"The Ace of Clubs is a card of talent. It tells of high hopes and ambitions and denotes strong passions, imagination, energy and the power to communicate with others. Inherent in the card, however, is the suggestion that promises are unfulfilled, talents unchanneled, and the maximum of creativity jeopardized by inner turmoil.
"When the Ace of Clubs is centrally located in the spread, it intimates that the Querent has been given high gifts of artistic creation, intuitive power, forces that spring not only from the mind but also from mystic sources. His imagination will be vivid and he will have the power to express his images through authorship in the larger sense, which may include communication through the written word, art, music, the ministry and a variety of other channels.
"However, the Ace of Clubs also warns of the possibility of chaos. Too many drives may nullify one another, preventing the success of any. Keenness of mind, sharp perceptions and vividness of imagery may fail to serve useful purposes unless they can be given concrete shape.
"The Ace of Clubs indicates a quickness of mind which is often accompanied by a failure to understand the limitations of others; an artistic temperament which thrusts aside practicalities; imaginative heights which lure their author away from solid accomplishment. For these reasons, the Querent should be urged to organize his activities and to perfect his plans lest he become a dabbler in the arts instead of a creative artist.
"In arcane lore, the Ace of Clubs us sometimes linked with the nomad or wanderer who moves restlessly with the seasons, delighting in each day without thought of the future. Conversely, other arcane sources designate the Ace of Clubs as the master builder with the power to control the movements of the moon and sun and to change the pattern of the stars in the sky. In each case, the sense of exaltation is present and there are indications that the Querent who finds this card in his spread will enjoy travel, quick changes and variety, and that he will be deeply moved by beauty. Whether he controls these shifting forces or lets himself be carried willy-nilly through life depends upon the character and personality of the Querent.
"The Reader should be guided in his advice to the Querent by the cards surrounding the Ace of Clubs. Where Hearts predominate in the spread, there is a warning of hedonism and a suggestion that the Querent may not have developed his talents because of his pleasures in daily living. Where Clubs dominate the spread, an interest and enjoyment in people and social activities may prevent full development of artistic skills. Diamonds indicate that material rewards may be gained by the exercise of latent talents. Spades may warn that the Querent is too easily discouraged by minor setbacks. A well-balanced spread promises increased pleasure and spiraling rewards through creative activity."
Second Card:
Two of Clubs
"The Two of Clubs represents a social invitation. This may be a bid to a club, an invitation to a social gathering or even a dinner engagement. On the surface the invitation may seem trifling, of little consequence. But the appearance of the Two of Clubs in the spread indicates that the acceptance of the invitation will play an unexpectedly important role in the Querent's life. This is particularly true if the card lies in the middle of the spread. When face cards appear close to the Two of Clubs, the indication is that the invitation will lead to new friendships. If a face card representing an individual of the opposite sex from the Querent lies directly above or below the Two of Clubs, there is a promise of romantic attachment springing from some social gathering.
"If the Two of Clubs lies in a spread in which Diamonds predominate, the acceptance of this invitation promised financial rewards. Should the Ten of Spades block the path of the Two of Clubs, the Querent should be warned that the acceptance of the invitation may have unpleasant results and that refusal may be advisable. When Hearts predominate in the spread, the Two of Clubs suggests that this invitation will open a path to many things which the Querent has long dreamed. The presence of other Clubs close to the Two hints at gaiety, pleasure and social activity which result from the acceptance of the casual invitation."
Third Card:
The Joker
"The Joker was originally 'The Fool' of the Tarot cards. He represents a reversal of conventional standards, the independent spirit who walks alone, complete within himself, lacking all fear, guided by forces of nature and arcane wisdom.
"In material affairs the Joker may stand for unconsidered actions, folly and eccentricity but, in spiritual matters, he represents originality, audacity and venturesome quest. It is said by the Gypsies that he 'possesses the foolishness of God which is greater than the wisdom of men.'
"When the Joker appears in the middle of the spread, the indication is that the Querent has attained in some degree, or seeks to attain, freedom from physical restraints, grandeur of vision and the superior wisdom which men term folly. He is no longer bound by conventions and he has rid himself of pettiness, jealousy and covetousness so that he rises above human tragedy, pain or adversity to find a perfect unity of mind and spirit.
"Obviously only on he rarest of occasions can such perfection be achieved. The presence of the Joker does not represent an accomplished fact, but brings to the Querent's recognition the tremendous spiritual forces with which he is surrounded. It highlights his aspirations to adapt himself to a mode of life in keeping with his noblest instincts.
