The King of Pentacles

Representing the paternal nature; the King of Pentacles represents the consumption of the soul by wealth. Here the belief is asserted that the limits of our physical world are determined by how much of our spiritual self we draw upon; with the sacrifice of wealth necessary as precondition to the acquisition of wealth – you have to spend money to make money – the burden of loss although offset by the gains does not decrease as those gains are consumed. What is given up is never returned in the form it was given but rather it is transformed forever.

In the upright state the King of Pentacles represents a warning to understand exactly what we ask for, before we ask for it, lest you get everything you want and have it not be at all what you expected.

In the inverted state the King of Pentacles represents fixation and the replacement of concerns about how to gain wealth with concerns about how to prevent its loss. In the inverted state the King of Pentacles is a warning to the miser and those who seek wealth to horde it, that the Universe provides more ways to lose wealth than it does to gain it; your energy will be expended far quicker attempting to safeguard your wealth once acquired than the total sum needed to acquire it in the first place. Unearned wealth is lost with ease, however that which is earned leaves a lasting impact not least of all because the effort expended to acquire it fundamentally changes us in the process.

The Queen of Pentacles - Tarot Card from the Rider-Waite Deck

Representing the maternal nature; the Queen of Pentacles represents the burden of wealth created by obligation. The Queen of Pentacles represents the distribution of wealth and the attempt to mediate a conscience when determining who would benefit most from the wealth we distribute.

In the upright state the Queen of Pentacles represents the recognition that wealth attained but not shared makes those who horde that wealth culpable for the lost potential and deprivation that results from their inaction. The Queen of Pentacles has no desire to horde wealth, but rather focuses on the potential it holds.

In the inverted state the Queen of Pentacles represents the limit of our benevolence and the understanding that not all problems can be solved, not all requests can be met, our judgement must be used to determine who would benefit most, and subsequently the choice we make further burdens us with responsibility for the outcome of our actions and inactions.

The Knight of Pentacles - Tarot Card from the Rider-Waite Deck

Representing discipline; the Knight of Pentacles represents the recognition of progress and achievement, as well as an understanding of the need to pass on our legacy to others. The Knight of Pentacles represents an authority figure who wishes to teach others who desire to achieve what they have done.

In the upright state the Knight of Pentacles represents a prompt to share our wealth with those who seek to further their own, to impart knowledge and wisdom and to relate our experience to help guide them on their journey; a prompt to assume the role of mentor and provide guidance when it is asked of us by others.

In the inverted state the Knight of Pentacles represents what is still unknown to us, the mystery and intrigue of the material realm, and a recognition of the limit of our understanding. The inverted Knight asks us to accept our ignorance so that we may open our minds to the opportunity to learn from others in turn.

The Page of Pentacles - Tarot Card from the Rider-Waite Deck

Representing study; the Page of Pentacles represents reflection upon the wealth we have gained with a particular focus on the journey that wealth has taken from inception to completion. The Page of Pentacles is often a sign or prompt to consider what lessons can be learned from our past triumphs and how those can be applied to our future endeavours.

In the upright state the Page of Pentacles focuses specifically on the wealth itself and this journey it has taken, noting the evolution in form and the change in significance that results from this transformation.

In the inverted state however the Page of Pentacles focuses on ourselves and how the journey to obtain that wealth has changed us, the evolution within us, and the significance of this transformation, whether we succeeded in achieving the goals we set out now becomes irrelevant instead we take toll of the journey and count the cost of our endeavours.

The 10 of Pentacles - Tarot Card from the Rider-Waite Deck

Representing completion; the 10 of Pentacles represents the end of the physical journey with the achievement of manifestation. Here the concept of manifestation represents the formation of an idea, the implementation, cultivation, production, and consumption within the physical realm.

In the upright state the 10 of Pentacles represents a return on investment, or a period of time to consume the fruit of our labour. The emphasis here is not placed on the idea of ending in the sense of termination, but in the sense of a cessation of movement – no further forward momentum is needed for now.

In the inverted state the 10 of Pentacles represents unmet expectations. Our forward momentum has ceased but the outcome is not exactly as we had envisioned. Here the emphasis is placed on making the most of what was achieved rather than seeking to prolong the journey further.

The 9 of Pentacles - Tarot Card from the Rider-Waite Deck

Representing anticipation; the 9 of Pentacles pertains to patience and frustration as two sides of the same coin, the former representing our ability to wait and the latter representing our inability. The focus here is placed on the future with an emphasis placed on preparing for that future.

In the upright state the 9 of Pentacles represents our patience and preparation, in this state it is a sign that we already possess all that we need to confront the challenges or situations that we will face. As long as we remain composed, collected, and approach these situations rationally we will be able to handle them with grace.

In the inverted state the 9 of Pentacles represents our anxiety and frustration with a particular focus placed on the expectation we create for our future reaction. Here the emphasis is placed not on the approaching situation itself but on our feeling of being unprepared and the uncertainty that is stirred within us as a result.

The 8 of Pentacles - Tarot Card from the Rider-Waite Deck

Representing urgency; the 8 of Pentacles represents the nature of humanity to overcome its obstacles only when the impetus is provided. The interconnection of our wealth and that of others is reinforced and the collective nature of economy in the form of a market force is underlined.

In the upright state the 8 of Pentacles prompts us to take action by increasing our focus, putting greater emphasis on the limit of time and what is realistically achievable within the time frames we have committed to. This could be a prompt to reconsider how long we had planned to wait before taking action and to consider what is gained or lost through that sacrifice of time.

In the inverted state the 8 of Pentacles represents a change in our planned time frame that does not originate in our own choice but in the choices of others. Here someone else or something else will move the goalposts and we will be expected to respond.

The 7 of Pentacles - Tarot Card from the Rider-Waite Deck

Representing reinvention; the 7 of Pentacles represents the return of opportunity to transform and renew wealth. There is a particular focus here on turning existing forms of wealth into new forms that are more beneficial, either by exchanging commodities and resources for financial gain, or by putting financial assets to work through further investment and redistribution.

