Comic Strip Spread

 

 

Difficulty: Easy

Note: This spread works best with decks like the Diary of a Broken Soul or Surrealist Tarot because they display scenes rather than pips and do not use reversals.

The Comic Strip Spread is a simple nine-card chronological spread that looks like a page of a comic book. This method should be used to get a glimpse of the future as it would pan out naturally. It may be insightful to use this spread in coordination with biorhythms. The spread is easy to read as a storyboard, just like a comic strip.

The main subject is apparent in the first card, while the story plays out through the following tarot cards.

It is important to pay particular attention to the cards and the relationships with their neighbours. Notice which directions the cards are facing, and how they interact.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Your Comic Strip Reading

II – The High Priestess	Five of Swords, Reversed	Ten of Swords, Reversed
XXI – The World	Three of Wands, Reversed	Six of Wands
VII – The Chariot	Eight of Pentacles, Reversed	XVII – The Star, Reversed

 

 

 

 

Card 1: II – The High Priestess

The High Priestess represents intuition, wisdom, and the subconscious mind. This card embodies the mysteries of the unseen and the inner knowledge that transcends logic and reason. She sits between two pillars, one black and one white, symbolising balance and duality. Behind her is a veil decorated with pomegranates, which suggests hidden knowledge and the gateway to deeper understanding. Her serene expression invites you to connect with the voice within.

The High Priestess is a guardian of wisdom and the keeper of secrets. She represents the connection to the unconscious and the flow of intuition, encouraging you to trust what you feel beyond the surface. The moon at her feet signifies the cyclical nature of life and the importance of cycles, rhythms, and the feminine aspects of existence, such as receptivity, intuition, and introspection. The High Priestess reminds us that not all knowledge can be accessed through logic alone; sometimes, the answers lie in silent reflection.

In Relationships: The High Priestess calls for listening to one's inner wisdom in matters of the heart. It suggests you may need to trust your intuition or inner voice, rather than relying only on external circumstances. This card can indicate a deep connection or a relationship in a period of mystery or uncertainty. It encourages introspection and observation, rather than impulsive action, to navigate the emotional and intuitive aspects of love.

In Work: The High Priestess encourages you to trust your inner wisdom when making career decisions. It may signal a time when knowledge and insight, rather than outward action, are necessary to move forward. This card suggests that sometimes the best way to approach career growth is through reflection, careful observation, and connecting with your deeper instincts. The High Priestess may also indicate hidden opportunities or knowledge available, but not yet revealed. Patience and trust in your intuition will be key in navigating the path forward.

Spiritually: The High Priestess represents spiritual growth and the pursuit of higher knowledge. She invites you to embrace the deeper mysteries of life—to seek enlightenment through inner reflection, meditation, and connection with the subconscious. She symbolises the unfolding of wisdom from a connection to the divine and the unseen realms. The High Priestess encourages a journey of introspection, intuition, and spiritual depth.

 

 

 

 

Card 2: Five of Swords, Reversed

The Five of Swords represents conflict, tension, and the aftermath of a battle. This card signals a situation where there has been a confrontation or a struggle, often marked by feelings of defeat, betrayal, or dishonour. It suggests you may have won a battle, but at a significant cost—whether through personal loss, the harm caused to others, or the erosion of a relationship. The swords in this card symbolise mental conflict, and the image portrays a figure walking away from a skirmish with the spoils, while others are left behind, symbolising the fallout of conflict. The Five of Swords asks you to reflect on the costs of your actions and whether victory was worth the consequences.

Reversed, the Five of Swords can indicate the resolution of conflict, the release of tension, or a realisation of the futility of a battle. The reversal suggests you may be letting go of grudges or no longer fighting for something not worth fighting for. It may also signify an end to a period of mental or emotional turmoil, where you learn to forgive yourself or others and move on from old conflicts. On the flip side, the reversed Five of Swords can also indicate being caught up in petty conflicts or toxic competition, refusing to let go of grudges or continuing to fight meaningless battles. It urges you to reconsider your approach to disputes and choose peace over winning.

In Relationships: The Five of Swords signifies a time of conflict, misunderstanding, or hurtful behaviour. This card may point to arguments, power struggles, or betrayals that have damaged trust between partners. It could also suggest a situation where one partner may be playing games or using manipulation to gain control, leading to feelings of emotional defeat or emotional exhaustion. The Five of Swords asks you to reflect on the dynamics of the relationship and whether the conflict is worth the damage it is causing. It encourages open, honest communication and the need for both parties to let go of pride, ego, and the desire to win at all costs. This card may also suggest that you need to walk away from a toxic relationship, as continuing the battle may only lead to further harm.