"Inevitably he will find himself bound by earthly restrictions, the nature of which may be indicated by the cards which adjoin the Joker. "When the Joker appears in the upper left wing of the spread, the indication is that the Querent will be faced with a choice of rejecting worldly goods to attain spiritual freedom, or of accepting material restrictions in order to assume social responsibilities.
"On the lower wings of the spread, the Joker is likely to relate to more specific situations wherein the Querent may act in accordance with his highest ideals or may compromise with his conscience for personal profit, social acceptance or other practical reasons.
"The Joker is also a warning that all is not as it seems, that there are hidden meanings beneath the obvious messages which can be read in the cards. Where the Joker appears, the Reader must take especial care in interpreting the spread and beware of pitfalls wherein a literal reading of the card may lead to a reversal of truth. The Joker is a card of duality that tends to shroud the future in mystery.
"(Caution to the Reader: It may be advisable for the relatively inexperienced Reader to omit any Jokers from the spread as its appearance complicates the reading. Also, care should be taken not to introduce a Joker into a used pack of cards because its relatively untouched surface may tempt the Reader or the Querent to select it when otherwise it would be rejected.)"
My interpretation: The Querent has significant artistic talent and if he gets into an industrious frame of mind and a fortuitous circle of friends it may work itself into a lucrative career simply by doing what he loves. The Joker, and especially the fact that one follows another in this spread and seemingly cross cancel the dubious intent inherent when a long Joker appears, could mean the difference between a dream fulfilled or lost, seeing as the two different appearances such a yin and yang or life and death approach to things. Seeing as the Querent is at the age when such things matter exponentially, he would be wise to follow his passion in the arts to wherever they may take him. If he fails it won't be for a lack of wont.
Fourth Card:
"The three cards in the upper right wing (number 4 [L], 8 [C], 12 [R]) indicate the course into which the Querent's life would normally flow unless checked by some positive action on his part."
The Joker
"The Joker was originally 'The Fool' of the Tarot cards. He represents a reversal of conventional standards, the independent spirit who walks alone, complete within himself, lacking all fear, guided by forces of nature and arcane wisdom.
"In material affairs the Joker may stand for unconsidered actions, folly and eccentricity but, in spiritual matters, he represents originality, audacity and venturesome quest. It is said by the Gypsies that he 'possesses the foolishness of God which is greater than the wisdom of men.'
"When the Joker appears in the middle of the spread, the indication is that the Querent has attained in some degree, or seeks to attain, freedom from physical restraints, grandeur of vision and the superior wisdom which men term folly. He is no longer bound by conventions and he has rid himself of pettiness, jealousy and covetousness so that he rises above human tragedy, pain or adversity to find a perfect unity of mind and spirit.
"Obviously only on he rarest of occasions can such perfection be achieved. The presence of the Joker does not represent an accomplished fact, but brings to the Querent's recognition the tremendous spiritual forces with which he is surrounded. It highlights his aspirations to adapt himself to a mode of life in keeping with his noblest instincts.
"Inevitably he will find himself bound by earthly restrictions, the nature of which may be indicated by the cards which adjoin the Joker. "When the Joker appears in the upper left wing of the spread, the indication is that the Querent will be faced with a choice of rejecting worldly goods to attain spiritual freedom, or of accepting material restrictions in order to assume social responsibilities.
"On the lower wings of the spread, the Joker is likely to relate to more specific situations wherein the Querent may act in accordance with his highest ideals or may compromise with his conscience for personal profit, social acceptance or other practical reasons.
"The Joker is also a warning that all is not as it seems, that there are hidden meanings beneath the obvious messages which can be read in the cards. Where the Joker appears, the Reader must take especial care in interpreting the spread and beware of pitfalls wherein a literal reading of the card may lead to a reversal of truth. The Joker is a card of duality that tends to shroud the future in mystery.
"(Caution to the Reader: It may be advisable for the relatively inexperienced Reader to omit any Jokers from the spread as its appearance complicates the reading. Also, care should be taken not to introduce a Joker into a used pack of cards because its relatively untouched surface may tempt the Reader or the Querent to select it when otherwise it would be rejected.)"
Fifth Card:
King of Hearts
"The King of Hearts represents a man of boundless good will and integrity. He is straightforward, dependable and mild-tempered. Outwardly he is uncomplicated and frequently conceals his feelings with gruffness; often he is inarticulate, his kindness being shown by deeds rather than words. Because of this, he may be regarded as insensitive and incapable of understanding the more intricate personalities of others.