Where the Ace of Pentacles represented renewal with novelty or stagnation as its foundation depending on the orientation, the 7 of Pentacles in contrast represents transformation of existing wealth and the familiarity of well-travelled ground.

In the upright state the 7 of Pentacles portends a change in focus or perspective. This could mean that our goals for our wealth and material journey change and with that change our commitments shift, of it could mean that our goals remain the same but the path we had foreseen will fundamentally change with an entirely new route opening up to us.

In the inverted state the 7 of Pentacles represents frustration and the inability to create movement because of our adherence to ideology and commitment to approaches that have proven to be unsuccessful, weighing us down rather than empowering us. We cannot expect different results by repeating our past failures, until we recognise the barriers that we create within ourselves to our own growth we will not be able to overcome those barriers.

The 6 of Pentacles - Tarot Card from the Rider-Waite Deck

Representing transience and movement; the 6 of Pentacles represents a return to balance, a recognition within those who can, that they have an obligation to those who cannot. The 6 of Pentacles reinforces the connected nature of wealth and the limit of that abundance. You can only take so much before you can take no more, you can’t get blood from a stone. When all sacrifices have been made, those who depend upon the sacrifice of others face destruction and destitution.

Whilst this relationship and inevitable destruction is often focused upon the poor, the risk of destruction does not truly lie with them but with the rich. Poverty poses no threat to those who are already poor; those who horde wealth and plan growth of their wealth on the premise of continued sacrifice will face their downfall when the limit of that sacrifice is met.

In the upright state the 6 of Pentacles represents the movement of wealth and the correction of imbalance. Those who have horded their wealth will experience loss, and those who have gone without will be repaid. This repayment will come by force, as the material realm tends towards balance and equilibrium, those who create imbalance are not above its ire.

In the inverted state the 6 of Pentacles represents the stagnation of wealth as a means to restore balance. Here growth will be disproportionate and favour those with less, punishing those with more.

The 5 of Pentacles - Tarot Card from the Rider-Waite Deck

Representing conflict; the 5 of Pentacles represents poverty and austerity, our dependence on others for charity is emphasised here whether that be reliance upon the income and financial support we receive through payment for work, or the physical shelter and sustenance provided to us by another, ultimately our lack of independence is underlined.

In the upright state the 5 of Pentacles represents the conflict caused by this dependence. How much of a financial burden we pose, or how much obligation we create within others is the focus here, our attitude to this relationship will be amplified. Short term sacrifice for long term gain needs to be the guiding principle here, and to understand this dependence can be changed in time.

In the inverted state the 5 of Pentacles represents the reversal of this relationship, with the emphasis placed on the obligations that others have created within us; this could portend financial commitments made on our behalf by another, increased prices for example or the withdrawal or restriction of credit, or financial loss incurred through no fault of our own, for example damage and theft.

The 4 of Pentacles - Tarot Card from the Rider-Waite Deck

Representing stability; the 4 of Pentacles represents a period of relative calm and reflection within the wealth and material realm. Where the Ace of Pentacles represented the opportunity for new commitments to be made, here the 4 of Pentacles places its focus on the existing commitments we have made and the effort required to maintain these commitments.

In the upright state the 4 of Pentacles represents an opportunity to plan ahead for the future, to make repairs, invest disposable income, relieve austerity, and make the most of an unchanging landscape whilst we have respite.

In the inverted state the 4 of Pentacles represents an opportunity to correct past mistakes, whether they be our own or the mistakes of others, and to revise commitments by reconsidering our obligations. Once again, the moment of respite is emphasised with the opportunity it offers, complacency is shunned here as this respite will not last forever.

The 3 of Pentacles - Tarot Card from the Rider-Waite Deck

Representing connection; the 3 of Pentacles represents the connection between creation and destruction through causality and the awareness of the element of sacrifice being raised. The 3 of Pentacles represents our understanding of the interconnectedness of wealth, in rudimentary terms the adage “You have to spend money to make money” is encapsulated here.

In the upright state the 3 of Pentacles represents our connection to our community, our environment, and the material world around us. The emphasis here is placed on raising our awareness of how much or how little we contribute first to that physical world before we ask of it, or how much disturbance we cause within it. Here the emphasis is to recognise that world is the source of the substance we draw from in order to transform.

In the inverted state the 3 of Pentacles is a warning not to shun the communities that invite us to join them, nor to neglect the environment that attempts to nurture us. Do not bite the hand that feeds you as it were. Here we are warned that our capacity to create wealth of our own is limited by our connection to the material realm, the act of creating wealth for ourselves in reality is the act of taking ownership of the wealth of others. The emphasis here is placed on our charitable nature, and the sacrifices we make considered as investments needed before returns can be paid.

The 2 of Pentacles - Tarot Card from the Rider-Waite Deck

Representing balance; the 2 of Pentacles is associated with the balance between creation and destruction, here in the material realm this is conceptualised as gain and loss of wealth. The 2 of Pentacles relates to the ebb and flow of life.

In the upright state the 2 of Pentacles represents loss and gain equally matched resulting in stasis despite the presence of movement and volatility. Here the 2 of Pentacles acts as a warning not to expect momentum to emerge from the frenetic nature of this transformation. Your foundations may be changing but your overall structure at least for now remains constant.

In the inverted state the 2 of Pentacles represents an imbalance between loss and gain; although often seen as a negative outlook or bad omen, this imbalance can be in our favour or against it, ultimately the context in which this card appears in this state needs to be considered. For a time either our income or our expenditure will be higher than the other but this imbalance will not be maintained indefinitely.

The Ace of Pentacles - Tarot Card from the Rider-Waite Deck

Representing beginnings; the Ace of Pentacles is associated with opportunity, new beginnings and change. It can also represent the arrival of something new that will come under your responsibility.

In the upright state the Ace of Pentacles pertains to novelty, that which has not been seen before or which is entirely new to us. The emphasis here is placed on opportunity and potential, a journey of discovery, a blank canvas, or an acquisition. This card in this orientation is generally favourable, in this state it portends something of benefit.

