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

X – The Wheel of Fortune	I – The Magician	XXI – The World
IV – The Emperor	IX – The Hermit	III – The Empress
XX – Judgement	0 – The Fool	XV – The Devil

 

 

 

 

Card 1: X – The Wheel of Fortune

The Wheel of Fortune signifies change, cycles, and destiny. The wheel turns, representing the ebb and flow of fortune and the constant cycles of life.

Symbolism: The wheel, surrounded by figures and animals, turns with inevitability. A sphinx sits atop the wheel, symbolising wisdom amidst life's changes. The card reflects the role of fate in the twists and turns of existence.

In Relationships: A shift in relationship dynamics or new opportunities.

In Work: Fortuitous changes or shifts in circumstances, often outside of your control.

Spiritually: Trust in the cycles of life and accept the flow of destiny.

When ill-dignified: Resistance to change or feeling trapped in an unfavourable cycle.

 

 

 

 

Card 2: I – The Magician

The Magician signifies mastery, skill, and the power to shape reality. This card represents harnessing resources and directing one's energies towards success. The Magician embodies the potential to manifest desires into tangible form.

Symbolism: He stands before a table with tools representing the four elements: a cup (Water), a sword (Air), a coin (Earth), and a wand (Fire). His raised wand symbolises the connection between spirit and matter, and his hat, shaped like an infinity symbol, signifies endless potential.

In Relationships: A time to use charm, wit, and initiative to build or strengthen relationships.

In Work: Opportunity, success, and the power to manifest goals through skill and action.

Spiritually: The Magician teaches the importance of intention, focus, and using one's talents for higher purposes.

When ill-dignified: Deception, manipulation, or scattered energy. Warning against using one's power for selfish gain.

 

 

 

 

Card 3: XXI – The World

The World represents completion, fulfilment, and the achievement of wholeness. This card signifies the end of a cycle and the successful realisation of goals and aspirations.

Symbolism: The World features a figure dancing within a wreath, holding two wands. The four corners of the card show the symbols of the fixed signs of the zodiac: the bull, lion, eagle, and man, representing the harmony of the four elements and the completion of the journey.

In Relationships: Harmony, fulfilment, and the completion of a phase of a relationship. The achievement of mutual understanding and goals.

In Work: The successful completion of a project or phase, leading to accomplishment and new beginnings.

Spiritually: The attainment of wholeness, completion, and the alignment of the self with the universe.

When ill-dignified: Complacency, stagnation, or the inability to move forward despite opportunities for growth.

 

 

 

 

Card 4: IV – The Emperor

The Emperor embodies structure, authority, and rational leadership. He embodies the power of order and disciplined action, urging us to establish strong foundations and clear boundaries in all aspects of life.

Symbolism: Adorned with a regal crown and seated on an imposing throne, the Emperor exudes control and stability. His detailed, authoritative attire and the subtle inclusion of esoteric symbols speak to a mastery over both the material and the mystical realms, emphasising the importance of balance between external order and inner wisdom.

In Relationships: The Emperor encourages healthy dynamics marked by protection, responsibility, and mutual respect. His energy suggests that strong leadership and clear boundaries can foster trust and stability within partnerships.

In Work: Success in professional endeavours comes through strategic planning, disciplined execution, and the establishment of order. The Emperor's influence highlights leadership, authority, and the ability to structure one's environment for optimal productivity.

Spiritually: Embodying a union of earthly power and cosmic order, the Emperor invites you to align your will with higher universal principles. His guidance emphasises the importance of self-discipline and integrity on the path to spiritual growth.

When ill-dignified: A misaligned Emperor may indicate an overbearing or inflexible attitude, where authority turns into domination and rigidity stifles creativity and progress.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Card 5: IX – The Hermit

The Hermit represents wisdom, introspection, and the search for spiritual clarity. He calls for a retreat into solitude to find deeper meaning.

Symbolism: The Hermit holds a glowing lantern, symbolising divine wisdom. His staff represents the guidance he offers others, while the snake hints at his persuasiveness. His solitary journey through a barren landscape reflects the pursuit of enlightenment.

In Relationships: A time for introspection and finding deeper meaning.

In Work: A need for solitude, mentorship, or stepping back to reassess goals.

Spiritually: A journey of spiritual discovery and the search for deeper truths.

When ill-dignified: Isolation, withdrawal, or stagnation in one's journey.

 

 

 

 

Card 6: III – The Empress

The Empress embodies creativity, fertility, and nurturing energy. She symbolises the fruitful aspects of life, from creativity to personal growth, and encourages abundance in all forms.

Symbolism: Adorned with a crown of stars, she sits in a lush, fertile garden, holding a sceptre and shield. These symbols signify both authority and protection. The crescent moon beneath her feet connects her to cycles of intuition and growth.

In Relationships: Nurturing love, emotional bonds, or the creation of something new in a relationship, such as a family.

In Work: Success in creative ventures, productive work, and harmony.

Spiritually: Connection with natural and cosmic cycles, alignment with divine timing.

When ill-dignified: Stagnation, overindulgence, or the misuse of creative energy.

 

 

 

 

Card 7: XX – Judgement

Judgement signifies awakening, rebirth, and the call for transformation. It represents a moment of reckoning, where one must confront past actions and make a decisive move towards spiritual renewal.

Symbolism: The card depicts an angel blowing a trumpet, summoning the figures below to rise from their graves. This symbolises resurrection, awakening, and the opportunity to start anew. The figures represent souls being called to accountability and transformation.

In Relationships: A transformative period in relationships, where past actions and decisions must be reconciled.

In Work: A time of reckoning, where decisions from the past may come to fruition, calling for a new direction.

Spiritually: Spiritual awakening and the need to answer a higher call. Transformation and rebirth are key themes.

When ill-dignified: Denial, avoidance of responsibility, or refusal to embrace the transformative potential of change.

 

 

 

 

Card 8: 0 – The Fool

The Fool represents freedom, spontaneity, and new beginnings. This card signifies the start of an adventurous journey, full of potential but also uncertainty. He reminds us to embrace the unknown with optimism and an open heart.

Symbolism: The Fool carries a staff and a small sack, symbolising untapped potential and the lessons to be learned. The playful animal at his feet represents instinct, loyalty, and sometimes, the forces that pull us in conflicting directions. His carefree attitude invites a leap into the unknown.

In Relationships: New romantic beginnings, playfulness, and spontaneity, but be wary of impulsive actions.

In Work: A time for exploration, openness to unconventional opportunities, and embracing the unfamiliar.

Spiritually: Embarking on a journey of self-discovery, embracing the unknown with faith.

When ill-dignified: Recklessness, lack of foresight, and the dangers of ignoring consequences.

 

 

 

 

Card 9: XV – The Devil

The Devil represents temptation, materialism, and the enslavement of desires. It points to the darker aspects of the self, where one is bound by addictions, fears, or unhealthy attachments.

Symbolism: The Devil is depicted as a horned figure with a monstrous appearance, standing over two chained figures. The chains are loose, indicating that freedom is possible, but the figures are unaware of their power to escape. The card represents self-imposed limitations.

In Relationships: Unhealthy attachments, temptation, or toxic relationships. A call to break free from negative patterns.

In Work: Materialism, greed, or feeling trapped in a situation. The need to release limiting behaviours.

Spiritually: The need to confront personal fears, addictions, or attachments that block spiritual growth.

When ill-dignified: Excess, obsession, or being enslaved by negative influences or desires.