"When the Querent is a woman or a young man, the King of Hearts may appear as a father image or the symbol of authority. He is the solid rock to which their lives can be anchored. While the King of Hearts usually represents an older man, this is not so much a matter of age as maturity of judgment, tolerance and wisdom.
"The male Querent who finds the King of Hearts in the middle of the spread may have such a disposition or he may aspire to develop the exterior calm and other characteristics which he admires in some older and more experienced man.
"The female Querent, in the middle of whose spread the King of Hearts occurs, will find that her life is, or can be, intimately interwoven with such a man. He may be husband, father, devoted admirer or even, in some cases, a loving son.
"When the King of Hearts appears in the upper left-hand wing, the indication is that such a man will enter the Querent's life in the not-too-distant future. The Querent will have the choice of accepting this man's aid and loyalty, which may be couple by restraints and obligations, or of rejecting him.
"When the King of Hearts appears in the lower wings of the spread, he is more likely to be a man who will enter the Querent's life temporarily, but he may be instrumental in altering the entire life pattern. Often he is a man in a position of authority. He may pave the way for business promotion, sit in judgment of the Querent, or act as mentor or guide in domestic of social situations. He may provide financial assistance or emotional ballast in periods of stress.
"The King of Hearts' outer calm may be misleading. He is often far more complicated than he appears. However, his lack of guile and his tendency to trust others may prevent his success in business or finance. He is admirably suited to teaching, judiciary posts, the ministry or any position which requires unswerving honesty, restraint and considered judgment.
"Where the King of Hearts lies beside a Jack - especially if the Querent is a woman - the indication is that the woman is seeking to instill strength of character, courage and a sense of responsibility in some younger person. This being so, inevitably the woman possesses some of the admirable characteristics attributed to this card. It may also be suggested that she should find some older man, symbolized by the King of Hearts, to guide and assist her.
"The King of Hearts is rarely of a creative turn of mind, but he will possess a love of beauty and will find joy in simple things.
"In all other suits but Hearts, marriage between the King and Queen of the same suit is likely to be disastrous. But the King and Queen of Hearts are admirably mated. Each will give to the other absolute love and trust and, while neither may recognize the subtleties of the other's nature, their lives will be rich and full in reciprocated love."
Sixth Card:
Four of Diamonds
"The Four of Diamonds betokens concrete, measurable success in terms of finances, business or professional status. This is not a card of sudden fortune, good luck or sweeping changes. Instead it marks an advance earned by merit or hard work. This forward step may seem to have little importance in itself, but it will lay a foundation on which a series of other advances may be laid. The Querent may be inclined to dismiss his accomplishments as trifling, but actually it can bring him deeper satisfactions than he would achieve through more rapid progress towards his goals."
My interpretation: The Querent, again is shown here perseverance towards his passions will be rewarded. The force behind the Joker suggests that it is well-within his realm of possibility if he pursues that which he loves. A father figure will lend support in that direction. Though his interests in that field will be middling his affection for the Querent will be the guiding force.
Seventh Card:
"The three cards in the upper left wing (number 13 [L], 9 [C], 5 [R]) offer the Querent an alternate route which he may follow if he so desires. This wing designates possibilities which are open to him. Whether this alternate route is desirable or one which will be dangerous to him depends upon the cards themselves."
Nine of Diamonds
"The Nine of Diamonds is a card of conflicting meanings.
"Traditionally, it has been the card of wish fulfillment.
"In Gypsy lore, however, it represents deceit, treachery, misrepresentation and danger.
"It has been associated with the moon whose pale light masks the truth and gives answers which, while literally true, are misleading.
"Thus the Querent who approaches the arcane symbols of the cards to present a wish that is selfish, trivial or motivated by greed or vengeance may find his wish granted in a literal sense, only to have it rebound upon him disadvantageously. Like the ancient oracles, the cards, when flaunted, tend to mislead those who mock them.
"On the other hand, where the Querent approaches the ancient symbols which the cards depict with respect, and his wishes conform to acceptable patterns of arcane law, no misdirection will occur. The truth will lie in the spread, but no single card will give a 'yes' or 'no' answer. The Nine of Diamonds is a challenge to the Reader's intuitive knowledge, his extra-sensory powers and his skill as a diviner.