In the inverted state the Ace of Pentacles as with the other Aces pertains to renewal; here again opportunity and potential frame the material wealth we have already acquired. This could be an opportunity to sell something we have held onto for some time, or an opportunity to transform something we already own into something else, for example you may find a use for a book that you had long abandoned or suddenly have need of clothes you have not worn for some time.

The King of Swords - Tarot Card from the Rider-Waite Deck

Representing the paternal nature; the King of Swords represents the culmination of achievement, confidence and authority combined in one. The King of Swords is a sign that our understanding has reached its limit and that our focus should now shift to other desires and new ideas.

In the upright state the King of Swords is a prompt to let go of the things we have been focusing on and accept that we have done all that we can. Our hard work will not be undone in this act but rather the strength and significance of our achievement will become self-evident.

In the inverted state the King of Swords emphasises our unwillingness to let go and the effect upon us this inability to let go is having. To rest on our laurels and hold onto one achievement alone is a disservice to our experience and dismisses the value of our potential contributions.

The Queen of Swords - Tarot Card from the Rider-Waite Deck

Representing the maternal nature; the Queen of Swords is forward thinking planning for the future with the desire to nurture future generations. The emphasis of the Queen of Swords is that of legacy and heritage.

In the upright state the Queen of Swords represents preparation and planning. She believes that the return of conflict is inevitable, no life can be lived free from conflict but preparation can be made to help resolve disputes before they reach that level. The Queen prompts us to develop our diplomacy, to remember our past, and to pursue harmony, but to ultimately accept that not every conflict can be avoided, we can only control our motivations we cannot control those of our adversaries.

In the inverted state the Queen of Swords represents the risk posed by a lack of forethought; to leap without looking would return us to the 2 of Swords and the idea of blind faith. To build upon the evolution and iteration achieved thus far we must therefore remember what has been learned, not discard it.

The Knight of Swords - Tarot Card from the Rider-Waite Deck

Representing discipline; the Knight of Swords is associated with the application of theory through practice, the Knight of Swords represents independent thought. The Knight acts based on their intuition and their own instincts. Their actions are guided by discipline and their own authority empowered by the will of the cause they serve.

In the upright state the Knight of Swords is a sign that what you have learned must be practised; you will find yourself retreading familiar ground with the warning not to repeat past mistakes. There is a warning here that new conflicts could arise if mistakes are made, remember to maintain discipline in your approach.

In the inverted state the Knight of Swords represents the reckless nature and desire to discount past experience as an anomaly and to repeat past mistakes believing they will lead to a different outcome.

The Page of Swords - Tarot Card from the Rider-Waite Deck

Representing study; the Page of Swords represents a rebirth and renewal, a period of reconstruction after conflict comes to an absolute end. Renewed optimism leads to opportunity and growth that sees retrospection given respect and reverence.

In the upright state the Page of Swords represents the will to move beyond ego, and the desire to understand met with the opportunity to gain insight and revelation. A renewal of hope is portended.

In the inverted state the Page of Swords represents the pursuit of understanding without hope, an endeavour we may not believe will succeed but is pursued nonetheless for the sake of understanding alone.

The 10 of Swords - Tarot Card from the Rider-Waite Deck

Representing completion; the 10 of Swords is further associated with the consequence of our action and the closure gained from acceptance. In accepting the things, we cannot change we are able to bring an end to the thoughts that surround them giving us the opportunity to move beyond them. The 10 of Swords here therefore represents the absolute completion of conflict.

Where the 9 of Swords represented the paralysing force of negative thought, the 10 of Swords can be seen as forced acceptance, the belief that things cannot get any worse not because we have faith in that belief but simply the product of the inability to see how they could get any worse. In other words, the point at which our despair becomes so deep that literally every possible outcome now appears positive in contrast, no deeper state of negativity exists, or to be quite pointed, absolute rock bottom has been reached.

In the upright state the 10 of Swords asks us to reflect and consider the amount of time we spend thinking about things we cannot change and to determine whether this devotion of energy could be better spent elsewhere and to question whether the devotion of time and energy to those thought processes had any impact at all at lessening or preventing those undesirable outcomes.

In the inverted state the 10 of Swords asks us to consider whether we have accepted the significance of our past and acknowledged the impact it has had; where the upright state reflects on how much time we have spent, the emphasis here is on how little time we have spent trying to compensate and mitigate that negativity or whether we spent our time worrying about the things we could not change without acting, convinced all actions were fruitless endeavours.

The 9 of Swords - Tarot Card from the Rider-Waite Deck

Representing anticipation; the 9 of Swords represents anxiety and depression, the anticipation of thought amplifies the significance of thought beyond its true magnitude. Worry amplifies worry, despair deepens despair.

In the upright state the 9 of Swords represents our fixation on past events and our obsession with entertaining negative thoughts. In the upright state we relive our trauma and carry it with us allowing it to dominate our thoughts and influence our actions.

In the inverted state the 9 of Swords represents our affinity to external influences that impact us negatively. We feed our anxiety and despair with negativity. In the inverted state the 9 of Swords warns us of the impact of this focus and calls upon us to shift our perspective to align with something that has a positive influence.

The 8 of Swords - Tarot Card from the Rider-Waite Deck

Representing urgency; the 8 of Swords represents the loss of peace and tranquillity, replaced with disturbance once more but with much greater urgency. The 8 of Swords is a sign of trial and tribulation and the need for strength of spirit to endure the return of conflict, with a particular emphasis on course correction where our forward path has not led where we intended it to lead.

In the upright state the 8 of Swords emphasises the need for diplomacy, the impetus to communicate clearly is amplified; the death of our identity as a means to achieve stability as portended by the 4 of Swords makes a return two-fold with the permanent closure of conflict predicted; in the upright state this closure is likely to be positive.

In the inverted state the 8 of Swords warns that the return of conflict is likely to result in defeat which portends to a breakdown of communication and the return of conflict this time beyond resolution, instead an existential threat is posed where the victor will remain, and the defeated element will be removed entirely.