In Work: The Five of Swords suggests workplace conflict, competition, or rivalry. This card may indicate a tense environment, and individuals may be fighting for power or recognition. The Five of Swords warns against winning at the expense of others, highlighting the importance of integrity and the consequences of actions that cause harm to colleagues or the work environment. It could also signify being forced to walk away from a situation, job, or project after experiencing defeat, humiliation, or dishonesty. The card advises you to reconsider your approach to career challenges and avoid engaging in unnecessary battles that may damage your reputation or well-being.

Spiritually: The Five of Swords represents inner conflict, self-doubt, or the aftermath of a spiritual battle. This card may indicate that you are struggling with feelings of defeat or disillusionment, perhaps because of a spiritual crisis, a moral dilemma, or a conflict between beliefs or values. The Five of Swords encourages you to examine your inner tension's sources and address unresolved feelings of guilt, shame, or spiritual discord. It is a reminder that holding onto grudges, negative emotions, or a need to be 'right' can impede spiritual growth. This card may also suggest letting go of your pride and ego to find peace, seeking spiritual healing or resolution.

 

 

 

 

Card 3: Ten of Swords, Reversed

The Ten of Swords represents painful endings, betrayal, and hitting rock bottom. This card signals a time of tremendous distress, often indicating that a situation has reached its peak of destruction, and the only way out is through the aftermath. The image depicts a figure lying face down with ten swords piercing their back, symbolising the ultimate betrayal or defeat. The Ten of Swords signifies a crisis or a moment where you feel like everything falls apart, and you are at the lowest point possible. However, it is important to note that the Ten of Swords also marks the completion of a cycle, meaning that while the end is painful, it is also the beginning of a new chapter.

Reversed, the Ten of Swords suggests that the worst of the pain has passed, and you are beginning to heal from a difficult situation. The reversal indicates that you are emerging from emotional or mental distress, and the worst is behind you. While the scars may remain, this card encourages you to focus on recovery, understanding that the healing process is underway. It may also suggest that you are still in the final stages of letting go of a painful situation, but knowing that a new chapter is beginning and that you have the strength to move forward.

In Relationships: The Ten of Swords suggests the painful end of a relationship, possibly involving betrayal, dishonesty, or emotional devastation. You may experience the finality of a breakup, a sense of loss, or the painful realisation that a relationship is no longer serving your well-being. This card indicates a time of heartache but also signals the end of a difficult emotional journey. The Ten of Swords urges you to release any attachment to the past and allow yourself the time and space to heal. While this card represents a painful ending, it also holds the promise of emotional liberation and the opportunity to rebuild your sense of self and open yourself up to future relationships.

In Work: The Ten of Swords represents a significant failure, burnout, or the collapse of a professional endeavour. You may have experienced a career setback, loss of a job, or the failure of a project. This card signals the end of a phase in your work life, often due to betrayal, poor decisions, or circumstances beyond your control. While the Ten of Swords can represent a moment of defeat, it also suggests this is the conclusion of a difficult chapter. The card encourages you to accept the end of the situation and focus on the lessons learned, knowing that from this point forward, you can move on to more fulfilling professional opportunities.

Spiritually: The Ten of Swords indicates spiritual crisis, despair, or the shattering of old beliefs. You may be going through an intense period of doubt, loss, or a profound sense of disconnection from your spiritual path. This card represents the breaking down of old structures and ways of thinking, which can feel devastating but is necessary for growth. The Ten of Swords invites you to embrace this spiritual death and let go of outdated beliefs or attachments that no longer serve you. Though painful, this is an opportunity for rebirth, allowing you to reconnect with your true self and the divine.

 

 

 

 

Card 4: XXI – The World

The World represents completion, fulfilment, and the culmination of a long journey. It symbolises the achievement of a goal, the harmony of opposites, and the attainment of wholeness and balance. Depicted with a dancer encircled by a laurel wreath, with cherubim representing the four fixed signs of the zodiac (Taurus, Leo, Scorpio, and Aquarius) in each corner, the World represents the successful completion of a cycle and the joy that comes with realising your potential. The laurel wreath signifies victory and accomplishment, while the dancer's movement indicates the freedom and joy accompanying the realisation of a dream or goal.

The World signifies the end of one phase and the beginning of another, marking a moment of integration and wholeness. This card invites you to celebrate your achievements, acknowledging the hard work and growth you've been through. It represents a time of satisfaction, accomplishment, and the knowledge that the journey's lessons have been learned. The World suggests you have achieved a level of personal or spiritual maturity, where you feel aligned with your purpose and ready to move forward into the next chapter of life.

