
UPRIGHT

20
 empress

The Empress is representative of generosity and comfort.

The Fool wishes, the Magician plans, the High Priestess
ponders, and the Empress provides. This card indicates the
satisfaction of natural desires through careful cultivation
and mindful stewardship.

REVERSE
Priorities must be reassessed. You may have neglected to
attend to those things that are essential to your happiness.
Attempts to convey care and thoughtfulness have twisted
into something smothering and overbearing. If you
overwater your plants, their roots will rot.

21
 Ike
UPRIGHT

22
 emperor

The Emperor brings steady leadership and direction, and

represents reliability and organization. Under the
Emperor's leadership, there is a protocol at the ready for
every possible challenge. The world is represented on his
scepter, tying the Emperor to the suit of Coins. The eagle
indicates a sharpness of mind, a connection to the suit of
Swords. You find yourself confident in your capacity to
make responsible decisions for yourself and others. You
have done as much preparation as is necessary, so move
forward with your plans.

REVERSE
In this position, the Emperor is a tyrannical figure. Power
is abused and corrupted. Institutions are rigid, unmoving,
and unfair. The tallest fortress walls are only a veneer, and
they will crumble under the slightest scrutiny. Beware of
those who feel entitled to your loyalty, your labor, and
your livelihood. Likewise, be careful not to overstep your
sense of authority.

23
 Ike
UPRIGHT

24
 Kieropkanl

While the High Priestess represents our internal spiritual

workings, the Hierophant is a figure of benign externalized
spirituality—a representative of spiritual authority,
guidance, and tradition.
The keys mark the Hierophant as a gatekeeper. Though
there may be some preparation and commitment
necessary, it may be worthwhile to seek an organized
outlet for a shared expression of spirituality.

REVERSE
The Hierophant in reverse is a dogmatic figure who must
be questioned. The systems and traditions from which the
Hierophant's authority is granted might be oppressive,
bloated by corruption, or twisted with hypocrisy.
Interrogate whether your expressions of spirituality are
hollow displays of piety or truly meant to serve the greater
good.

25
 Ike

lovers
Before thefirst shuffe, remember to add only the lovers card
or cards that call toyou the most toyour deck.

UPRIGHT
The Lovers represent mutual desire. They
herald healthy partnerships, unions born of
consent and enthusiasm. There is attraction
and passionate exploration fueled by a mutual
curiosity, signified by the apples. The
presence of the apples in this deck serves as a
symbol of curiosity fulfilled and of maturity.
The relationship feels like paradise, and all
parties seem to be getting what they want and
need. A healthy balance is struck between
desire and promise, wishing and fulfillment.

REVERSE

27
 Ike
The Lovers reversed warns of broken
unions. A cycle of mutual desire and
beneficence is broken, leaving one or all
involved parties feeling incomplete and
bereft. The card may also indicate that a
partnership has stagnated and begun to
fester without proper care and attention. Can
Eden be forever?

28
UPRIGHT
Vil
{he c arid
The Chariot is a card of steady progression
and clear goals. It represents healthy
motivation, willpower, and practical
application of wisdom. The Chariot
represents certainty. There is a definitive
sense of direction that propels the journey.
Challenges are considered, addressed, and
overcome. The black and white cats indicate
duality, and they look in two different
directions. The Chariot has no reins and is
propelled by force of will.

REVERSE

30
UPRIGHT
The Chariot reversed asks you to interrogate
your goals and means of achieving them.
Check for undue ruthlessness and question
honestly whether the ends are worth the
current means. There may be better ways
forward. The Chariot may also be telling you
that you are being pulled in several different
directions, but you can only chart one way
forward. Take a step back and figure out what
your motivations should be before you
continue your journey.

31
UPRIGHT
forti{ucJe

Fortitude is the representative of courage,

and there is no courage without fear. This
card indicates that you have found a healthy
measure of patience for yourself. This is a
reminder to acknowledge your shortcomings
and all the anxieties that accompany them,
and then work your way forward. The lotus
flower represents the way that strength is
cultivated. Out of the mud and through the
water, a beautiful flower rises.

REVERSE
In this position, Fortitude reminds you to be
more patient with yourself. Our
shortcomings, our flaws, and all our past

33
UPRIGHT
mistakes are parts of us, but those things
should not hinder our growth. If we are not
gentle and patient with ourselves, how can
we cultivate our growth? Progress requires
risk; remind yourself that you are worth that
risk.

34
 UPRIGHT
Ike Inermi{

The Hermit is similar to the High Priestess with an

emphasis on seeking the truth, but the Hermit is most
concerned with assessing everything that has happened to
inform your place in the world. Perhaps difficult decisions
were made, but you have largely made peace with the
outcome. The Hermit represents a need for introspection
and retreat. Sometimes it is difficult to be in the world, so
it is necessary to step back and affirm yourself. The
Hermit uses a sounding staff to gently alert those around
you that you are moving through a space.

REVERSE
In reverse, the Hermit lacks certainty. Did you do the right
thing? You may have withdrawn into yourself out of fear
of irreparable mistakes. Your confidence is broken, and
you are unable to forgive yourself. You self-isolate to hide
from the world and turn your eyes away from the choices
that led you here. It is time to come out of hiding and face
your fears.

Kermit

36
 wkeel of fate

The Wheel of Fate is a reminder that things are as they are

meant to be. There are good turns and there are bad turns,
but so long as the Wheel turns, life proceeds. It is a
reminder that, despite all its highs and lows, life continues.
The Wheel of Fate generally heralds a certain amount of
good luck.

REVERSE
The Wheel has hit a snag, unable to move forward.
Sometimes challenges can slow you down, but it's
important not to let them stop you altogether. Things
cannot get better if you dwell on your lowest points. In this
position, the Wheel encourages you to keep going, or else
your poor luck will never change.
35

jusiice

Justice reminds us to actively course-correct those

instances of institutional bias. It is not simply a matter of
what is fair. Justice interrogates which lenses are corrupted
by structures that value a concentration of power.
 UPRIGHT
Regardless of whether or not it benefits you personally,
value and pursue what is right instead of, or perhaps
despite, what is popular.