The 7 of Swords - Tarot Card from the Rider-Waite Deck

Representing reinvention; the 7 of Swords is associated with the potential for renewal and redevelopment. The potential for growth is emphasised here and the path forward is filled with hope and optimism.

In the upright state the 7 of Swords represents counsel and prompts us to embrace the concept of reconciliation and focus on the potential to build something new that goes beyond what existed before. Where the 6 of Swords incorporated reconciliation as the outcome of conflict resolution and closure, the 7 of Swords focuses particularly on ambition and aspiration for the future, and the implementation of ideas that can bring us closer to that future.

In the inverted state the 7 of Swords is a warning that old conflicts could be renewed once more and a return to disturbance may be approaching. Where the 6 of Swords warned of stagnation as the consequence of our failure to gain closure, here the emphasis is placed on the potential of further hurt from wounds that remain open.

The 6 of Swords - Tarot Card from the Rider-Waite Deck

Representing transience and movement; the 6 of Swords is associated with endurance and consequence. In the wake of conflict reality persists, life goes on and the impact and legacy of that conflict endures despite the cessation. Long after the conflict itself is forgotten to history the impact will still be felt even if the significance and the origin is not understood by those who endure.

In the upright state the 6 of Swords represents our need to accept and move beyond conflict. To accept the past as written, something we cannot change, but to embrace the present as an opportunity to shape the future and decide upon the direction of travel both in how we view our past and how we let it shape our future. We may not be able to change what has happened but we can choose how we respond to the past, and the mindset we wish to adopt going forward. Holding onto past conflicts perpetuate their negative influences, whilst drawing a line under them gives us the opportunity to reach new destinations.

In the inverted state the 6 of Swords explicitly represents this loss of potential when we hold on to conflict, whilst no longer engaging in that conflict it still governs our thoughts and informs our actions and ultimately controls our lives. The inverted 6 of Swords therefore emphasises the need to seek closure in order to overcome our inability to let go and to move forward. Where the upright state looks forward and emphasises optimism, the inverted state looks backward emphasises our need for closure.

The 5 of Swords - Tarot Card from the Rider-Waite Deck

Representing conflict; the 5 of Swords relates to the concepts of arrogance and condescension. Tolerance of different beliefs and thought processes deliver harmony and peace, intolerance inflames conflict and leads to disruption and disturbance.

In the upright state the 5 of Swords asks us to be mindful of perspective and to regard the truth that no-one believes themselves to be the villain and embraces this identity in conflict beyond depictions for entertainment value. In all other conflicts both sides believe themselves to be just and true; when attempting to resolve conflict be mindful that you are the protagonist in your own story, but you are the antagonist in that of your opponent.

In the inverted state the 5 of Swords emphasises the futility of war and the assertion that conflict never leads to victory but to mutual loss. This assertion prompts us to consider what we are willing to lose for the sake of our righteousness and whether that sacrifice is one we are willing to make.

The 4 of Swords - Tarot Card from the Rider-Waite Deck

Representing stability; the 4 of Swords is associated with a moment of transition from an unstable counterproductive mindset to the emergence of productivity and optimism. Where this relates to positive thought this represents the pragmatic mind prevailing, a practical focus and direction emerges. Where this relates to negative thoughts this portends the end of our spiral downward, the deepest point in our despair is reached, from here the only direction of travel is upward, whilst in the absence of transience we will remain at this nadir.

In the upright state the 4 of Swords promises stability if we embrace this new way of thinking revealed to us through introspection and understanding of the self. By letting go of the identity of failure and associating ourselves with the identity of success we create the foundation needed to build upon, we create solid ground upon which to stand.

In the inverted state the 4 of Swords represents the end of the thought process and the death of idea. The triple force of self- doubt wins out in the end. This portends the release or resignation of an idea as fantasy, not just the end of our attempts to achieve but also the acceptance that we never will.

The 3 of Swords - Tarot Card from the Rider-Waite Deck

Representing connection; the 3 of Swords is associated with our attempts to look inward in the pursuit of understanding. This aligns most closely with the idea of self-criticism, through which the 3 of Swords represents the risk posed to us by doubt and insecurity or unchecked anxiety.

In the upright state the 3 of Swords is a warning that our own lack of ambition, lack of faith in our ability, and our own insecurity collectively serve as the barriers that hold us in place. If we do not overcome our self-doubt, we will never realise our potential. Imposter Syndrome is the belief that others know more than they actually know, and the act of discrediting what we know diminishing its significance resulting in the belief that we do not belong where others do. The 3 of Swords represents our internal state disturbed by this feeling.

In the inverted state the 3 of Swords represents this disconnection between our introspection and self-criticism. The difference between criticism and critique is such that the former, criticism, destroys with no other intention, the latter, critique, deconstructs in an attempt to rebuild with greater strength, an act we associate mostly with the idea of a mentor or external source of validation that attempts to mould our thoughts.

The 2 of Swords - Tarot Card from the Rider-Waite Deck

Representing balance; the 2 of Swords takes the idea of balance between knowledge and experience and attempts to implement balance through blindness. The 2 of Swords therefore represents trial and error, our attempt to practice and learn and acquire new knowledge and experience in the absence of prior knowledge or prior experience.

In the upright state the 2 of Swords represents the need to act, no matter what we want to achieve we need to put theory into practice before anything of substance can be created. Without action we cannot gain experience. Where this focus is on positive thoughts and desires, the prompt is to take action no matter how significant that action may seem, you must take at least one step to bring you closer to your desire. Where this focus is on negative desires or fears, the prompt again further underlines the warning not to dismiss negative influences and remain complacent, you must confront them as their power and influence is already growing.

In the inverted state the 2 of Swords represents an imbalance between knowledge and experience, it could portend to a fixation on one element without attention being paid to the other – acting without understanding, or understanding but never putting into practice. Where this relates to our fears and anxieties the inverted 2 of Swords is a warning not to forget context, not to focus on your fear without framing it in the context that it originates.

The Ace of Swords - Tarot Card from the Rider-Waite Deck

Representing beginnings; the Ace of Swords is associated with the seed of thought, an idea or a concept emerging and taking form. Our awareness is raised, and our conscious effort commences. It is difficult to prevent undesirable thoughts from taking root, and unfortunately these thoughts spread like weeds in a garden, once rooted a conscious effort is needed to mitigate their influence.