In Relationships: The World signifies a harmonious, fulfilling relationship or the completion of a significant romantic cycle. It indicates that you have reached a point of emotional maturity, where you feel at peace within yourself and in your connection with your partner. This card suggests a balanced relationship that brings completion and joy. It may also indicate you are ready to enter a new phase of your romantic life, whether that means deepening your commitment, moving towards a more serious partnership, or even moving on from a relationship that has run its course. For those who are single, the World signals the readiness to embrace love more holistically, free from old baggage, and to attract a relationship that aligns with your true self.

In Work: The World signifies the successful completion of a long-term project or goal. It represents recognition, accomplishment, and the fulfilment of professional aspirations. This card suggests you have reached a level of mastery or expertise and are ready to take on new challenges or ventures. It may also signal the end of a phase in your career, offering the opportunity for growth and advancement in a new direction. The World invites you to celebrate your professional success and acknowledge the effort and dedication it took to reach this point. It also suggests that you are prepared for the next step in your journey, having gained the experience necessary to continue evolving in your career.

Spiritually: The World represents enlightenment, integration, and oneness with the universe. This card signifies that you have reached a place of spiritual balance and fulfilment, where you feel aligned with your purpose and at peace with yourself and the world around you. The World encourages you to embrace the interconnectedness of all things and acknowledge the completion of a significant spiritual cycle. It signals that you have gained wisdom and understanding and are ready to integrate that knowledge into daily life. This card invites you to celebrate your spiritual growth and honour the journey that has brought you to this moment of wholeness.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Card 5: Three of Wands, Reversed

The Three of Wands represents expansion, progress, and the fruition of efforts. It signifies the point where initial planning and efforts begin to show tangible results. Depicted as a figure standing on a cliff, looking out over the horizon, the Three of Wands symbolises the anticipation of what is to come and the realisation that the groundwork has been laid for success. The figure is waiting for ships to return, signalling that the efforts made are now on their way to manifesting. This card speaks to the moment of watching your investments, actions, or plans come to fruition and awaiting the rewards of your previous work.

Reversed, the Three of Wands can indicate delays, obstacles, or a lack of progress. You may feel frustrated as your plans do not seem to be manifesting as expected. It can also suggest that you are focusing too much on short-term results and are losing sight of the long-term vision. The reversed Three of Wands advises you to remain patient and keep working towards your goals, even if you do not see immediate rewards. It may also indicate a need to reassess your efforts to ensure they are aligned with your long-term vision. This card reminds you that even in times of delay, progress is still being made, and you should trust the process and continue your momentum.

In Relationships: The Three of Wands indicates the relationship is progressing, and there's anticipation of the future. This card suggests you and your partner have laid a solid foundation, and now is the time to look ahead to the next phase. There may be plans for travel, a long-distance relationship, or even a period of growth within the connection. The Three of Wands encourages patience as both individuals continue to invest in the relationship, knowing the efforts made will eventually pay off. For those who are single, the Three of Wands suggests you are open to new possibilities in love and are looking ahead to future romantic opportunities, whether that involves waiting for the right person to come into your life or considering potential future relationships that align with your vision.

In Work: The Three of Wands signals that your hard work and planning are beginning to pay off. It indicates that the foundation for success has been established, and now you are in a phase of expansion and progress. This card suggests new opportunities are on the horizon, whether through new projects, partnerships, or ventures. It encourages you to look beyond immediate concerns and focus on long-term growth. The Three of Wands advises you to maintain a broad perspective and stay open to new opportunities. There may be a need to take risks or step outside of your comfort zone to realise the potential of the situation. This card indicates that things are on the right track, and with patience, you will see the rewards of your efforts.

Spiritually: The Three of Wands represents a time of growth, expansion, and spiritual exploration. It indicates that you are on the right path and that your spiritual journey is progressing. This card encourages you to look beyond your current understanding and be open to new teachings, practices, or experiences that will further your spiritual development. The Three of Wands suggests you have already achieved a certain level of spiritual awareness, and now you are ready to take the next steps on your journey. It encourages you to keep your vision wide, embracing the idea that spiritual growth is a continuous process, full of new horizons to discover.

 

 

 

 

Card 6: Six of Wands

The Six of Wands represents victory, recognition, and public acclaim. The sixth card in the Suit of Wands signifies a time of achievement and rewards from overcoming challenges. Depicted as a figure riding a horse, holding a wreath of victory while others cheer from the sidelines, the Six of Wands symbolises triumph, success, and recognition for hard work. This card signifies acknowledgment of one's efforts by peers, colleagues, or the wider community. The Six of Wands speaks to both internal pride and external validation, encouraging you to take a moment to celebrate your accomplishments.

