Elements and Modes in Tarot Reading

AUTHOR'S NOTE: If there are any astrologers among my readers who were active during the era of New-Age metaphysical expansion, feel free to fact-check my historical observations. Having been there myself, this is how I remember it. Astrology uses a modal form of analysis: there are three quadriplicities (also known as modalities) - Cardinal, Fixed … Continue reading Elements and Modes in Tarot Reading

The Roads Not Taken (There Can Be Only One)

AUTHORS NOTE: In his famous poem, Robert Frost had two roads to choose from. Here I'm proposing four and using reversals to decide which ones should not be taken in favor of a more promising upright signpost pointing the way. Select a deck that has non-reversible card backs so you can discern orientation without turning … Continue reading The Roads Not Taken (There Can Be Only One)

A “Methodology Checklist” – Technique in a Nutshell

AUTHOR'S NOTE: I've written numerous essays on the subject of tarot techniques and methods, usually in the form of criticism aimed at those practices of modern "pop-metaphysics" that I find especially pointless or unfounded. This time I decided to turn it into an exhaustive but simplified "question-and-answer" checklist that lays out my preferred approach and … Continue reading A “Methodology Checklist” – Technique in a Nutshell

“Playing the Victim” – Self-Inflicted Pain in RWS Imagery

AUTHOR'S NOTE: I wasn't aware that there is a modern interpretation of the Waite-Smith 8 of Swords that describes the person in the picture as "faking" the distress or intentionally "self-victimizing," as in willingly submitting to what looks like abusive treatment. It reminds me of the hateful, misogynistic affront to rape victims and targets of … Continue reading “Playing the Victim” – Self-Inflicted Pain in RWS Imagery

What Happened to Glenn? – A “World of Hurt” Missing Person Reading

UPDATE: On March 15, 2025, the body of Glenn Chranz was found in a wooded area roughly two miles due North of the Manchester, NH medical facility where Chranz was last seen alive. Police believe it had been covered in snow (see my "frozen to death" theory in the original text) and thawing conditions exposed … Continue reading What Happened to Glenn? – A “World of Hurt” Missing Person Reading

Reading the Signs: An Astro-Tarot Topical Forecasting Method

AUTHOR'S NOTE: This technique requires a natal horoscope for the querent; an astrological ephemeris for the year in question; and the Golden Dawn's Chaldean wheel of tarot-card correspondences. (See the graphic below). Due to the necessary preparation, it will not be suitable for most walk-in clients. More than one deck will be needed for this … Continue reading Reading the Signs: An Astro-Tarot Topical Forecasting Method