In the upright state the Ace of Swords calls upon us to make this conscious effort, this requires forethought and planning. This is the foundation stage where we should consider our ideas and give them as much detail to it as we can. It can be hard to consider confronting negative thoughts in particular as a good idea, you may prefer to repress those ideas but doing so will not remove them from your unconscious mind. Repression is akin to cutting the weed above the ground, the roots remain unseen. It is only through exploration of thought that you can remove uncertainty, and understand just how deep those roots go.

In the inverted state the Ace of Swords warns against stagnation and complacency, to entertain ideas without investing effort into them to give them form will otherwise lead to fleeting thoughts that lead nowhere, threats will go unnoticed and potential will go wasted.

The King of Cups - Tarot Card from the Rider-Waite Deck

Representing the paternal nature; the King of Cups finds balance in obligation and discipline. Our love for others and devotion to them, and our self-love and devotion to the self, are kept in equilibrium here. The King of Cups portends stability and authority over the domain of emotions and feelings.

In the upright state the King of Cups promises clarity and resolution with a particular focus on our future role as an authority on these matters to whom others will turn for advice and counsel. The King finds balance between wisdom learned and the dispensation of that wisdom. The King knows when to speak and when to reserve judgement, recognising in others the difference between what they want and what they need.

In the inverted state the King of Cups represents a warning not to intervene when called; others will often seek counsel not out of the desire for clarity but out of the desire to delegate responsibility for their actions, seeking confirmation of their intent so that any repercussion can be attributed to that confirmation not to their decision, or to blame failure on your disapproval and lack of belief within them where you denied their intentions. Be careful of the wisdom you dispense and recognise when to allow others to make their own mistakes.

The Queen of Cups - Tarot Card from the Rider-Waite Deck

Representing the maternal nature; the Queen of Cups represents self-love and devotion. Our life experience gained, our knowledge practiced, our wisdom spread; the Queen of Cups represents the connection to the self, and the devotion to nurturing our spirit so that we may tend to others.

In the upright state the Queen of Cups emphasises the need to continue to invest in our own lives; whilst we may love and be loved by others, and whilst we may cultivate fruitful relationships with others, we cannot nurture without tending to our own nature first.

In the inverted state the Queen of Cups represents an imbalance in this relationship, an undue or unearned obligation to others which has left us in the debt of others’ expectations that we cannot fulfil for we have not taken the time to nurture the self.

The Knight of Cups - Tarot Card from the Rider-Waite Deck

Representing discipline; the Knight of Cups represents the application of knowledge. What we have learned from reflecting upon ourselves and our past relationships should inform our sense of self and shape the future path we take. The Knight of Cups calls upon us to apply what we know with commitment and devotion.

In the upright state the Knight of Cups represents opportunity for further development, presenting us with the chance to return to the Ace of Cups in the pursuit of new relationships, or to remain in solitude and contemplation.

In the inverted state the Knight of Cups represents control and rigidity defined by an external force, our sense of direction is restricted and the paths forward that we can take are limited. In the inverted state the Knight of Cups is a call to consider whether movement is the best option or whether we should put greater emphasis on our emotional independence.

The Page of Cups - Tarot Card from the Rider-Waite Deck

Representing study; the Page of Cups is associated with our reflection and admiration of the emotional connections we form with others. The Page of Cups is a sign that something can be learned from every experience and a prompt to regard our past relationships to determine how they came to be and what we can learn about them and ourselves in the process of understanding.

In the upright state the Page of Cups calls upon us to look back not in anger, but to consider all relationships we have had as serving a purpose; even those which may have ended in conflict can teach us something about ourselves or about others, or how we interact with others.

In the inverted state the Page of Cups represents the missing element; when we regard our past relationships in the pursuit of learning we should ask what was missing. In an effort to understand why a relationship worked or did not, it may not be that we find the answer in what happened, but rather in what did not.

The 10 of Cups - Tarot Card from the Rider-Waite Deck

Representing completion; the 10 of Cups is associated with the culmination of our relationship with quiet comfort and security; the point of silence has been reached where you can sit in silence in one another’s company without a feeling of awkwardness. The 10 of Cups portends to faith and trust being cemented in our relationship bringing us to an almost dogmatic point of renewed clarity and assurance.

In the upright state the 10 of Cups represents a fulfilling relationship that delivers upon what was promised and holds potential for so much more. The 10 of Cups represents the endurance of this relationship beyond test.

In the inverted state the 10 of Cups represents a relationship that reaches a point of acceptance, its form may not be what was anticipated but nevertheless its shortcomings are accepted by those involved. Our focus here becomes whether this is enough or if our time should once again be drawn to a close.

The 9 of Cups - Tarot Card from the Rider-Waite Deck

Representing anticipation; the 9 of Cups portends a period of calm once more with little or no movement. This period if it endures within a relationship could represent a life lived together, whilst without a relationship it can represent the anticipation of new opportunities to begin again, either with the same relationship or with another anew.

In the upright state the 9 of Cups represents a period without power or influence; this period will be marked by a relationship that you have devoted all that you can to ensure it succeeds with no action left but to bear witness and find out if it was enough.

In the inverted state the 9 of Cups represents dread, an expectation of negativity, perhaps the anticipation of the relationship coming to an end, or anxiety, or insecurity in the strength of the relationship leading to our anticipation of future conflict, i.e., the calm before the storm.

The 8 of Cups - Tarot Card from the Rider-Waite Deck

Representing urgency; the 8 of Cups portends risk and the element of chance. Unforeseen change is the most likely outcome of this card’s appearance with a particular focus on the rapidity with which we will need to respond to this change.

In the upright state the 8 of Cups sees the opportunity for change portended by the 7 of Cups now become a reality and with it our immediate challenge becomes adapting to this newfound landscape. The 8 of Cups is the card most often associated with a parting of ways and the end of a relationship, not as the result of conflict but as a result of departure in pursuit of disparate priorities and irreconcilable differences, this is the moment where relationships can either be made or broken; for a relationship to survive this divergence concession must be made and desires sacrificed this may mean committing to pursuing desires that are not our own.

