AUTHOR’S NOTE: Several years ago I adapted the 21-card Romany spread for use with the seven planets of classical astrology and came up with a dual-axis developmental profile for both character analysis and associated timing. All seven columns can be used for a complete personality study, or only those that apply to specific circumstances can be addressed as I did in the example reading below.

Although it was developed for tarot, it is equally effective for other types of cartomancy. Since I created it, I decided that the past isn’t really relevant in this kind of reading, which is more about “being and becoming,” so I recently altered the model to look only at the present, the near future and the longer-range status. At some point I will re-do the graphic.

In this example reading I asked what a particular individual’s feelings, thoughts and desires are now and how they will evolve in the future regarding a developing situation. Although I seldom use any form of cartomancy for psycho-spiritual readings, and especially not for mind-reading attempts, what someone else thinks, feels and wants is one of the most frequently-asked questions across all forms of divination. Since I believe the cards can answer any question if it is phrased properly, here I’m following my own advice.

For a little more detail, the “Mars” column can be included to project what the subject is likely to get out of the matter by taking action. There is an old astrological aphorism that states “Mars goes out and gets what Venus wants,” but for the purpose of this example I chose to stay with a 3×3 tableau.

Regarding the person’s emotional state over the span of time covered by this reading, it looks like they are currently feeling “on top of things” with few doubts or anxieties (KC). The impression of unreserved satisfaction will persist for the near future (4D), and over the long haul the subject should attract rewarding relationships due to this self-assured attitude (2H).

As for their thoughts on the matter, they are happy with their current state of financial security (10D), with near-term opportunities to expand it on the horizon (3C). Since the 9 of Diamonds is slightly more energetic than the 10C, this growth should pay off in the furtherance of a confident mindset over the longer run.

Total realization of the individual’s desires in the matter is less assured. The 5 of Spades implies that a separation of some kind with the risk of anger and loss is presently in the works or being contemplated. In the near future there may be arguments and disagreement or restlessness and discomfort (7C). But the eventual conclusion is that the individual will regain composure (JC), although perhaps not at the same level as before (JC compared to KC). Reading the KC, 3C and JC “on the diagonal” looks like the path of least resistance since it brings feelings, thoughts and desires into alignment over time (or maybe it’s just showing the effects of Viagra).

Except for the “Later” outlook, the Developmental Character Profile seems to go downhill across all parameters and time frames. Perhaps mental and emotional conviction will falter in the face of challenges to the individual’s sense of personal values (the realm of Venus). Only the long-term forecast settles out in reasonably good shape with the Jack of Clubs. But I suppose that conclusion is all most querents will want to hear; everything else is incidental to a happy ending.