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

Six of Swords, Reversed	VII – The Chariot	Queen of Cups, Reversed
Two of Swords	Knight of Cups, Reversed	XII – The Hanged Man, Reversed
Four of Wands, Reversed	Page of Wands	Ace of Swords, Reversed

 

 

 

 

Card 1: Six of Swords, Reversed

The Six of Swords represents moving forward from a difficult situation. This card signals leaving behind a time of hardship or emotional turbulence and heading towards calmer, more peaceful waters. It suggests you are healing or recovering from a challenging experience, and while the road ahead may still require effort, there is relief and optimism as you start moving forward. The image depicts a figure traveling across a body of water in a boat, with swords representing the mental challenges or emotional baggage left behind.

Reversed, the Six of Swords can indicate that you are resisting transition, either unwilling to move on from the past or not ready to let go of a difficult situation. The reversal suggests you may feel stuck in a state of emotional or mental turmoil, unable to move forward or find closure. It may also signify that you still carry emotional baggage or unresolved issues hindering your progress. The reversed Six of Swords encourages you to confront your fears or hesitations and embrace the change necessary for healing and growth. It is a call to leave the past behind and take the first steps towards a brighter future.

In Relationships: The Six of Swords suggests moving on from emotional pain or difficulties. This card indicates that you are healing, leaving behind old hurts or a toxic relationship to find peace. The Six of Swords may signal the end of a difficult period in love, a time you are finally ready to move on and open yourself up to new possibilities. It encourages you to let go of the past, release emotional baggage, and trust that the journey towards healing will lead to healthier and more fulfilling relationships. This card is a reminder that sometimes the best way forward in love is to move away from situations that no longer align with your well-being.

In Work: The Six of Swords indicates a period of transition when you are moving from a challenging work situation or difficult project towards a more favourable environment. This could involve leaving a job, moving to a new position, or changing career paths for greater satisfaction or stability. The Six of Swords signifies a shift, where you distance yourself from old problems and focus on your growth and success. It is a reminder that while change may be intimidating, it often leads to progress and opportunity. The card encourages you to move forward confidently, knowing the journey will bring you closer to your goals.

Spiritually: The Six of Swords represents a journey of recovery and growth. This card suggests you are leaving behind limiting beliefs, old wounds, or difficult spiritual experiences to find peace, balance, and clarity. It may indicate a period of spiritual renewal when you distance yourself from past traumas or negative influences and focus on your path of personal development. The Six of Swords encourages you to trust your spiritual journey, knowing that each step forward brings you closer to a higher understanding or inner peace. It is a reminder that healing takes time, but the journey towards enlightenment is worth the effort.

 

 

 

 

Card 2: 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 3: Queen of Cups, Reversed

The Queen of Cups represents emotional intelligence, compassion, and intuitive understanding. She embodies the nurturing aspects of the feminine, using her emotional sensitivity to guide and support others. This card signifies a time when you may be in touch with your emotions and instincts, offering warmth, empathy, and understanding to those around you. The Queen of Cups is a healer, counsellor, and protector who can hold space for others' feelings while maintaining emotional balance and self-awareness.

Reversed, the Queen of Cups may indicate emotional imbalance, co-dependency, or difficulty in healthily expressing emotions. The reversal suggests you may be overwhelmed by your feelings, struggling to maintain emotional boundaries, or focused on others' emotions at the expense of your well-being. The Queen of Cups reversed can also indicate a lack of self-care or neglecting your emotional needs, either due to fear of vulnerability or giving too much to others. This card invites you to reconnect with your emotions, set healthy boundaries, and prioritise self-care to regain emotional balance.

In Relationships: The Queen of Cups represents a strong emotional connection and the ability to give and receive love in a nurturing, compassionate way. This card suggests you may be in or about to experience a relationship where emotional support, empathy, and understanding are key. The Queen of Cups encourages you to approach love with kindness, patience, and emotional maturity, ensuring you can offer and receive love while maintaining healthy emotional boundaries. This card may indicate a period of emotional growth and healing, where both partners can support each other. The Queen of Cups reminds you that true love is built on a foundation of emotional care and mutual respect.