This card reflects a time when you have reached a milestone or completed a significant project, and now you are enjoying the recognition and admiration of others. The Six of Wands suggests your efforts have been noticed, and you are basking in the glow of your success. It encourages confidence and celebrates the idea that you are on the right track, and your achievements reflect your determination and skill. While the card heralds victory, it also reminds you to remain humble and share your success with those who have supported you along the way.

In Relationships: The Six of Wands indicates a successful time. It suggests the couple is being recognised for their unity, and their love is flourishing. This card can represent celebration in love, such as an engagement, a wedding, or a deepening of commitment. It speaks to a time when the relationship feels supported by both partners and their communities. For those who are single, the Six of Wands may suggest that you will soon find success in your romantic endeavours, whether through attracting a new partner or gaining the recognition you deserve in love. This card encourages self-confidence, showing you are ready for a rewarding romantic experience.

In Work: The Six of Wands is a sign of achievement, victory, and recognition. It indicates that you have completed a project or reached an important professional milestone. This card celebrates your dedication, skill, and leadership, along with the acknowledgment you will receive from others for your hard work. It may indicate receiving a promotion, a job offer, or public recognition for your contributions. The Six of Wands encourages you to take pride in your success and enjoy the validation that comes with it, while also reminding you to stay grounded and humble. This card also suggests your career is on an upward trajectory, and your efforts are being noticed by the right people.

Spiritually: The Six of Wands signifies a time of spiritual victory and personal growth. You may feel accomplishment in your spiritual journey, having overcome a difficult phase, or gain deeper insight. This card suggests your spiritual practices are yielding positive results and that you are being acknowledged for your dedication. It also indicates confidence and alignment with your higher self, allowing you to share your wisdom and experiences with others. The Six of Wands encourages you to take pride in your spiritual journey while remaining humble and open to continued growth. It suggests you are on the right path and that your spiritual victories are worth celebrating.

 

 

 

 

Card 7: VII – The Chariot

The Chariot represents determination, willpower, victory, and control. It embodies the energy of triumph over obstacles, achievement through effort, and the mastery of one's emotions and environment. A strong figure drives a chariot, guided by inner strength and unwavering resolve. The charioteer holds the reins, symbolising the control and discipline needed to direct the forces of will, both within and without. Two sphinxes pull the chariot, looking in opposite directions, representing the balancing of opposing forces that must be harmonised to achieve success.

The Chariot is a card of action and victory, signalling that through persistence, focus, and determination, you have the power to overcome challenges and achieve your goals. This card emphasises the importance of controlling your emotions, desires, and external circumstances to move forward confidently. The Chariot reminds us that success often comes from hard work, resilience, and the ability to stay focused on the desired outcome when the path is difficult.

In Relationships: The Chariot signifies a time of forward movement and decisive action. It suggests you are ready to take control of your romantic life and move past obstacles or doubts. This card can indicate overcoming challenges, gaining clarity about your desires, or taking the lead in matters of the heart. The Chariot encourages you to stay determined and confident, pursuing love with focus and a clear sense of direction. It may also signal a period of growth in a relationship where both partners are moving forward together with shared goals and mutual understanding.

In Work: The Chariot is a powerful card, representing the determination and drive needed to achieve professional goals. It signifies a time to harness your inner strength and take decisive action towards your ambitions. This card encourages you to stay focused on your objectives, overcoming any obstacles or challenges that may arise. The Chariot reminds you that success will be achieved through perseverance, self-discipline, and maintaining control over external distractions. It can also indicate a journey of personal and professional growth, where you can push past your limits to achieve greatness.

Spiritually: The Chariot represents the mastery of one's inner forces and the ability to direct energy towards personal transformation. This card encourages you to use your willpower and focus to overcome spiritual challenges and obstacles, remaining determined on your path of growth and enlightenment. The Chariot invites you to embrace your power, channelling it towards spiritual advancement. It also speaks to the importance of balance and self-control, urging you to stay grounded and focused as you move forward on your spiritual journey.

 

 

 

 

Card 8: Eight of Pentacles, Reversed

The Eight of Pentacles represents diligence, mastery, and concerted effort. This card embodies the energy of hard work, skill-building, and dedication to one's craft. It depicts a figure working hard at their craft, chiselling away at a piece of wood or metal, focusing intently on their task. The Eight of Pentacles suggests you are putting in the work and effort to improve your skills, whether in your career, creative endeavours, or personal development. It speaks to the importance of perseverance and the value of continuous learning and improvement.