"Even when the Querent has been discouraged from making a concrete wish, he usually approaches the cards in the hope that some perplexing problem will be solved, some high ambition will reach fruition or, at least, that he will be given assurance of happiness, success or good fortune. The Nine of Diamonds gives cognizance to the wish and indicated that in some degree it will be fulfilled. However, it does not promised that this will come about in the pattern which the Querent foresees, nor does it guarantee that the wish will being satisfaction or happiness to the Querent.
"The cards can guide the Reader in two ways. First, he must note the position of the Nine of Diamonds in the spread. If it lies in the middle, the indication may be that the wish is either pressing, or of supreme importance to the Querent. If it lies in the upper right wing, the indication is that the wish will be fulfilled in the natural course of events. If it lies in the upper left-hand wing, the fulfillment of the wish is possible if the Querent will reject his current pattern of life. If it appears in the lower left-hand wing, the wish is likely to be incidental to more important factors in the Querent's life. If it is on the lower right-hand wing, outside forces beyond the Querent's control will be the decisive factors. If the Nine of Diamonds lies on the outer edges of the spread, the indication is that the wish will eventually be fulfilled but only after many delays or disappointments.
"The absence of the Nine of Diamonds is not a denial of the wish. Instead in indicates that no clear-cut answer regarding the wish can be given to the Querent. When the Nine of Diamonds is absent but the Nine and Ace of Spades occur in the spread, usually there is a direct negation of the wish. However, if the Nine of Hearts appears in the company of the Nine of Spades or the Ace of Spades, the indication is that, although he wish will not be fulfilled, the Querent will, in the end, be glad that this is so.
"Where both the Nine of Diamonds and the Nine of Hearts appear in the spread, there is a promise of happiness and good fortune which will extend far beyond the wish. This combination of cards indicates a heightened awareness of life's pleasures, the gift of inward vision which add fresh depths of understanding and a joyous frame of mind that can sweep away misfortunes."
Eighth Card:
Jack of Diamonds
"The Jack of Diamonds represents an individual who is at the crossroads of life. If the card appears in the middle of the spread this person may be the Querent or another individual who is, or will shortly be, dependent upon him for advice or guidance.
"While the Jack of Diamonds is usually thought of as a young person, this is not necessarily so. However, he or she will be an individual torn with inner conflict, temporarily indecisive, who outer appearance may be misleading.
"This person may be or either sex. Outwardly he may appear brash, self-assertive or overconfident, but inwardly he is seeking new patterns of life. He will be caught between cynicism and idealism. He will tend to conceal his ambitions, his visions and his love of beauty for fear of ridicule or adverse criticism.
"This is a person of considerable talent who needs warm friendships and spiritual guidance, but who is likely to react to criticism by flying into a temper or rejecting the individual whom he feels misunderstand him. He is given to outwardly thoughtless actions, some of which may seem foolhardy or even cruel. Actually he is testing himself and others, seeking to build up confidence by departing from routine or the conventions.
"The Jack of Diamonds is linked in Gypsy lore with 'The Hanging Man.' This is never a card of death, but indicates an individual who is 'upside down,' who is suspended between the realities of life and visions and ambitions which he has not been able to clarify. He is inverted, in a condition contrary to that in which most people are found. What he says and does must frequently be interpreted backwards, for he is striving for a wisdom which he has not yet attained.
"His position is a precarious one, for in rejecting the conventional paths he 'may walk in all things contrary to the world.' Thus he can expect to meet outspoken antagonism and even persecution which may crush his spirit and deprive the world of the good he may do.
"Any attempt to force him into conventional patterns will be destructive. However, he can be directed towards more concrete goals and a balance which will help him to achieve his ambitions. His recognition that idealism still exists in others may establish a sympathetic relationship so that he no longer feels that he walks alone. Unbeknownst to himself he is seeking perfect attunement with the life forces, and his confusion lies in the imperfections which he sees about him."
Ninth Card:
Nine of Spades
"Traditionally the Nine of Spades spells catastrophe. It is linked with the collapse of the Tower of Babel, the stroke of lightning, the swift destructive forces of evil, the overthrow of long-established patterns of living and the necessity to abandon well-laid plans.
"This, however, is only partly true.
"The Nine of Spades indicates changes through unexpected and unpredictable sources. But it may also destroy outworn patterns and free the Querent from the chains of customs which have bound him for so long that he has grown unaware of their weight and the restrictions which they impose upon him.
"The danger lies, not in the destruction of that which is old, but in the failure to prepare for that which is new. The Nine of Spades, when found in the middle of the spread, is a clear-cut warning that the Querent should broaden his horizons, seek out new friends, accept new ideas. He should move forward into life instead of retreating, for the past cannot be recaptured. The severance of old bonds may be painful, but the future lies ahead, uncharted, with myriad routes which the Querent may explore.