In Work: The Queen of Cups suggests you may find success in fields that require nurturing qualities, such as counselling, caregiving, the arts, or any profession that involves helping others. This card encourages you to trust your intuition and emotional insight in your work, using these gifts to guide your decision-making and interactions. The Queen of Cups may also indicate a period of personal growth in the professional realm, where your emotional awareness helps you navigate challenges with grace and understanding. This card reminds you to find balance, ensuring you are fulfilled in your career, and you nurture your emotional well-being while supporting others.

Spiritually: The Queen of Cups represents emotional healing, intuition, and a strong connection to the spiritual realm. This card indicates that you are in tune with your inner voice and spiritual wisdom, allowing your intuition to guide you. The Queen of Cups encourages you to trust your instincts and emotional insights as you navigate your spiritual journey. This card may also suggest that you are being called to help others.

 

 

 

 

Card 4: Two of Swords

The Two of Swords represents indecision, stalemate, and the need for balanced judgement. This card appears when you are faced with a difficult decision or unable to see the truth of a situation. The swords in this card often depict a figure blindfolded, symbolising the inability to see the full picture or to make a clear choice. The Two of Swords asks you to balance intellect and emotions, carefully weigh the options, and trust in your ability to make the right decision when the time is right. It signifies a period of inner conflict, where the mind is divided, and external circumstances may not provide clear answers.

The Two of Swords calls for a pause and contemplation, urging you to seek clarity within before acting. It is a reminder that the solution may not be readily apparent, and decisions made without proper reflection could lead to regret. The card encourages you to take time to research, assess both sides of the situation, and approach the decision with balance and fairness. The blindfold suggests that clarity may come with time, and while you may not have all the answers now, you will gain insight as you approach the issue rationally.

In Relationships: The Two of Swords indicates a relationship stalemate or a decision that needs to be made. This card suggests there may be a situation where you are avoiding confronting difficult truths or making a choice in your romantic life. It could indicate a relationship where communication has stalled or there is a lack of clarity regarding the next steps. The Two of Swords encourages you to be honest with yourself and your partner, addressing the emotional blockages or uncertainties that may exist. It is a reminder that avoiding a decision or shutting out emotions will not resolve the situation.

In Work: The Two of Swords signals indecision or mental conflict regarding a job, project, or career path. This card suggests you may be at a crossroads in your professional life, unsure of which direction to take. The Two of Swords asks you to carefully evaluate the options available, ensuring you are not making decisions based on external pressure or fear. It may also indicate a time when you feel stuck or unable to make progress, either because of hesitation or external factors. The card encourages you to reflect on your goals, trusting that clarity will come with patience and introspection.

Spiritually: The Two of Swords represents inner conflict or a need to balance one's beliefs. This card suggests you may feel torn between two paths, practices, or ways of thinking. The Two of Swords encourages you to look inward, seeking clarity and guidance from your higher self. It is a reminder that spiritual growth often requires tough decisions, and the ability to balance opposing forces within the self is key to moving forward. You may need to quiet the mind, remove distractions, and connect with your intuition to find the answers you seek.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Card 5: Knight of Cups, Reversed

The Knight of Cups represents emotional pursuit, romance, and following one's heart with passion and conviction. This card embodies a figure determined to chase after their dreams, desires, and ideals, often in the realm of love, creativity, or spiritual growth. The Knight of Cups signifies a time when you are feeling inspired, motivated, and driven by your emotions or a sense of purpose. This knight rides a horse while holding a chalice, symbolising a quest for emotional fulfilment, passion, and emotional connection.

Reversed, the Knight of Cups may indicate emotional instability, unrealistic expectations, or being swept away by fantasies or illusions. The reversal suggests you may be acting impulsively or idealistically without considering the consequences, which could lead to disappointment or heartache. It may also signify a lack of emotional direction or a tendency to avoid responsibility in relationships or other emotional matters. The Knight of Cups reversed invites you to ground your emotions and be more discerning in your pursuits, particularly in matters of the heart. It calls for a more balanced approach, ensuring that emotional impulses are aligned with reality and practicality.