REVERSE
Justice reversed is a reminder to ask when and how we are
complicit in perpetuating injustice. What do you omit from
your personal narrative to protect your comfort? What
stake do you have in maintaining the status quo? You
currently benefit from someone else's loss, and you must
take steps to correct this.

38
 Ike Kange man
UPRIGHT
The Hanged Man is an appeal to patience. It
might feel like too much is currently on hold,
but perhaps this is for the best. The Hanged
Man asks you to be patient with yourself and
serves as a reminder that growth comes
slowly. Be assured that biding your time is not
the same as wasting it. There is no sense in
picking a fruit before it has time to ripen.

REVERSE
In reverse, the Hanged Man warns that your
personal stagnation might be due to an
inability to articulate those frustrating things
that give you pause. Are you giving yourself
a reprieve, or are you clinging to this
moment because change is difficult? The

40
card asks how others might be adversely
affected by your willful stubbornness.

41
 deadl

The Death card portends change. Nyx holds her

child, Thanatos, gently beckoning souls into the
next life. Though it may initially read as a bad
omen, Death simply refers to cycles of change
in a broader sense. When an era comes to a
close, a new one springs up at its heels. The
figure of Death in this case signifies
satisfactory closure and completion.

REVERSE
Death in reverse warns of ghosts. You may
lack proper closure, and be unable to let go of
the past. By dwelling on life as it was, you
cannot proceed, and you forget to live.
UPRIGHT

44
41
temperance

Temperance signifies self—discipline and

strength of character. As Death suggests an
ever-changing world, Temperance represents
the certainty that the most essential parts of
ourselves will remain. Despite the challenges
and the pain that often accompany change and
growth, you may find that your strong personal
and interpersonal foundations help keep you
grounded.

REVERSE
The reversed Temperance card reveals that
those things we cling to in times of upheaval
are not as reliable as we once believed.
Examine your personal and interpersonal habits
and honestly determine which of those things
perpetuate patterns that drain you of your
resources, your energy, your compassion, and
your creativity.
入Ⅳ
 UPRIGHT
temperance

46
 devil

The Devil is the avatar of compulsion and

desire. Though we are inclined to temper our
indulgent impulses, it is sometimes healthy to
seek an outlet for them. You might take the next
opportunity to yield to your passions. It could be
just what you need. However, the Devil also
warns you not to lose yourself in your passions
or they will become your vices.

REVERSE
Your penchant for self-restraint and discipline
has become stifling. Though you are dutiful and
responsible, you have denied yourselfjoy and
satisfaction in your day-to-day living. When
good behavior is its own reward, it might be
difficult to find motivation. It may also be that
your pursuit of pleasure has taken a turn for the
worse, and what began as a momentary release
has developed into a bad habit.
devil

47
 Ike
UPRIGHT
lower

The Tower bodes upheaval, moments where you

are shaken to your very core and can feel your
foundations crumbling beneath you. You may
wonder who you have become. That which you
have built to protect yourself may be the very
thing that ultimately crushes you. In the
broadest sense, a revolt has occurred, and old
institutions can no longer stand.

REVERSE
The walls you have built remain strong, but you
never leave them. In an effort to hide from the
wind and cold, you have also shut away the sun
and stars. You resist change because it may
entail starting over. To your mind, a fresh start is
more of a threat than a new opportunity.
{ower

48
 slar
The Star is the guardian of this deck. She
represents hope and endless possibility. The Star
gently nurtures the flowers, and the ibis, a
steward of creativity and magic, circles about
her. After the Tower has fallen and the light of
dusk fades into night, the Star is there to help
you make your way through the dark. All you
have to do is look up.

REVERSE
As the dust settles and the Tower lies in ruin,
you may find yourself alone in the dark.
Reversed, the Star cautions that you have fallen
deep in despair and cannot move forward. Signs
of hope seem too good to be true, and you feel
more lost than ever. Take a moment to breathe
and give yourself space to become reoriented.

49
UPRIGHT
ÅV I I I
{Ine moon

The Moon is the card of dreams, Though you

cannot know every bend in your path,
continue to aspire and imagine. Precious little
is illuminated by moonlight, and your
fantasies can guide your impressions. This
also means you may be led by your fears and
anxieties. The Moon is represented here by a
faithful Wife Who once guarded a seed Of
immortality for her husband. When n wicked
man attempted to steal it for himself, she
swallowed the seed and ascended into the

51
UPRIGHT
heavens, The moon is her home; follow her
guidance and trust your instincts.

REVERSE
In this position, the Moon suggests that you
may find it difficult to trust yourself, Identify
the things that make you doubt your OWtt
judgment. Are you motivated by obligation.
or are you listening to your gut? You may
need to examine When your decisions are
informed by someone else's fears.

52
 UPRIGHT
Ike sun
The Sun augurs a moment of sudden illumination. Truths
are plainly observable, and there is joy and relief. The Sun
brings warmth and the potential for growth as new patterns
and habits are cultivated. This is a time to acknowledge
and celebrate what makes you brilliant.

REVERSE
Though you may welcome an opportunity to bask in your
own brilliance, it might be wise to assess the kind of space
and attention you take. The ten crows rising in this card
represent the sun goddess's ten children who, so impatient
for glory, raced across the sky together and scorched the
earth below. Do you seek to illuminate truth and beauty
with your radiance, or do you simply burn too bright and
too hot?

54
55
 UPRIGHT
ju gmen{

Judgment represents strength of character. Your journey

has been long and difficult, and you have risen to the
occasion at every challenge. You are ready to look back on
your journey and assess your triumphs and failures.
Judgment heralds a spiritual awakening. As one part of
your journey comes to a close. a higher purpose calls to
you. Heed that call.

REVERSE
Looking back on your long journey, do you notice that you
have taken on too much? You may have overcommitted in
an attempt to meet long-term goals, leaving you feeling
overwhelmed and embittered. In this position, Judgment
indicates a certain amount of unresolved enmity for the
past. You have hidden aspects Of your journey
out of embarrassment or regret, but now you must
confront them before you can move on to your greater
culling.