In the inverted state the 8 of Cups represents our denial and continued desire to hold onto the relationship for what it was, rather than what it has become. This disparity will ultimately put distance between us emotionally and physically from the relationship as our expectations and reality become increasingly divergent.

The 7 of Cups - Tarot Card from the Rider-Waite Deck

Representing reinvention; the 7 of Cups represents the possibility of forward movement and the myriad of directions that we could take. This card as it pertains to relationships represents the unity, agreement, and act of living together, not in the sense of cohabitation in the literal sense but rather in terms of living your life and sharing that experience with another. Where this direction was depicted within the 6 of Cups as the result of conflict, ultimately influenced by it, the 7 of Cups in turn represents direction with clarity. The choices we now make are no longer shaped by conflict and its resolution but by desire and aspiration.

In the upright state the 7 of Cups represents the opportunity to share moments of happiness, joy, and prosperity. The element of reinvention here portends to the changing nature of our relationships, the growth and reinforcement we attain through shared experiences. These experiences may be transformative and could lead our relationship to enter into new territories we had not considered. Flexibility is essential here in order to embrace the pace of change that will follow.

In the inverted state the 7 of Cups represents complacency and the comfort we find in our relationship descending to a point where we take our relationship for granted. The inverted 7 of Cups therefore stands as a warning not to make assumptions but to renew your efforts to maintain the relationship as you did when it was first formed.

The 6 of Cups - Tarot Card from the Rider-Waite Deck

Representing transience and movement; the 6 of Cups represents an alternative outcome, either arrived from the 4 of Cups preceding, or as the result of the conflict in the 5 of Cups; in both cases the end result is the same whichever path led us here. The 6 of Cups represents the transformation of the forward progress of our relationship.

In the upright state the 6 of Cups represents renewed potential, new opportunities and growth in our relationship. Our connection deepens and a new level of comfort and security is achieved.

In the inverted state the 6 of Cups represents sacrifices made to maintain our relationship, compromise and concessions are to be made. Further reinforcing our commitment to the relationship and our determination for it to succeed.

The 5 of Cups - Tarot Card from the Rider-Waite Deck

Representing conflict; the 5 of Cups is associated with the possible result of our reflection, where our relationships have broken down, perhaps beyond repair. In the future position within Tarot spreads this can be a sign of conflict to come in our relationships, it does not necessarily mean that conflict will end in breakdown but rather that the illusion of harmony is to be shattered and the conflict laid bare, this will transform the relationship reshaping it into something new that we must then consider; relationships can be strengthened or they can fall apart in this period of tumult.

In the upright state the 5 of Cups represents difference of opinions, conflicting priorities, differing beliefs, and an inability to resolve disputes using old logic and reason. The 5 of Cups portends change and disruption, it is up to us how we navigate that period of turmoil.

In the inverted state the 5 of Cups once again represents stagnation, what might not cause conflict outright may otherwise cause movement and progress in the relationship to grind to a halt. This can be interpreted as different visions for the future with no way to resolve those into one common shared vision, influences that pull in opposing directions resulting in a complete lack of movement.

In the Rider-Waite deck, a lone figure shrouded in a black robe stands looking down at 3 cups which have been spilled with 2 more which stand resolute in his wake. This depiction represents the destructive element of conflict, the connection formed by the 3 of Cups has literally been lost, and the surviving potential to reconstruct and rebuild mirrors the 2 of Cups. The 5 of Cups ultimately portends to a crossroads where a decision will have to be made, reflecting on the 4 of Cups which emphasised preparation, the 5 of Cups represents ultimatum, what we may not have acted upon as a result of our contemplation we may now be forced to do so.

In self-reflection the 5 of Cups serves as a prompt to consider the negative elements that you may have failed to remove and revaluate your methods to mitigate those negative influences. As with creativity, once again, positive influences here do not need to be addressed - problems need to be solved, solutions do not.

This conflict can either be internal or external in nature; where the conflict arises from an internal struggle it is often the case that our shyness, social anxiety, and apprehension are the root of our inability to connect, or our inability to resolve differences between our viewpoint and that of the focus of our connection. When engaging with others, most people are not great at small talk; those that appear well versed are often relying on a greater attention to detail, and retaining past experiences, with a focus on common ground and shared interests. This can be recognised in others by patterns of conversation, always starting conversations from a specific topic or past event for instance.

You can create the potential for conversation by being more open and expressive about the things you like and find interesting. Overcoming your shyness or the reluctance to share motivated by past negative experiences can be difficult but the emphasis here should be on recognising that past experiences are not always reliable as templates to frame our expectations of future interactions. You are not the same person that you were 10 years ago, and neither are the people you attempt to interact with; relying on experiences from that time to shape expectations of the reactions of others is counterproductive.

Ask yourself “What is holding me back?” and “How can I make myself more approachable?” consider if particular past experiences are determining the answers to these questions. When this relates specifically to resolving conflict between our emotions and our feelings, the question instead turns to whether or not you are recognising your own negative emotions and whether or not you are expressing those. Ask yourself “Have I showed them how I am feeling?” strong relationships are built on effective communication, being able to express your feelings both positive and negative is important to be able to resolve conflict. You can’t expect others to be able to read your mind or to read your emotions with accuracy, you need to assume that others know primarily what you choose to tell them, and let their actions shape your understanding of their awareness beyond what you communicate. Everyone has different past experiences and others may be surprised by the experiences that you have had; if you choose not to share these experiences then do not create expectations of others to react as if they were already aware of them.

The 4 of Cups

Representing stability, the 4 of Cups is associated with a stillness and cessation of movement. This is the point in the relationship where the honeymoon period has ended and the reality of the relationship is manifest. The 4 of Cups emphasises reflection and a moment of respite in solitude.