In Relationships: The Knight of Cups represents a romantic and idealistic approach. This card suggests you may be on the cusp of experiencing a romantic encounter or a period where emotions are passionate and transformative. The Knight of Cups brings the energy of a romantic adventurer, someone willing to do whatever it takes to express their love, woo a partner, or follow the call of the heart. For those already in relationships, this card may indicate a renewal of passion, a deepening emotional connection, or heightened romance. The Knight of Cups urges you to be open to the emotional flow, allow love to guide you, and take inspired action in love without hesitation.

In Work: The Knight of Cups suggests you may be pursuing a path that aligns with your passions, creativity, or emotional fulfilment. This card represents the pursuit of work that feels meaningful or emotionally rewarding, rather than simply chasing external rewards or recognition. The Knight of Cups may indicate a project or job involving creative expression, emotional intelligence, or helping others, suggesting that you are guided by a calling. This card encourages you to take inspired action in your career, follow your intuition, and stay true to your dreams, even if the path is unconventional.

Spiritually: The Knight of Cups signifies a time of emotional and spiritual exploration, where you are called to trust your intuition. This card suggests you may be on a quest for deeper meaning, inspired by a spiritual ideal. The Knight of Cups invites you to embrace your emotions as a gateway to spiritual growth, encouraging you to follow your heart and intuition. This card can also represent the need for creative or artistic expression as a form of spiritual practice, where you connect with your higher self through imagination, art, or music.

 

 

 

 

Card 6: XII – The Hanged Man, Reversed

The Hanged Man represents surrender, suspension, perspective, and letting go. This card embodies pausing to reflect and seeing life from a different angle. A figure hanging upside down by one foot signifies a period of stillness or suspension, where forward movement is halted and a new way of thinking must emerge. The figure's serene expression and the halo around his head suggest that this pause is not one of suffering, but an intentional and transformative moment of introspection. The Hanged Man teaches that sometimes we must detach from our usual way of living or thinking to experience growth, release, and enlightenment.

Reversed, the Hanged Man can indicate resistance to change, an inability to release control, or a feeling of being stuck in an unproductive or stagnant situation. It suggests you may be avoiding necessary reflection or failing to shift your perspective, leading to frustration or a sense of being trapped. This card reversed warns against staying in one place for too long, refusing to adapt, or becoming too attached to old ideas. The Hanged Man reversed encourages you to embrace the discomfort of change, trust in the process of transformation, and allow yourself to let go of outdated or limiting beliefs. It suggests that the key to progress lies in surrendering to the flow of life and viewing things from a fresh perspective.

In Relationships: The Hanged Man suggests a time of reflection and reconsideration. It may indicate a need to pause and view the partnership from a different angle, possibly encouraging you to look beyond surface issues and explore deeper emotional truths. This card often points to a period of waiting or suspension, where things may feel stagnant or on hold, but where growth still occurs. The Hanged Man invites you to release expectations or rigid beliefs about love and instead be open to new perspectives and understandings. It also encourages self-sacrifice for the sake of the relationship, though with caution, ensuring the sacrifices made are not one-sided.

In Work: The Hanged Man points to a time of pause, reflection, or a shift in perspective regarding professional goals. It may suggest that you are in a phase where movement or progress is temporarily halted, and the key to success lies in rethinking your approach or strategy. This card advises patience and a willingness to let go of previous expectations or rigid plans to allow for new ideas and approaches to emerge. The Hanged Man can also indicate sacrifice or selflessness in your work, perhaps taking on a project or task that feels limiting or uncomfortable for the sake of a greater purpose or long-term gain. It teaches that growth often comes through patience and seeing things from a new angle.