56
UPRIGHT
Ike world

You find yourself very much a part of the

World, and you know your place in it.
Getting here has required much growth and
pain, but you arrive with a sense Of
completion and fulfillment. This card
indicates success and accomplishment. Now
that you know that you are capable of seeing
things through to satisfaction, you can begin
a new journey.

REVERSE
In an effort to have everything you want,
you have spread yourself too thin and
failed to see goals through to completion.
You may remain within the confines of
your comfort zones to protect yourself
from the wider World, stifling your
capacity to reach your full potential.

wor

58
ТНЕ
MlNOP
ДПСДНД

60
WANDS

62
 o wan s
UPRIGHT

The Ace of Wands represents an

initial spark that will lead to
bigger things. There is creative
energy brewing, and with it
comes clarity and focus. You
would do well to take advantage
of this moment of invigoration in
case it leads to more exciting
opportunities.

REVERSE

63
 o wan s
UPRIGHT
Be wary of moments of hesitation due to laziness. This will
stagnate growth and hinder personal progress. If you
struggle to engage with your initial interests, passion will
gradually turn into mere obligation.
Your projects may lack inspiration.
From the initial spark of the Ace,
take that energy and chart a
course. Although you have a
clearer idea of what your goals
must be, there is still a good deal
of planning to do. It requires a bit
of willpower, but ultimately you
understand how to apply your
energies toward your goals.

REVERSE
You are caught at an impasse. Decision-making is
difficult because you are still much too precious
about your inspirations. If you do not fan those
sparks, they will dwindle and dissipate. You must
not lose out on grand opportunities because you are
afraid of making the wrong choice.

64
 o wan s
UPRIGHT
You look out into the broader
world and can bridge your
abstract planning with material
progress. You can clearly observe
the opportunities and challenges
ahead of you, and it emboldens
you to continue. Your plans
appear to be moving along as
expected.

REVERSE
Though you find yourself moving forward, the
rewards seem to be middling and unimpressive.
Your expectations are not being met, and your
long-term goals seem discouragingly far away.
Goalposts are shifting, and your long-term
planning may encounter
unforeseen challenges.

You have been working a great

deal, and there is plenty to
celebrate. The Four of Wands
indicates that you're approaching
a point in your journey where you
65
 o wan s
UPRIGHT
can afford to look back on all your hard work and
congratulate yourself for it. Now is the time to
celebrate your accomplishments with your loved
ones.

REVERSE
The foundations you have built feel unsteady.
There has been a breakdown in communication
somewhere in your closer circles, and it makes
everyone feel ill at ease. Someone in your life
might believe they are fully committed to
something when they still have doubts. This could
spell disaster down the line. It is time to sort out
those variables and seek some measure of
certainty.

The Five of YVands represents

chaos and tension. There might
be some compelling
disagreements in your life, and
nobody seems willing to
compromise. A disruptive new
element has entered the fray, and
a tenuous period of harmony has
66
 o wan s
UPRIGHT
been disturbed. This need not be a negative thing.
This great discord may help you better understand
your ideals. Difficult conversations are being had,
and issues can be confronted up front.

REVERSE
You refuse to engage in difficult conversations for
fear of disturbing the status quo. In this position,
the Five of vvands indicates that you are hesitant to
accept conflict as a necessary part of growth and
would prefer to avoid it altogether. Though you
maintain a fragile peace, you continue to step
lightly for fear of tearing open old wounds, and
refuse to stand up for yourself.

VI

You emerge from the fray to

find yourself victorious. The Six
of Wands tells how you have
persevered from recent
difficulties and come out on top.
67
 o wan s
UPRIGHT
You have maintained a positive reputation despite
having had many difficult conversations and
engaging in various conflicts. Though the grounds
upon which you've tended your relationships have
been well trodden, your relationships continue to
bloom and stand tall.

REVERSE
Your progression toward your goals is thwarted.
Success is postponed, and you must work much
harder than you realized to hit your milestones. You
encounter failure where you expect success. The
Six of Wands also points to a moment where you
find yourself humbled. Confidence is shaken. You
may feel like the result of your work is not worth
the tremendous effort you have put into it.

68
 o s
UPRIGHT

Vi l
wan

You rise to meet your

challenges. The Seven of
Wands indicates competition
and the continued maintenance
of the status you have achieved.
Though you may face
difficulties, you choose to stand
firm. There is no adversity with
which you cannot engage,
regardless of whether you win or lose. You are
sure of your goals, and there is no negotiating
them.

REVERSE
The struggle proves to be too much, and you
are overwhelmed from the effort of defending

69
 o wan s
UPRIGHT
yourself. You are plagued with self-doubt and
feelings of inadequacy. This loss of position is
a blow to your self—esteem, and your
confidence is shattered. You have yielded to the
will of others despite your ethical or moral
reservations.
You are energized and ready for
your next steps after a long period of waiting.
There is sudden inspiration and motivation, and
this burst of energy will help you move forward.
The Eight of Wands can also indicate travel or
momentum. You may have broken through a
creative block, and you feel as though you are
finally going places.

REVERSE
Though you want to move on to the next stage in
your goals, it feels like an uphill battle. There is
restlessness and willingness to move, but there is
also a lack of direction. This causes impatience

70
 o wan s
UPRIGHT
and distraction, which further
exacerbates your delays.
The Nine of Wands
represents resilience in the face
of weariness. You have been
working your way toward your
goals for a very long time, and
fatigue is setting in. Difficult
lessons have been learned, and
you continue down your path
unhindered, dutifully moving forward through
sheer force of will. There is nc giving up when
your goals are so close.

REVERSE
Your setbacks have proven to be too much, and
you feel broken under the weight of your
responsibilities. The journey has been long and
unfulfilling, and you cannot remember the point
Of all the struggle. You feel unsupported in your
efforts. This may be a good opportunity to

71
 o wan s
UPRIGHT
redefine your notion of success. If you feel like
you have been set up to fail, try
to determine what would help
make your goals more
manageable.
You have worked very hard,
and you have amassed many
accomplishments.
Unfortunately, this also carries
with it more responsibility. You
must continue to guard,
cultivate, and maintain everything for which you
have worked so hard. A grand and beautiful
garden requires more care and attention than a
single potted plant. Though you have built
something grand, you must now shift your
attention to its upkeep.