"The Nine of Spades is a card of fear, but fear that may be overcome. In the youthful Querent it may mark the first tenuous steps in leaving the shelter of family life. In the older Querent it may indicate the breaking up of the home, the loss of security and a radical revision of his life plan. Where card appears in a prominent position in the spread, the Querent should be advised to seek out new interests. It may be wise for him to turn his back deliberately on the past and to make radical departures from his routine of life. He should voluntarily cast off old prejudices and habits of thought which impede his progress. To continue without change may be calamitous.
"On the other hand, if the Nine of Spades appears in either of the left-hand wings, he has a choice of maintaining his present course of life or altering it. The cards which accompany the Nine in the wing should guide the Reader in assessing the desirability of change."
My interpretation: The Querent, like most people, is offered several roads in life. While his passions might bring him personal happiness that doesn't always lead to success. Just because his passion is in the arts it doesn't forge his only road to personal fulfillment. He could pursue a career outside of his passions as a means to supplement the other. Disaster awaits the person who knows what he wants but doesn't know how to achieve it. As the Querent is young he is approaching such a crossroad. He may venture down both forks of the road to test their likability before settling on a permanent pathway or may be content in spending time on various roads for a period of time or long durations as suit his wont.
Tenth Card:
"The three cards in the lower left wing (numbers 14 [L], 10 [C], 6 [R]) are generally guide posts which will assist the Querent in making his decisions. However, where the Querent is elderly, or past middle age, this wing is likely to represent elements in the past which affect his present or future circumstances. In the youthful Querent, these cards are more likely to forecast future events and offer advice as to how to prepare for them."
Ace of Hearts
"The Ace of Hearts is a card of pleasure. It promises joy, merriment, love and fertility. However, when badly placed in the spread, it can be a warning of dissipation, waste, and a sacrifice of spiritual values for transitory pleasure.
"Like all Aces, it is a card of explosive force. It may predict strong, romantic attachment, birth or re-birth of spiritual faith and joy.
"When found in the middle of the spread, the joy will be an integral part of the Querent's personality. If there are a number of face cards or tens in the spread, the Querent will have the opportunity for new, varied and pleasurable social contacts. He will be the hub of festivities and he will possess friends whose regard for him is much greater than he realizes.
"If the Ace of Hearts is flanked by Clubs, the joy is likely to be more subdued, to be accompanied by peace and quiet joy. Where there is a preponderance of Diamonds in the spread, there is a promise of business success and increased satisfaction in work.
"When the Ace of Hearts lies in the lower left wing of the spread, the indication is that the Querent is an object of love, adulation or devotion of which he is not aware, or which he does not reciprocate. Especially where the central cards are Spades, the Querent may feel himself unloved because he has not taken time to cultivate the people around him or has failed to do so through shyness, cynicism, preoccupation with personal affairs or because he has underestimated his own capacity to win the love of others.
"Whenever the Ace of Hearts appears it should be accepted as a challenge to share joy with others. It indicates that the Querent has not taken full advantage of the gifts with which he has been endowed.
"Traditionally, the Ace of Hearts is the card of young lovers and gives promise of marriage and children. However, this is too literal a concept. Love has many facets. It is the unifying force that draws people together in happiness. It is interesting to note that in early Tarot cards, love was depicted in a three-fold pattern: joy in one's self, love of another and the outward spreading of the love to enfold many others. Only when love contains all three of these aspects is it complete.
"Where the Ace of Hearts dominates the pack, the Querent should be advised to extend his circle of friends. He is gifted in bringing to the surface the latent good in others. He should do well in social work, the ministry, teaching any other business or profession which brings him into contact with large numbers of people.
"When the Ten of Spades stands between the Ace of Hearts and a face card, the indication is that a barrier exists which prevents a satisfying relationship with another person but that the barrier can be swept aside. The Reader should advise the Querent to give serious thought to this problem, for its satisfactory solution will add to his own happiness.
"When the Nine of Spades lies beside the Ace of Hearts or blocks one of the wings, the Querent should be warned that a situation which imperils his happiness exists. Perhaps his joy has blinded him so that he has given unwitting offense to others or failed to take safeguards to protect himself from misfortune. If this is so, he would be wise to make a sober appraisal of his situation to assure a more permanent happiness."