Spiritually: The Hanged Man represents a necessary pause in one's spiritual journey, where the seeker is invited to let go of ego, attachments, and the need for control in order to achieve enlightenment. This card encourages you to release old beliefs, perspectives, and patterns to embrace a higher consciousness. The Hanged Man speaks to the process of surrender, where spiritual growth is achieved by stepping away from the material world and allowing oneself to be guided by faith, intuition, and trust in the universe. It is a reminder that some of the most profound spiritual growth occurs during times of stillness, waiting, or letting go.

 

 

 

 

Card 7: Four of Wands, Reversed

The Four of Wands represents celebration, harmony, and the achievement of a milestone. The fourth card in the Suit of Wands signifies a moment of joy and recognition, where efforts have led to a secure foundation. Depicted as a celebration or wedding, the Four of Wands marks a time when you can relax and celebrate your successes. The card shows people dancing, celebrating, or standing under a wreath of flowers, symbolising the completion of a task or project achieved with unity and collaboration. The Four of Wands is about coming together to mark a significant achievement or a period of peace.

Reversed, the Four of Wands can indicate disharmony, instability, or a disruption in peace. You may experience conflict or tension in your personal life, relationships, or work. It may suggest the delay of a celebration, or that security is being undermined. The reversed Four of Wands can also indicate that you are struggling to feel at home or comfortable in your current situation, whether it's a romantic relationship or your professional environment. It encourages you to address any issues preventing harmony and work towards creating a more stable and peaceful foundation. This card reminds you that while obstacles may arise, you can restore balance and reconnect with your inner sense of peace.

In Relationships: The Four of Wands indicates a joyful, stable, and harmonious period. This card often symbolises milestones such as engagements, weddings, or moving in together, as it represents a time when the couple has reached a significant moment of unity and celebration. It can also indicate a relationship that brings security, peace, and mutual support. For those in long-term partnerships, the Four of Wands can signify a period of renewed stability, where both partners feel more connected and aligned in their shared goals. For those who are single, this card suggests a happy, stable relationship may be on the horizon, one that offers both emotional fulfilment and belonging.

In Work: The Four of Wands indicates the completion of a major project or a professional milestone. It marks a time of celebration for the hard work and teamwork that has gone into achieving a goal. This card signifies recognition, security, and the reward of efforts well spent. It may suggest that you are in a period of consolidation, where your career is solidifying, and you can take a moment to relax and enjoy the stability you've worked hard to create. The Four of Wands also points to a time when collaboration, support from colleagues, or a sense of community at work leads to greater success. It's a reminder that both individual effort and collective support are necessary for long-term success.

Spiritually: The Four of Wands represents peace, stability, and the celebration of one's personal growth. It indicates a period of contentment and spiritual alignment where you feel grounded and secure in your path. This card can suggest harmony and integration between different aspects of the self, such as mind, body, and spirit. The Four of Wands encourages you to celebrate the progress made on your spiritual journey and enjoy the peace and balance you have achieved. It may also represent a time with a supportive spiritual community or finding peace in your connection with others who share your beliefs.

 

 

 

 

Card 8: Page of Wands

The Page of Wands represents enthusiasm, curiosity, and the spirit of adventure. It embodies the energy of a youngster eager to explore new ideas, projects, or possibilities. This card reflects a time of inspiration, where you are full of creative potential and ready to embark on a new journey, whether in career, relationships, or personal growth. Depicted as a figure holding a wand, gazing into the distance, the Page of Wands suggests you are looking ahead with excitement, anticipation, and a sense of limitless potential. The Page is not weighed down by doubts or fears, but filled with the eagerness to discover and experience what lies ahead.

The Page of Wands embodies the spirit of exploration and self-expression and encourages you to follow your instincts and passions. It may signify the beginning stages of a new venture or the excitement of starting something fresh. This card encourages boldness and risk-taking, urging you to dive into new opportunities with an open heart and wonder. It suggests now is the time to embrace new ideas, creative projects, or personal pursuits with enthusiasm.