Reversed, the Eight of Pentacles may indicate a lack of focus, poor work habits, or feeling stuck in a repetitive cycle. You may be struggling with motivation, feeling overwhelmed by the task at hand, or not putting in the effort to achieve your goals. It can also suggest a tendency to cut corners, be careless, or avoid the work required for growth. The reversed Eight of Pentacles advises you to assess whether you are committed to your work and evaluate if your efforts are aligned with your long-term goals. It may also suggest the need to re-evaluate your approach or seek guidance to go forward with more clarity.

In Relationships: The Eight of Pentacles suggests you may be putting in significant effort to nurture and grow your relationship. This card indicates you are dedicated to making the relationship work, focusing on improving communication, understanding, or other important aspects. It may also suggest that you are working through challenges or learning more about your partner, to build a deeper and more lasting connection. The Eight of Pentacles encourages you to work to cultivate love, whether by making small efforts to show affection, communicating openly, or working together to resolve conflicts. Success in love, like any other endeavour, requires attention, care, and a commitment to growth.

In Work: The Eight of Pentacles signifies concerted effort, where you are dedicating yourself to improving your skills or advancing in your profession. This card suggests you are in a phase of apprenticeship or learning, perhaps acquiring new knowledge or expertise to further your career. It may indicate that you are refining your craft, mastering a particular aspect of your job, or working diligently to complete a project with a high level of quality. The Eight of Pentacles encourages you to continue to dedicate yourself to your work, as success in this area will come from consistent effort, attention to detail, and a commitment to personal growth. The card may also suggest you are on the path to becoming an expert in your field, with the potential for recognition or achievement.

Spiritually: The Eight of Pentacles represents a time of disciplined effort and growth in one's spiritual practice. It is a time when you dedicate yourself to improving your understanding or honing your spiritual practices. This card suggests you are engaged in learning, whether studying sacred texts, meditating regularly, or engaging in rituals or practices that deepen your connection to the divine. The Eight of Pentacles encourages you to remain dedicated and patient, as spiritual growth requires ongoing effort and the willingness to refine your approach. The card reminds you that spiritual mastery is a continuous journey and each small step contributes to greater understanding.

 

 

 

 

Card 9: XVII – The Star, Reversed

The Star represents hope, inspiration, healing, and spiritual guidance. This card embodies the light that shines through darkness, offering peace and renewal after turmoil. A serene figure pouring water into a pool and onto the earth represents the flow of divine energy that nurtures both the soul and the world around us. This card suggests a time of spiritual clarity, where you are guided towards inner peace, hope, and faith in the future. The bright stars above symbolise the presence of higher wisdom, while the figure's calm demeanour indicates a connection to the self and the universe.

Reversed, the Star can indicate feelings of hopelessness, disillusionment, or a lack of faith. It may suggest you are disconnected from your inner light, struggling to find hope or inspiration after a period of hardship. The reversed Star may also point to a lack of healing or difficulty moving on from old wounds. This card encourages you to reconnect with your inner sense of purpose and trust in the process of life. The reversed Star suggests you may need to nurture your spiritual well-being, work on self-healing, and open yourself to the possibility of renewal and hope, even when it seems difficult.

In Relationships: The Star signifies healing and renewal or the hope of a new and positive beginning. It suggests that you or your relationship may be in a phase of recovery, where old wounds are being healed, and the relationship is growing into something more harmonious. The Star encourages optimism, suggesting that you trust in the potential for future growth and love. It may also indicate a time for healing after a breakup or a difficult emotional period, reminding you that new love, hope, and happiness are on the horizon. This card promotes spiritual alignment and connection in relationships, guiding you to love yourself first before sharing that love with another.

In Work: The Star signifies renewal, hope, and inspiration in your professional life. It suggests new opportunities are emerging or you are reconnecting with your true purpose or passion in your work. This card encourages creativity, innovation, and the pursuit of dreams, indicating that you are on the right path towards fulfilling your professional goals. The Star brings clarity and guidance, suggesting to trust your intuition and vision for the future. It can also represent a time of recovery or rebuilding after setbacks or challenges, reassuring you that you have the potential to succeed if you stay true to your values.

Spiritually: The Star represents divine guidance, healing, and connection to the higher self. This card invites you to open your heart to spiritual insight and trust that you are being guided by the universe. The Star suggests a period of spiritual renewal, where you may experience peace, clarity, and alignment with your spiritual path. It encourages you to have faith in your spiritual journey, even if the road ahead seems unclear. The Star is a reminder that the universe is always guiding and supporting you, and that spiritual growth comes with a sense of trust, hope, and connection to the divine.