REVERSE
Those things you have amassed now feel
burdensome to maintain. You might feel ready to

72
 o wan s
UPRIGHT
move on, but you have invested so much in where
you are. The motivation to grow is outweighed by
the inclination to keep things as they are. You
cannot take on much more.

73
 o s
PAGE wan
UPRIGHT
The Page of Wands is an eager
and enthusiastic personality, full
of ardent curiosity and a
willingness to explore new ideas.
Though you may have a sincere
desire to take on new pursuits,
the Page of Wands represents
only the potential of expression,
untempered and unguided. There
is positivity and spontaneity here, and even whims
can lead to great things. The Page brings good
news and pleasant surprises.

REVERSE
Though you have earnestly longed to pursue
something new, life keeps getting in the way. In
this position, the Page of Wands is an indication
that your potential remains untapped. You feel that
your creative impulses are left to wilt, and you
have not yet acquired the knowledge or skill
necessary to cultivate your passions.
74
 o s
ANIGHT
wan
UPRIGHT
While the Page of Wands
indicates a willingness to pursue
new ideas, the Knight of YVands
is the one to engage in the
pursuit. He has a certain lust for
life and a willingness to try
anything. The Knight is suited
up and ready to make mistakes.
You may have lofty goals and ambitions, but watch
out for overconfidence; you may also be a little
impetuous and impervious to warnings.

REVERSE
In this position, the Knight of YVands likes to be
the center of attention, and he certainly has a talent
for showboating. But behind the extraversion, the
romance, and the show of gallantry, there is not
much else. You might be brave and willing to take
risks, but also unable to see how those risks might

75
 o s
adversely affect the people around you. Try not to
charge forward with little consideration for others.

QUEEN
wan
UPRIGHT
The Queen of Wands is the
picture of determination. She is a
high achiever and revels in new
challenges and new ideas.
Though she is warm and
passionate, she is also decisive
and intense, representing
ambition and vibrancy. She
indicates your willingness to change your views as
needed for the sake of righteousness. You are a
positive influence on the lives of your friends and
colleagues.

REVERSE
Reversed, the Queen can also indicate
selfrighteousness. Though you are passionate and
accomplished, you can take a long time to

76
 o s
coursecorrect when you learn you are in the wrong.
Your goals might not be consistent, and your core
beliefs may be prone to change. The Queen of
Wands is a figure in constant flux, which can make
her brilliant but unreliable. You must check
yourself for moments where you might use your
influence irresponsibly or for petty reasons.

wan
UPRIGHT
The King of Wands thrives
under pressure. He is at the helm
of every new project, and
relishes in the duty and
responsibility of that leadership.
The King suggests taking a goal-
oriented perspective on the path
ahead.
He is a big-picture thinker who carefully
considers the through line between action and
consequence. Follow his lead, and strive to work
for the greatest possible good.

77
 o s
REVERSE
Reversed, the King is rash and domineering.
Though he may be a charismatic leader, he is
prone to arrogance, and consistently leverages his
relationships to achieve personal gains. Beware of
any dubious ethical choices when pursuing your
goals. The King of Wands can be unscrupulous
and dictatorial, even resorting to violence and
deception.

78
80
 UPRIGHT
The Ace of Chalices brings an
opportunity to strengthen
interpersonal connections.
Now is a good time to pursue a new
relationship, smooth out old tensions, and forgive. Love
of all kinds is the center of this card, and it encourages
the expression of positive feelings. Self-love is the
impetus for building a better community, and you are
worth this effort. Be generous and compassionate with
yourself.

REVERSE
In reverse, the Ace of Chalices indicates an imbalance of emotion.
You are either utterly overwhelmed or are deeply repressing your
feelings. The card encourages an examination of unaddressed
feelings in times of emotional tumult.
The Two of Chalices refers to a healthy
and mutually beneficial unity. It is
indicative of earnestness, and bodes well
for partnerships of all kinds, from
romantic relationships to business
partnerships, striking a healthy balance
between the pair and the individuals.

REVERSE
81
In this position, the Two of Chalices implies an
imbalance of emotional investment in the partnership. It
warns of unfair, tense, or temporary unions. Your
partnerships require closer examination and potential
reassessment of your priorities, because someone is
getting much more out of it than they are giving.

of chalices
UPRIGHT
The Three of Chalices signifies a
happy gathering or a strong network of
peers. Friendships and camaraderie are
at their sturdiest and most reliable. The
mutual benefits of the Two of Chalices
are extended to a greater community in
the Three of Chalices.

REVERSE
The bonds within your social circle are made tenuous by
jealousy and insecurity. There is mercenary behavior
among people who once had each other's best interests at
heart. Gossip and lies undo previously sturdy bonds.
Though all your affairs appear to be in
order, there is a vague sense of
82
 dissatisfaction that lingers like a late-
afternoon shadow. You are unable to
appreciate what you have built for
yourself. You wish for more without
taking stock of everything you have.

REVERSE
There is an urgent restlessness and dissatisfaction. You
want to escape and start over. Everything you have built
has turned out not quite right, but you keep missing
opportunities to try again. You may need to take time away
for personal reflection, but be careful not to dwell too long.
Take what you've learned through introspection and try to
apply it practically. Otherwise, all that introspection may
simply be a means of procrastinating.

of clnalices
UPRIGHT
You have gone to great lengths to
pursue that which you love, and too
many things have gone wrong. The
Five of Chalices indicates that your
passions have yielded sharp
disappointment and regret. A once
83
beloved thing has soured. Do you cut and run, or do you
strengthen your resolve to carry on?

REVERSE
Everyone has disappointments in love and friendship,
but you find yourself at a breaking point. You are
emotionally drained and unable to reconcile your
present weariness with the pursuit of those bonds you
treasure. This card is a reminder that you can't change
the past. No matter how painful, you must find a way to
carry the lessons of the past with you, seek forgiveness,
and move forward.

VI

UPRIGHT
You are confronted with a moment of
nostalgia. Memories of past joys strengthen your resolve
and warm your heart. Old connections may be renewed,
and forgotten fondnesses rekindled. You remember the
moments before your ambitions made it difficult to
appreciate what you have.