In Relationships: The Page of Wands indicates a time of excitement, new beginnings, or fresh energy. This card suggests a renewed sense of passion, spontaneity, and adventure. It may point to an exciting phase where the partners discover additional aspects of each other or explore new possibilities within the relationship. For singles, the Page of Wands represents the potential for a new romantic connection, one characterised by lightness, fun, and discovery. The Page's energy encourages you to approach love with an open and adventurous spirit, willing to take risks and explore new connections. This card may also suggest that you are attracted to someone who embodies youthful energy, passion, and creativity.

In Work: The Page of Wands signals the beginning of a new creative project or an exciting professional opportunity. It indicates you may embark on a new venture or enter a field that sparks your curiosity and enthusiasm. The Page of Wands encourages you to approach your work with passion, creativity, and a willingness to experiment. This card suggests a time to explore innovative ideas, take bold steps, and trust your creative impulses. It may also indicate youthful energy in the workplace, where you are learning new skills, developing your talents, and gaining confidence in your abilities. The Page of Wands urges you to take initiative, embrace new challenges, and pursue exciting opportunities.

Spiritually: The Page of Wands represents a time of exploration and growth. You may be discovering new paths, philosophies, or practices that ignite your inner fire and curiosity. This card encourages you to be ready to explore new ideas or teachings. The Page of Wands is a reminder to embrace the adventure of self-discovery, be curious about the mysteries of the universe, and remain open to the spiritual lessons that lie ahead. It suggests you are in a phase of learning and growth, where the exploration of new spiritual practices may lead to greater understanding and enlightenment.

 

 

 

 

Card 9: Ace of Swords, Reversed

The Ace of Swords represents clarity, truth, and mental breakthroughs. As the embodiment of raw intellectual power, this card signifies the arrival of new ideas, insights, or a moment of sudden realisation that cuts through the confusion. The sword, as a symbol of intellect and communication, shows that you are being presented with a fresh perspective, the potential for mental clarity, or an opportunity to engage with truth clearly and directly. The Ace of Swords offers the energy of a sharp mind, clear intentions, and the ability to face challenges with a straightforward approach.

Reversed, the Ace of Swords can indicate confusion, dishonesty, or mental blockages. The reversal suggests you may be struggling to see things clearly, either because of internal confusion, miscommunication, or being caught in illusions. It may also indicate that you are avoiding the truth by not speaking up or denying a reality that needs to be addressed. The Ace of Swords reversed encourages you to seek clarity and be honest with yourself and others. It suggests the need to clear away the fog and allow direct communication to guide you towards understanding.

In Relationships: The Ace of Swords represents clear communication, honesty, and truth. This card signals a time when you or your partner may need to have an important conversation that cuts through misunderstandings or brings clarity to a situation. The Ace of Swords encourages you to speak your truth openly and directly, clearing the air and removing any confusion or deception. This card may also indicate a breakthrough in understanding each other's needs or desires, where clarity leads to a stronger emotional connection. The Ace of Swords reminds you that honesty is essential in love and that addressing hard truths with clarity can bring about profound change and growth.

In Work: The Ace of Swords suggests a new intellectual breakthrough or a fresh idea that could lead to success. It may signify the beginning of a new project, endeavour, or direction in the professional realm based on strategic thinking and clear communication. This card encourages you to use your mental abilities to tackle problems, solve challenges, and move forward confidently. The Ace of Swords often indicates the start of something where clarity of purpose and mental focus are key. You may be called to speak up, lead with logic, or bring a new perspective to your career, potentially leading to greater success.

Spiritually: The Ace of Swords signifies clarity of thought and the pursuit of truth on a deeper level. This card indicates you may experience a moment of spiritual awakening or a surge of insight that cuts through confusion or previous misconceptions. The Ace of Swords invites you to seek truth, challenge old beliefs, and engage with spirituality from a place of intellectual clarity and personal integrity. This card also encourages you to embrace the power of your mind in your spiritual practice, suggesting that mental clarity and an open mind are essential for spiritual growth. It represents the potential for enlightenment, where new understanding can lead to profound transformation.