Eleventh Card:
Ace of Diamonds
"The Ace of Diamonds is commonly thought to represent money. Actually, thus is a debasement of its original meaning. The Ace of Diamonds is the card of magic or wizardry. Inasmuch as magic and science were synonymous in arcane lore, the Ace of Diamonds may represent mathematical knowledge, engineering skill or a bent towards sciences such as astronomy, biology, archaeology and especially architecture.
"Arcane knowledge also informs us that the seat of magic lies in the home. The true magician was a 'builder of houses.' The Ace of Diamonds is a card that represents constructive power. Through the centuries the spiritual wisdom attributed to the magician was gradually reduced to the chicanery of the juggler, the individual who could keep many balls in the air at the same time, who depended upon trickery to bedazzle and bewilder those about him.
"The true magician is a builder of character. He transmits knowledge from higher sources. His influence does not lie in trickery but in his capacity to understand and interpret the life forces which surround him.
"The Ace of Diamonds is not a card of ease, contentment or luxury, as sometimes supposed. It represents an unceasingly restless spirit and is the emblem of intellectual curiosity, energy and a dissatisfaction with life as it is, coupled with a desire to attain lofty objectives which will benefit mankind.
"Because the original Tarot cards have been truncated into the current 52-card pack, the Ace of Diamonds represents a large range of meaning. At its best the presence of this card can indicate a selfless nobility of spirit dedicated to the welfare of humanity. At the opposite range of possibilities lies the self-seeking individual, clever and ruthless, able to turn every situation to his own advantage. Therefore, the Reader must proceed with extreme caution when the Ace of Diamonds is prominent in the spread.
"The promise of creative power us present and, to the best of his knowledge, the Reader should guide the Querent into channels through which the greatest benefits may be derived from his talents. The youthful Querent should be encouraged to explore fields of science about which he is uninformed for her may find in such areas an absorbing lifetime interest.
"The female Querent's 'magical powers' may lie within the home. By nature she is skilful organizer and may have the unrecognized capacity to influence others, especially in encouraging and developing the character, personality and skills of the young. She is an excellent teacher, but should be warned against a tendency to stress success instead of genuine accomplishment.
"Where the Ace of Diamonds appears prominently in the spread of the adult male Querent, the indication is that he will soon have an opportunity to use his organizational skills to advantage. The 'house' which he builds may be a business structure, the reorganization of a department, the amalgamation of companies or advancement of scientific knowledge.
"When the Ace of Diamonds appears in the upper left wing of the spread, the Querent should be alerted to keep his eyes open for an opportunity which offers, or appears to offer, high advantage to him. Without this forewarning the opportunity may escape his notice. However, if the Nine of Spades, Ten of Spades or Seven of Spades lies to the left of the Ace of Diamonds, he should be advised to proceed slowly lest some precipitate action on his part bring about a catastrophe.
"When the Ace of Diamonds appears on the upper right wing of the spread, the indication is that the Querent has either already embarked on some venturous plan or will do so shortly. In such case, the other cards on the wing should be examined with care. If the Two of Spades lies to the left of the Ace of Diamonds, there is a warning of delay, If the Ten of Spades lies to the right of the Ace of Diamonds, the Querent should be advised to consider other patterns of procedure. On the other hand, if Hearts or Clubs lie in close juxtaposition to the Ace of Diamonds, the promise is that some plan will have a happy and fruitful issue.
"Inherent in the Ace of Diamonds is an irrevocable force. The Querent who seizes the opportunities offered by the Ace may find his life patterns changed. Usually these opportunities include financial benefits. However, embracing them may mean the sacrifice of values which, in the long run, are more deeply cherished. The Reader may find indication in the spread that a total absorption in some project may lead to losses in other areas. Where this is so, this possibility should be drawn to the attention of the Querent."
Twelfth Card:
Seven of Spades
"The Seven of Spades is a card of division. It indicates partial success in the plans or aspirations of the Querent. It is also a warning of unexpected turns and twists of fate. Where the Seven of Spades appears, the Querent may find the objectives which he has successfully achieved do not bring expected satisfaction and rewards! The Querent should be advised to re-evaluate his plans and to view them with greater objectivity. The pathway ahead is, in all likelihood, strewn with more difficulties than he realizes. He must accept setbacks but, if he can weather these disappointments, he can achieve some of his goals. He should be cautioned not to give up too easily. Above all he should not act in pique in such a way that he destroys future opportunities. The Reader should remind him, in as tactful a way as possible, that success which comes too easily loses it meaningfulness, while success which comes after many hardships and sacrifices gives enduring pleasure."