84
REVERSE
Memories of the past yield sorrow. Long—buried regrets
suddenly resurface to haunt you. You obsess and cling to
the past, unable to live in the present moment. You must
make peace with your relationship with your past. There is
no recapturing the playfulness of youth, but you might still
find ways to access that sense of joy.

Vil

The Seven of Chalices represents wishful

thinking. You fortify yourself with
fanciful daydreams. Though this is a
beautiful place to be, your choices may
not be grounded in reality. You fail to see
the practical limits of your dreams,
making you prone to irresponsible
decisions.

REVERSE
Though your imagination is vibrant and seemingly
limitless, it is misapplied to feeding your deepest

85
anxieties. You are limited by your potential fears and fail
to make brave choices.
of ckalices
UPRIGHT
You have taken practical steps to
change your life. Though your
circumstances are challenging, you are
prepared to meet any incoming
obstacles. You are determined to take
yourself away from a bad situation and
toward the life you want for yourself.

REVERSE
The dewy sheen Of your dreams is lost in the face of
reality. You find yourself making difficult personal choices
and leveraging practical sacrifices over your ideals. Your
dreams look different up close.

86
 place where
proud of your
You are finally
yourself and for
your goals are
[Link]
necessary
through pain
and adversity, you dance.
Though your best—laid plans may not have
materialized exactly as you had hoped, you find
satisfaction in exercising your agency in the endeavor.

REVERSE
Nothing has turned out the way you hoped. Your dreams
seem further out of reach than ever before. Your sacrifices
yield little satisfaction. You must reassess your ideals and
their impact on your emotional and practical well-being.

87
 of ckalices
UPRIGHT
There is finally an overarching sense
of harmony in your life. Though the
journey has been long, you have
materialized your hopes and desires in
ways you may not have expected. You
may not have gotten everything that
you wanted, but you have found love
and fulfillment in the relationships you
have built along the way.

REVERSE
There is something barring the road to complete
happiness. You are close to fulfilling your wishes, but you
have neglected to tie up a few loose ends. You cannot fully
enjoy your achievements because there is lingering regret
and discord. Reappraise your accomplishments and take
stock of where your agency was either honored or
thwarted.

88
 PAGE

The Page of Chalices embodies a childlike

excitement at prospective emotional connections. Decisions are led
by a sense of optimism and naivety. The card indicates wonderment
and appeals to the part of you that indulges in following your
dreams. It signifies a good time to meet someone new, and favors
impulsiveness and letting one's intuition lead.

REVERSE
The reverse represents immaturity and being unable to
properly address emotional problems. A lack of self-love
and self-confidence is evident, and it asks you to examine
moments of petulant selfishness. Have you become prone
to tantrums, coldness, or stubbornness? There is a
hesitation to pursue the things you want because you do
not think you deserve them.

UPRIGHT
The Knight of Chalices is representative
of emotional awareness. You are in touch with your inner
feelings and prone to flights of fancy. Despite the power of
fantasies, the Knight is also a reminder to keep yourself
89
from getting swept away by your ideals of romance.
Abstract notions must be balanced with action or else they
remain frivolous passing fancies.

REVERSE
Someone has lost control of their emotions. The Knight
warns of a lack of self-reflection, and being prone to
moodiness and jealousy. He also refers to something that
was initially very appealing, but later turns out to be a ruse.
The Knight in reverse is a reality check; a veil of wishful
delusion might be lifting, leaving cold disappointment and
a much harsher truth. It is a reminder to watch your moody
tendencies and be practical when you do not get exactly
what you want.
QUEEN

The Queen of Chalices embodies compassion,

emotional stability, and fair judgment. Work toward emotional well-
being instead of abstractly explaining away all your problems.
Sometimes a listening ear and a patient friend is required where
rationality fails to yield resolutions. The Queen also indicates
creativity and imagination, and finding avenues for self-expression.

90
REVERSE
You are feeling disconnected from your emotions. The
Queen in this position encourages examining where
communication might be stifled. There is hesitation to
trust, but you lack a precise source of suspicion. You might
have overlooked someone's attempts to manipulate you,
gaslight you, or guilt you into believing the worst of
yourself, or you may be too dependent on the approval of
others. It is an inopportune time to make promises.

of
UPRIGHT
The King of Chalices represents
patient, compassionate stewardship.
The King is intentional about
addressing strong and unruly emotions
with great sensitivity and care, and
guides you toward emotional maturity
and levelheadedness in trying times,
particularly where a diplomatic and
even-handed response is required. Your
decisions should be predicated on warmth and generosity.

REVERSE
The King in reverse represents emotional abuse and
manipulation. He warns of someone in your life who is
91
selfish, temperamental, and vindictive. This individual may
be leveraging guilt to get what they want, and shifting
blame on others when things go wrong. This otherwise
wellintentioned person may be struggling to maintain a
sense of self, relying heavily on the approval of others,
laying the groundwork for potentially toxic relationships.

92
SWORDS

94
 o swor s

The Ace of Swords indicates

intense focus, clarity, and an
unyielding resolve. The Ace
usually refers to the beginning
of a realization, a
breakthrough moment where
goals that previously were
poorly understood are seen
fresh.
Reasoning, inspiration, and creative ways of
approaching challenges make way for greater
insight.

REVERSE
The reversed Ace indicates an incomplete
understanding of your goals and aspirations.
Perhaps your understanding is too broad, and
you have not yet narrowed your focus. Take
things one step at a time and cover your bases in
achievable increments. Uncertainty may also
prevent you from engaging in a challenging
situation. Judgment is clouded, important pieces
of information might be missing, or you are
overwhelmed by potential pathways with no

95
 o swor s
UPRIGHT
clear sense of direction. You find chaos instead
of clarity.
UPRIGHT
In this position, the card
indicates that a difficult
decision must be made, and
you might be avoiding it.
You are getting in your own
way. Without engaging the
problem, you will be unable
to put your mind at ease, and
the problem will persist.
While difficulty and pain will surely follow,
delaying the decision will yield even more dire
consequences. Diplomacy and compromise are
difficult but necessary.