In the upright state the 4 of Cups calls upon us to look at our relationship with clarity, to see the connection we have formed and to see the relationship for what it is, not what we dreamt it to be. In facing this reality, we will find the answer whether we wish to pursue the relationship further or not. It is easy to fall in love with the idea of someone, much harder to recognise when the reality does not align to that vision and sobering to accept the divergence.

In the inverted state the 4 of Cups represents a lack of solitude, which portends a relationship that has become too demanding. Stability in our relationships depends upon our ability to exist independently as well as collectively. This lack of independence is a sign of co-dependence which often portends conflict, and eventual breakdown when one party is unable to fulfil the needs of the other.

The 3 of Cups - Tarot Card from the Rider-Waite Deck

Representing connection; the 3 of Cups is associated with the reinforcement of our relationship with bindings and obligations. Hope and optimism are often associated with this card in particular with an emphasis on celebration and potential.

In the upright state the 3 of Cups represents a willingness to embark on a great journey, an openness and comfort, or sense of fulfilment. This card essentially represents the honeymoon period of any relationship, where connection flows, and harmony is nurtured, the relationship grows during this period and the connection deepens. The 3 of Cups usually portends a happy period in your life.

In the inverted state the 3 of Cups represents a warning not to close down or withhold emotions out of fear. The 3 of Cups emphasises hope, and there is no hope in fear. In the inverted state it is a prompt to focus on the opportunities to grow the relationship and to reflect on the obstructions you are creating to that growth.

The 2 of Cups - Tarot Card from the Rider-Waite Deck

Representing balance; the 2 of Cups is associated with the foundation of a relationship forming, this will be built upon over time. This can also be interpreted as an act of commitment, either in the literal sense representing a marriage or union, or in the metaphorical sense interpreted as a promise or engagement.

In the upright state the 2 of Cups represents a relationship progressing to the next level, what was opportunity in the Ace of Cups becomes reality with the 2 of Cups. The Ace for example could represent a date with a new love interest, and the 2 of Cups would represent a relationship emerging from the connection that was formed.

In the inverted state the 2 of Cups can represent the frustration that a path to progress is not forthcoming, this could be a sign that the relationship will not go further, or it could be a sign that more effort is needed to harvest the potential the relationship holds, for example the desire for a relationship with a new love interest might go unfulfilled.

The Ace of Cups - Tarot Card from the Rider-Waite Deck

Representing beginnings; the Ace of Cups is associated with the formation of new relationships and connections, these can be entirely novel or they can be existing relationships that had long been dormant, extant, or thought of as extinguished entirely.

In the upright state the Ace of Cups portends a new meeting of hearts, a new emotional connection to be formed. This new connection will have opportunities for growth but also bring with it a transformation and a change of outlook. The relationships this card portends to are not fleeting, they will endure for some time, perhaps a lifetime or perhaps only for a season, in any case they will endure for longer than one meeting, they represent someone or something that is going to be involved with our life going forward.

In the inverted state the Ace of Cups portends the renewal of a long dormant relationship, or the slate of an existing relationship being wiped clean and both sides agreeing to start over this could be the result of conflict resolution, or revelations that have fundamentally changed the nature of your relationship necessitating a return to square one.

The King of Wands - Tarot Card from the Rider-Waite Deck

Representing the paternal nature; the King of Wands represents the finality of creation with the embodiment of the burden of service and the responsibility of governance. The King of Wands represents our ownership of our creative output and the obligation we create within ourselves when releasing this creativity into the world. We become King of the domain we created and serve as the authority for those who enter into it.

In the upright state the King of Wands represents the sacrifice of self-interest and in many ways the death of the author; we are called upon to recognise which elements of our creation still fall within our domain, and release those that fall beyond it. Knowing what we can control and influence is the focus here.

In the inverted state the King of Wands represents our attempt to govern that which cannot be governed. The King of Wands represents the extension of our authority beyond our domain and the futility or potential repercussions of that action. The focus here is not to overreach and to rein back our ambitions; an inverted King of Wands is often a sign of our inability to recognise the death of the author, dismissing the life of its own that our creation has taken on, fuelled by the arrogant desire to remain in complete control, refusing to let go.

The Queen of Wands - Tarot Card from the Rider-Waite Deck

Representing the maternal nature; the Queen of Wands represents our instinct to nurture others and protect them. Where the Knight of Wands represents the position of authority gained through wisdom that has been attained, the Queen of Wands represents a position of authority gained from obligation and devotion. A Squire, or Page in medieval times served a Knight by choice in recognition of their status, a child however is bound to its mother by birth, beyond choice this connection can never be broken.

In the upright state the Queen of Wands represents our attention turning away from what we have created, instead focusing on the act of bestowing this creativity on others. The Queen is outward looking, forward thinking, and proactive in her nature.

In the inverted state the Queen of Wands represents our attention turned inward, reflecting upon our strengths and weaknesses in an attempt to recognise the limitations of our power and influence. Knowing what we are capable of allows us to have the greatest impact that we can.

The Knight of Wands - Tarot Card from the Rider-Waite Deck

Representing discipline; the Knight of Wands represents the application of knowledge, and the combination of knowledge and experience which together produce wisdom. The Knight of Wands emphasises iteration and evolution, and the effort to guide others who would seek to follow in their footsteps.

In the upright state the Knight of Wands represents the embodiment of wisdom and the utility of our creative output. Skill, development, and training, are the focus for the Knight of Wands and serve as our prompt not to abandon our creative achievements upon completion, but to continue to use them and find utility within them. If ever there was a card to represent the call to recycle past creations, it would be the Knight of Wands.

In the inverted state the Knight of Wands represents the shortcomings of what we have created, the awareness of limitation in application. Whilst the creative process is objectively complete, the evolution of the creative output is not. What we have created can serve as the foundation of future creative endeavours that serve to iterate over our designs.

In the Rider-Waite deck the Knight of Wands rides on a horse wearing a yellow robe adorned with reptilian creatures; the symbolism of these creatures reflects the Reptilian Brain which is said to be driven by repetition and ritual, spurred on by instinct and impulse with emotional desires and their influence minimised. The reptiles depicted on their robes attempt to eat their own tails, an act which if achieved would create an Ouroboros, a symbol of reiteration and recursion, representing the evolution of the creative process.