My interpretation: Dissipation and force. What could evoke such polar extremes other than love? If the Querent is unsure of where his future lies in regards to a significant other she/he might be within his/her midst hiding in plain sight. This spread suggests as much though the love may not be reciprocated by the Querent or perhaps he may have simply overlooked this person. There's also the prospect the it's merely be a warning sign to love one's self a bit more in the face of self-doubt. What's not in doubt seems to be the Ace of Hearts in conjunction with a spread dominated by Diamonds which reiterates that the Querents future prospects in work and career are outstanding given that he doesn't become lackadaisical.
The Ace of Diamonds suggests a powerful impulse towards goals of great importance to the Querent. Whether this bears personal growth or success or both is entirely within his grasp. That much can be said of just about anybody but since the symbolism of the cards is to be respected, if not believed, he would be apt to accept this as a self-repeating sign of sorts. I am obligated to suggest the noble path to his goals lest the Querent falls into self-ruin. Which sometimes means only obtaining some objectives without sullying his soul if the choice demands both.
The Seven of Spades reiterates the mantra of the Ace of Hearts that a lack of willful effort could be disastrous as it generally tends to be in every aspect of life.
Thirteenth Card:
"The three cards in the lower right wing (numbers 7 [L], 11 [C], 15 [R]) usually represent specific forces at work outside of the Querent. While these forces cannot be controlled, the Querent can adapt himself to them, thus utilizing them for his own advantage."
Ten of Diamonds
"The Ten of Diamonds is represented by the Hermit's cell. It presages confinement or material bondage, In Gypsy lore, the Ten of Diamonds was often presented as a card of wealth which did not bring happiness. However, it has a broader meaning than this. It warns of too great a preoccupation with making money or seeking material success at the expense of spiritual neglect. It may also advise change, not so much of place, but of attitudes. Where the Ten of Diamonds appears, the Querent may be bogged down by boredom, routine, indifference or a lassitude of the spirits. He may feel that circumstances hem him in and that adventures of the mind and spirit are dreams which can no longer be achieved.
"Inherent in the Ten of Diamonds is the means of escape from the narrow confines of daily life. There is the promise of a richer and more rewarding future if the Querent will raise his eyes toward wider horizons. The Ten of Diamonds warns of confinement or futility in which the restraining walls may be illusionary. Habit, self-satisfaction, fear of change or listlessness may impoverish the questing spirit and deprive the Querent of many joyous experiences.
"Again in Gypsy lore, the Ten of Diamonds offers a choice of a journey over land or over water. This is not to be accepted in too literal a sense, although the Ten of Diamonds often indicates that an opportunity to travel is close at hand. The primary indication, however, is a choice between the plodding land route which represents financial gain, economic security and acceptance of a limited life, or of travel by water which symbolizes purity of thought and inner vision.
"When the Ten of Diamonds appears in the middle of the spread, there is an indication of world-weariness, cynicism and an acceptance of a pattern of life that brings creature-comforts but lacks deeper satisfaction. There is an indication that a richer life is at hand but that the Querent must throw off his acceptance of conditions as they exist and prepare to take active steps in order to grasp opportunities which will be open to him.
"The cards surrounding the Ten of Diamonds should offer clues to the nature of the way in which monotony may be broken so that swift change can take place. It should be stressed that the Querent need not turn his back on his present mode of life, but he should achieve new vision to guide him to increased enjoyment.
"On the lower wings of the spread, the Ten of Diamonds is more circumscribed. When so placed, it is likely to mean a pleasurable interlude from everyday living. This may come about through unexpected money which will ease economic worries, through travel or from an experience which will create new areas of interest. The warning, however, is implicit that the opportunity must be seized, or else the humdrum world will close in to form a hermit's cell.
Fourteenth Card:
Eight of Diamonds
"The Eight of Diamonds is a card of balance, indicating a combination of skill in financial affairs and a spiritual insight which will prevent undue stress upon material success. Thus card represents a practical point of view in which all theories are weighed and tested objectively. It is a card of moderation, tolerance and balanced strength.
"Where the Eight of Diamonds appears in the middle of the spread, it is likely to indicate the character and personality of the Querent. In the Tarot cards, such an individual is symbolized by a figure standing with one foot on land and the other in the water. This is an indication of the person's capacity to cope with practical matters without loss of vision or idealism.
"He may be strongly attracted to chemistry or other work which involves laboratory experiments. He can also be invaluable in government service or in executive posts in which careful decisions must be weighed. The female Querent should be capable in family budgeting, a thoughtful mother and considerate wife.