REVERSE
In reverse, the Two of Swords represents two
choices with comparable consequences. You
might be caught between two competing sides or
find yourself overwhelmed with unwelcome
external input. In this case, you may not need to
make a decision at all. You must examine
96
 o swor s

whether you are a necessary element in this

particular conflict. It may be prudent to walk
away and let others sort things out.

97
 o swor s
UPRIGHT
Swords
The Three of is a
reminder of the inevitability of
pain and its absolute necessity
in personal growth. Pain is a
motivator. You can learn from
your missteps and better
understand how to navigate
your life. On a more
interpersonal level, the Three
Of Swords indicates loss, grief, and the difficult
process of coming to terms with losing something
or someone dear to you. If you are emotionally
exhausted, this is a fine time to find some release.
It is best not to wallow. Tomorrow is another day.

REVERSE
The Three of Swords warns of being confronted
with the aftermath of loss or heartbreak. You may
find yourself stuck in a rut, futilely attempting to
recover from an emotional blow. It is a reminder

98
 o swor s

Swords
to let yourself experience pain and grief. If you
are in the midst of turmoil, you might benefit from
making an effort to keep the peace.
UPRIGHT
The Four of indicates
rest and reprieve. You have
endured much, and you must
take it upon yourself to retreat
and recharge until you are better
able to come back to your life.
This card refers especially to
recovery from trauma and
sudden upheaval. You have suffered a violation
and must take time to regroup.

REVERSE
You have attempted to power through trauma and
adversity, to your detriment. You might yearn for a
moment's rest, but circumstances thwart your
attempts to withdraw and recuperate.

99
 o swor s
UPRIGHT
Swords
You are plagued with a skittish restlessness that defies
your weariness. The Four of Swords
signifies a period of stress, anxiety,
and burnout.
The Five of warns of those
who seek to exploit your lowest
moments. This is the card of
betrayal and malevolent rivalry.
An embittered conflict brings
out everyone's worst and most
desperate impulses. Victories
are achieved through
unscrupulous means. You may compromise your
morals to suit your ends.

REVERSE
Your current conflicts remain unresolved and
continue to fester indefinitely. Nobody wins, yet
you continue to draw out this conflict for the sake
of pride. You cling to the notion of winning out
this contentious cycle, yet you know none of the

100
 o swor s

Swords
sacrifices will be worth it. Old wounds are
reopened, and long—dead resentments are
revived.

101
 o swor s
UPRIGHT
VI

Moving forward often means

leaving something behind. The
Six of Swords indicates the
moment when you take your first
steps toward moving on and
starting over. This decision
requires mental fortitude over
troubled emotional waters. This
card may also indicate far travels
and missing those who cannot go with us. Once you
have addressed this loss, you can fully enjoy and
appreciate your journey. This is a positive sign,
alluding to a moment of personal strength and
agency.

REVERSE
In reverse, the Six of Swords indicates that you are
attempting to move on from past troubles and are

102
 o swor s
UPRIGHT
experiencing challenges. Unaddressed conflicts from the
past keep catching up to you, hindering your progress. It is
a gentle reminder that the future will be brighter. It also
warns of an aversion to change. You may think you have
moved on, but old habits perpetuate old problems.

Vil

The Seven of Swords marks

you as the betrayer. You saw
opportunities and took them by
whatever means you could. You
prioritized getting ahead over
your personal ideals. This card
represents those moments where
you find yourself lying through
your teeth in an effort to avoid
responsibility. And worse, you seem to be getting
away with your dishonesty.

REVERSE

103
 o swor s
UPRIGHT
Someone has seen through your ruse. Though you
think you are getting ahead, you are not as clever as
you believe. You will forget important details, and
your lies will be laid bare. Your efforts to get ahead
will ultimately fall apart through your tactlessness
and your failure to acknowledge
things as they are. You are deep in
denial.
The Eight of Swords reveals
that you are caught. You are
trapped in your bad habits, your
deceptions, and your denials.
You keep trying to explain your
way out Of your emotional
problems without ever touching
the heart of the matter. This vicious cycle is
emboldened by people in your orbit who make you
doubt your feelings.

REVERSE
You cling to your worst habits because you fear
that your personal progress will isolate you from
those who do not want you to change. Even though
104
 o swor s
UPRIGHT
you are aware of the toxic nature of this sort of
relationship, you cannot bring yourself to do what
is best for you. You hold onto the things that hurt
you because you think
belonging is more important
than being free.
The Nine of Swords calls attention
to your deepest fears and your
recurring nightmares. Everything
feels pointless. Even though you have
all but given up, you continue to fret
and worry over everything. This
might be a sign that there is still some
fight left in you, but for the moment
there is little to be done. You are
overwhelmed with a looming sense of regret. You must find
and confront those things that haunt you.

REVERSE
You are anxious and wracked with guilt, but you avoid the
sources of your anxiety. You cannot bring yourself to seek
help, and you continue to suffer alone. Here, the Nine of
Swords warns that you are far too hard on yourself. You
might be getting in your own way, but it's likely more
troubling than that. You are trying to take responsibility and

105
 o swor s
UPRIGHT
do the right thing, but you might also be blaming yourself
for things well beyond your control. It might be prudent to
seek outside counsel. You might be too deep inside your
own head to assess things as well as
you might like.

The Ten of Swords represents a

painful conclusion. This card
indicates a harsh defeat. You
were set up for failure, yet you
continually toiled in futility. Your
most trusted sources of
motivation and encouragement
have failed you, and you cannot
see any way to salvage this loss. All that is left is to
start over. It's time to accept this reality and be
ready to move on.

REVERSE
You are in a bad situation, but your fear of change
is stronger than your willingness to solve the
problems at hand. Instead of doing the difficult
work of confronting your fears, you let it drag on
endlessly. The Ten of Swords encourages you to
106
 o swor s
UPRIGHT
find release from this cycle of guilt and fear of
change. It is time to move on and let go of the
things that do not serve your long-term growth.

107
 o s
PAGE swor
UPRIGHT
The Page of Swords is a clever
and restless individual. With
clear eyes and naive resolve,
the Page dreams of searching
for knowledge and truth, with
an intellectually dexterous
mind and the ability to hold a
tremendous amount of trivia.
You might be eager to seek
information, but you have not yet developed
rigor in your process. Despite your greenness,
you are a quick study.