Finally, three pyramids can be seen in the distance behind them representing the material essence or legacy of the creative process; our creative output will often persist and the utility therein may be found and adopted by generations to come.

In self-reflection the Knight of Wands serves as a prompt to consider the sources of wisdom and knowledge at your disposal and the example they set for you to follow. This is an opportunity to look to those who have already achieved what you seek and reflect on how they did it and identify the routine and mannerisms needed to do the same for yourself.

At this point you have gained your own experience, no longer the amateur, you stand aside those of achievement, treat them as equals and exchange your ideas. Recognise the strengths you have identified and the weaknesses you that have held you back or constrained your vision. Ask yourself “What do I need to work on?” and “What did they do differently?” when comparing your outcome to others, identify what you can learn from their experience to combine with your own.

The Page of Wands

Representing study; the Page of Wands represents our attempts to research, reflect, and understand what has been achieved, what can be learned, and how we can plan for the future.

In the upright state the Page of Wands asks us to look back objectively at what we have created and reflect on the process as a whole, to consider what can be learned. We are asked to consider if we were to undertake such an endeavour again what would we do differently and what would we do the same.

In the inverted state the focus shifts from our creative process to the creative output itself. Instead of examining the means of production we examine the product. We are asked to be objective once more and consider what we have produced and whether it has merit or value, what flaws does it contain and what perfections.

The 10 of Wands - Tarot Card from the Rider-Waite Deck

Representing completion; the 10 of Wands represents the reaping of reward. Our efforts are complete, the final element has been acquired, and our creative endeavour yields the rewards we sought. The number 10 represents a return to parity, and the restoration of stability, calmness, and clarity of mind.

In the upright state the 10 of Wands prompts us to take the opportunity to enjoy the fruits of our labour. The path is complete, the investment returned, and our enjoyment of the moment is our focus.

In the inverted state the 10 of Wands represents disappointment and criticism, and our inability to recognise when to stop. Our job is complete yet we may not feel this to be the case, we may still feel there is more we could do and more we could achieve particularly if we fail to recognise the original vision, we set out to realise because it does not look exactly as we had imagined; the 10 of Wands in the inverted state asks us to consider the inability to resolve these lingering elements as new journeys, not as part of this endeavour. Draw a line under what has been achieved, and if your vision has expanded then consider your new perspective as a separate journey for which the present serves as inspiration.

The 9 of Wands - Tarot Card from the Rider-Waite Deck

Representing anticipation; with the investment already made the 9 of Wands represents our anticipation of fulfilment and reward for the efforts we have made. Parity is disturbed with this odd numbered card and balance is sought, the arrival of a new element to restore parity is the focus here.

In the upright state the 9 of Wands represents vigilance and the counsel to remain observant; although we may perceive that the hard work has already been done and that our path should be simple going forward, we are advised to maintain our work ethic not to rest on our laurels until we see our efforts through to completion.

In the inverted state the 9 of Wands represents patience and the need to maintain composure. Whilst we wait for the element of completion, we must maintain what we have created so far. Where the upright state emphasises the need to continue seeking opportunity to move forward, our focus in the inverted state is to defend against elements that could derail or undermine the progress made so far, this is not an act of stagnation as it is not an idle effort, but rather one that will require a lot of energy to maintain what has been achieved. For example, when we reach our fitness goals, to abandon the routine of exercise will erode the gains we have made, maintenance is essential to preserve what we have achieved, even if we make no effort to go beyond that achievement.

The 8 of Wands - Tarot Card from the Rider-Waite Deck

Representing urgency; the 8 of Wands is a card that prompts us once again to return to momentum and forward motion. The restoration of parity brings forth a renewal of effort in our approach. Where the 7 of Wands represents our moment of respite and reflection, the 8 of Wands is our prompt not to lose ourselves in nostalgia and the narcissism found in the act of admiration of our past endeavours.

In the upright state the 8 of Wands is a sign to move on, you already possess all that you need within yourself to achieve your goal, or all that can be achieved at this point, maintaining momentum is essential as the only true failure is the failure to try. Even if you doubt your abilities, the act of creation in itself will feed creativity in turn, just as you rise from slumber and stupor, your consciousness elevates and your awareness grows the more effort you put into creating movement.

In the inverted state the 8 of Wands represents sudden change; where the upright state focuses on the internal state and how it relates to the wider world, the inverted state focuses on the wider world as an external factor and how it influences our internal state. This sudden change will impact our creative process and we will need to move beyond it in order to maintain momentum.

The 7 of Wands - Tarot Card from the Rider-Waite Deck

Representing reinvention; the 7 of Wands represents our need to adapt and be flexible in our approach. No human is blessed with a foresight that can foresee every eventuality, it is an inevitability that new information will come to light, new experiences will be had, and new wisdom will be gained as we walk through our path in life. To hold onto the plans that we created in the beginning with rigidity is to deny the value of this experience and prevent ourselves from evolving as spiritual beings.

In the upright state the 7 of Wands asks us to consider a change in our approach, it does not necessarily require us to start over from scratch but rather to take our original vision and revisit it with fresh eyes, knowing now what we have learned. We often say to ourselves “If I knew then what I know now” in reference to the decisions we made in our past, with these words often spoken in the shadow of regret but we forget to remind ourselves that the commitments we once made that we still hold onto are not only a memory they are a legacy, whether we are still bound by that legacy is a choice, albeit one that may be difficult to change. Regardless, to embrace our growth we need to be able to accept that our priorities shift, our vision clarifies, and our direction can and often will change.

In the inverted state the 7 of Wands asks us to consider what has been built so far, and revaluate whether or not we have met our original vision by a different interpretation. For example, if we set out with the desire to write a book but never manage to achieve this goal explicitly, but in the process write enough content that could fill a book, reconsider whether your objective was in fact met, in other words, consider whether you have written more than the measure of a book in your mind even if you never decided to publish it in the end. It is often the rigidity of our vision that determines our failure rather than reality.

Pages