"When the Eight of Diamonds appears in the upper wings of the spread, the indication is that a situation will arise in which careful judgments should be made. There is a warning to beware of impetuosity and not to take things at face value. If the Eight of Diamonds lies in juxtaposition to a face card, the indication is that it will be advisable to consult some authoritative person and to obtain additional information before some decision is rendered.
"If the Eight of Diamonds occurs in a spread in which Diamonds predominate, the Querent should be warned against making judgments solely for monetary reasons lest he suffer from loss of more enduring values if he does. Where the Nine or Ten of Spades follows the Eight of Diamonds, there is a possibility that the Querent will be tempted into bad investments by the promise of quick wealth. He should be advised to double-check any financial venture in which he may become involved.
"The presence of Clubs in proximity to the Eight of Diamonds indicates steady gain, tranquility and the absence of pressing economic problems."
Fifteenth Card:
Jack of Clubs
"The Jack of Clubs usually represents a young person who is hard-working, honest and sincere. This card rarely represents the Querent but someone who is devoted to him. To determine the sex of the Jack of Clubs, the Reader should follow the direction of the eyes portrayed in the card. If the eyes point toward the middle of the spread, the young person will be of the opposite sex to the Querent. If the eyes point away from the middle of the spread, the person will be of the Querent's own sex.
"There is a suggestion that the Querent may underestimate the Jack of Clubs, considering him naive, dull or lacking in gaiety. In the eyes of the female Querent, the Jack may appear in the guise of a lacklustre suitor or unprepossessing female friend. For the male Querent, the Jack may be a girl whom he knows well but whom he has not considered in a romantic light; or a steady, reliable male companion whom he takes for granted.
"Actually, the Jack of Clubs will prove a tower of strength in times of crisis. He will be loyal, generous and self-sacrificing. He may possess many undeveloped or unsuspected talents beneath a rather commonplace exterior. Because he is content to play 'second fiddle' to the Querent, he may deliberately conceal certain skills and aptitudes to make the Querent appear in the best possible light.
"The Jack of Clubs may act as a rein on the Querent, checking his impulsive actions and guiding him towards his highest possible achievement. As a whole, the Jack of Clubs counsels wisely and is rich in common sense but his caution and protectiveness may become irksome and be resented. This is especially true since the Jack of Clubs is frequently lacking in tact. His natural honesty prevents him from the use of guile or subterfuge.
"The presence of the Jack of Clubs in the spread is an indication that there is someone close to the Querent whom he does not fully appreciate. This person will promote the Querent's interests and work without remittance or expectation of reward to help him in the attainment of his ambitions.
"While the Jack of Clubs is described as young, the adjective should not be taken too literally. The word 'innocent' may be substituted for 'young.' The Jack of Clubs is usually found in the same age group as the Querent but inasmuch as he plays a secondary role, he may appear more inexperienced or ingenuous than he really is.
"The fact that the Jack of Clubs makes his appearance in the spread indicates that the Querent should avoid a one-sided relationship. Cultivation of a devoted friend will give him added stability, tolerance and a rewarding experience. The suggestion is also present that a crisis may occur in which this friendship will be a decisive factor."
My interpretation: reiterated again is the need for balance. The Querent's journey rest on the fulcrum of whether he wishes for personal happiness over success. With that knowledge in hand and the power of will behind him there is the possibility of a happy meshing of the two into a workable future. The prospect of the Querent coming into a small sum of money is repeated here as well. He won't become rich overnight but it could be the impetus to putting him on that path if he so chooses.
The balance suggested in the Eight of Diamonds furthers the idea of modest goals that keep in line with the Querent's happiness. The Jack of Clubs directly after the Eight of Diamonds reinforces such a notion and suggest the steady over the all-at-once mantra of fools and madmen.
The Jack of Club introduces a young person into the mix who could help him along in his plans, if he allows them to. It could be a romantic interest or a friend. That the Jack is looking away from the spread suggests a male in the Querent's life who he underestimates the value of but who could become one of his greatest supporters and cheerleaders if allowed to. The Querent is warned to avoid one-sided relationships, even when he is the benefactor. Which may be a sign for him to give more credit to an underappreciated person in his life.
"3 Aces = Opportunities, movement, fresh interest, success beyond expectation in some enterprise.
(a) Lacking the Ace of Spades, these interests promise great pleasure, new friends, joy without regret."
"A preponderance of DIAMONDS marks a preoccupation with money, business, success and prestige."
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