REVERSE
In the reverse position, the Page of Swords is an
intellectual snob and a gossip. You might claim to
know much, but your sources may not be
trustworthy. Your pride is more important than the
truth, and at the end of the day you would rather
win an argument than gather knowledge. You may
be blunt, petty, and willfully tactless.

108
 o s
t\N lG tl T
swor
UPRIGHT
The Knight of Swords is a
proactive and curious
individual. He is opinionated,
but also a clear and intentional
communicator. Though
inflexible in your arguments
unless provided with new
information, you value the truth
over your pride. You check
your sources and interrogate your findings with
consistency.

REVERSE
In the reverse position, the Knight of Swords is
obsessive and singular in the pursuit of
knowledge. You might be prone to impatience,
seeking knowledge for the sake of knowledge.
There is little application and even less ethical
consideration in your endeavors. You may

109
 o s
irresponsibly believe that knowledge and
information are neutral forces. The Knight does
not share or communicate their knowledge,
preferring to hoard it and lord it over others.
QUEEN swor
UPRIGHT
The Queen of Swords
represents a poised and
intellectually rigorous figure.
She adeptly gathers knowledge
and uses every bit of
information she can gather to
guide her decisions. You are
organized, perceptive, and a
quick thinker. The Queen of
Swords, though tactful, communicates sharply
and succinctly without couching her words with
sentiment. She peels back layer after layer of
niceties and formalities to get to the heart of the
issue. Honesty can be brutal, but there's much to
be said for a quick, clean cut.

REVERSE
110
 o s
You might be unclear about where your biases
are. The Queen warns of a refusal to believe you
can be anything but impartial; your relationships
guide your judgment as much as your intellect. In
an effort to succinctly solve problems, you may
rely on strokes that are entirely too broad. You cut
off your support network in a misguided effort to
come to your own conclusions.
t\ I NG
swor

UPRIGHT
The King of Swords is the
embodiment of intellectual
authority. He exercises logic and
reason, honoring histories,
legality, and tact. This card
indicates diplomacy, and a
certain air of detachment, as he
positions himself as a highly
specialized consultant or
adviser. It may be wise to seek professional
counsel for whatever challenges you may be
facing. The King of Swords operates under very
111
 o s
high ethical standards in his search for
knowledge.

REVERSE
In reverse, the King of Swords warns of an abuse
of power and authority. You might be ruled by
bias, convincing yourself that your unfounded
personal notions are objective facts. Others might
be abusing their relationships with you and you
might feel used, but are unsure why. On a
personal level, this card can indicate a lack of
clarity or insight.

112
COINS

114
 o coins
UPRIGHT
The Ace of Coins is a lucky
card. You may have a lead on a
new opportunity to expand
your source of income. It turns
out that you could do more,
and that your contributions are
more valuable than you realize.
Though you still need to work
hard to see these new avenues
through, it is heartening to realize that there are
still opportunities out there for you.

REVERSE
You are faced with a sudden financial setback
Of some inconvenience. Though it will not
upend your livelihood, it still makes life a little
more difficult than it needs to be. Perhaps you
counted your chickens before they hatched. You
may be feeling a little risk averse, reluctant to
pursue new opportunities.

115
 o coins
UPRIGHT
The Two of Coins indicates
that you are in the midst of
juggling various obligations.
There is very little room for
rest, but you are deftly setting
up a comfortable foundation
for yourself. Though you find
that good time management
and your prioritization skills
are in especially high demand, you manage to
stay afloat. Negotiate your time, energy, and
efforts carefully.

REVERSE
You have taken on too much, and you are
beginning to let certain things fall through the
cracks. You may also find yourself being
pointlessly busy. There may be responsibilities
that could be delegated elsewhere. There is a
sense of being overwhelmed, and you find that
you frequently wish you could be in two places at
once. You lack focus, and your attention,
patience, and energies are spread too thin.

116
 o coins
UPRIGHT
Your collaborative relationships
are in a very good place. The
Three of Coins indicates that
your work environment is
healthy and that you are in
harmony with your colleagues.
Everyone's input and respective
fields of expertise are valued.
This bodes well for the
implementation of fresh projects and the pursuit
of new opportunities. Together, you have the
chance to make your wishes into material reality.

REVERSE
In this position, the Three of Coins suggests that
the quality Of your collaborations is beginning to
suffer. You must take some time to troubleshoot
and figure out where the snags are in your
complex network of projects. Whose input is not
heeded? Whose contributions are overlooked?
Now is a good time to check in with your
teammates and reassess your shared vision.

117
 o coins
UPRIGHT
The Four of Coins indicates
a desire for stability and
control. You have not been as
intentional as you had hoped,
and you feel inclined to scale
back your spending to conserve
your resources. Though you are
in a good place, the primary
motivator for your fiscal
behavior seems to be fear. This suggests miserly
habits; you are neglecting opportunities to invest
in things that will bring you joy. You may be
keeping your best assets locked away from the
world.

REVERSE
Your relationship with money is unstable. The
reversed Four of Coins points to a pattern of
fiscal irresponsibility that you have not fully
examined. You have not yet built a reliable
foundation for yourself, yet you may be putting
your resources into frivolous things that may not
feel altogether satisfying in the long run.

118
 o coins
UPRIGHT
The Five of Coins signifies
difficult times ahead. You may
have suffered a major financial
setback. Your dire
circumstances are compounded
by the accompanying
embarrassment and isolation,
and you feel as though you
must confront your problems
alone. You may find it difficult to face yourself,
and for reasons you do not fully grasp, it is
difficult to seek help.

REVERSE
Money is tight, but you may find that your
difficult times are coming to a close. The
reversed Five of Coins signifies that you have
regained some agency over your circumstances.
Though this does not herald an immediate change
in your life, it does mean a more positive
relationship with money is coming.

119
 o coins
UPRIGHT
VI

The Six of Coins suggests the

sharing of wealth and putting
your money where your mouth
is. Resources are exchanged to
benefit the greater good, and
kindness is rewarded. Money is
bequeathed in a manner that is
motivated by generosity instead
of profit. You are experiencing
a moment wherein wealth is leveraged for
positive ends. This is the card of philanthropy.

REVERSE
In this position, the card warns of empty charity
masquerading as kindness. Your generosity is
motivated by an expectation of gratitude, which
it does not often yield. As a result, you find
yourself retreating into a miserly place. You feel

120
 o coins
UPRIGHT
like your goodwill and generosity have been
wasted. You would like your words to yield
treasures, but everything you say rings like the
hollow croak of a toad.

121
 o coins
Vil

UPRIGHT
You are at a point where
you want to make long-term
investments. You have
mastered your daily grind,
and you have the freedom to
step back and plan where
you might best invest your
resources. The Seven of
Coins encourages you to
look at the bigger picture and spend time
cultivating your resources responsibly.

REVERSE
Though you are currently financially stable,
you are impatient with your progress. You
may be tempted to overspend or invest your
resources a little too hastily. NO matter how
much work you put in, you find yourself a

122
 o coins
UPRIGHT
sleeve short in the end. The reversed Seven
of Coins warns you to take more time to
analyze your prospects and check your
impulses. Do not be pressured into making
hasty deals.
The Eight of Coins indicates
that you should be reaching new milestones in
your professional development. It is about
committing to learning and mastering your
craft. Now might be a good time to seek out
further educational opportunities that make
you more professionally viable. Remember to
invest in yourself.

REVERSE
In this position, the Eight of Coins might mean
you are feeling restless and professionally
stagnated. You have more to offer, and you are
willing to put in the work. Unfortunately, the
right opportunity is not currently aligned with
your desire to move up. The work that you do

123
 o coins
UPRIGHT
to further your development seems tedious and
unsatisfying.
The Nine of Coins
encourages you to take some
time to enjoy your financial
gains. You have worked
hard, and you have room to
seek some enjoyment. It
might be an opportune time
to splurge and treat yourself
to something special. This
card speaks to strong self-worth. You have
appraised yourself highly, and every bit of that
confidence has been hard earned.

REVERSE
You are finding it difficult to imagine how you
can be truly valuable. Your contributions and
skills seem expendable, and your worth always
feels negotiable. You do not give yourself
Feom to rest because you may not believe you
have earned it. Remember that rest is an

124
 o coins
UPRIGHT
important part of work, and you cannot do
your best work when you are constantly on the
verge of burning out.

You have accomplished

much and are satisfied with
the results. The Ten of
Coins speaks to broad
contentment and security.
You are in a position to
share your resources, care
for others, and take on new
projects. You also find
yourself able to take on more responsibility,
and you have room to invest in things like
leisure time and building relationships that
bring you joy and fulfillment. This card
suggests abundance and stability.

REVERSE
You have wasted much of what you have
worked to earn. Your assessment of your

125
 o coins
UPRIGHT
resources is inaccurate, and you are spread too
thin as you attempt to build a sturdy
foundation for yourself and your community.
You may discover that your obligations have
expanded right along with your possessions,
and so your earnings are always tied up and
money is a source Of anxiety.

126
 o
PAGE
coins
UPRIGHT
The
Page of
Coins is
eager to
explore
new
creative
or
professional opportunities.
There is money to be made, and
you are excited to participate in
this environment. This card
signifies t you are
inexperienced, but you show a
great deal of potential. There is
a strong enthusiasm to learn all
the tricks of the trade.

REVERSE

127
Reversed, the Page suggests that you are getting
in your own way. You set unrealistic goals and
neglect to learn the basics of your job. You
might be inexperienced but haughty, refusing to
do any task you deem beneath you. This will
impede your growth and ultimately diminish
your chances at finding success in your chosen
path. Seek guidance and learn from the parts of
your work that seem unglamorous.
fiNIGHT
o coins
UPRIGHT
The Knight of Coins
represents an individual who
has garnered a reputation for
being reliable. You are
meticulous and hardworking,
even though you are not
especially ambitious. You are
good at what you do exactly in
your position, and you do not
seek opportunities to advance. You value routine

128
at the expense of growth, and you may be a little
risk—averse.

REVERSE
The Knight reversed refers to someone who is
willing to cut corners and take the easy way out.
You have occupied your station for a healthy
amount of time and have grown complacent. The
enthusiasm and rigor with which you used to
approach your work has diminished, and the
quality of your work suffers. You have
succumbed to monotony. It might be wise to step
back and either rediscover what made you
passionate about what you do, or find something
more fulfilling.
QUEEN
o coins
UPRIGHT
The Queen of Coins is a
practical and evenhanded
provider, adept at
maintaining and distributing

129
her resources in efficient ways. Like her, you
are an effective leader who is sought for your
fair-minded counsel, and you often take on
daring responsibilities. You are more than
capable of caring for an entire network of
people. The Queen of Coins also points to
someone who has struck a positive worklife
balance.

REVERSE
This signifies a lack of balance between the
professional and personal spheres of your life.
The reversed Queen of Coins is typically
overworked and drained from picking up
everyone else's slack, and this makes it difficult
to be tactful with others. It may be time to step
back and engage in some meaningful self-care
and trust that others are capable of handling
themselves.
coins
UPRIGHT
The King of Coins suggests that
you are an ambitious leader, adept at managing
finances. Each new project comes with a
carefully crafted multipoint plan, and you
130
exercise great self-discipline. The King of Coins
knows luck favors the prepared, and you come
prepared for many possibilities. You can be
trusted to handle resources on a large scale, and
may also be considered a reliable source of
professional and financial advice. You find that
people often seek your feedback and
reassurance.

REVERSE
In this position, the King of Coins suggests a
workaholic with miserly tendencies. Your
financial success has only made you more
guarded in terms of finances, and you are not to
be trusted to help others along. You are
competitive, cutthroat, and business-minded.
Though your finances are robust, you are also
incredibly riskaverse and not inclined to invest in
new ideas.

131
 ABOUT THE APTIST
Trung Le Nguyen is a Philippines-born
Vietnamese American comic book artist
and illustrator. He lives in Minnesota
with his partner and three chickens. He
maintains a love of folklore and fairy
stories.

133