I’ve declared independence from positional layouts in Tarot spreads.
After more than 10 years of experimenting with hundreds of different Tarot spreads, of creating different spreads with different positional meanings, of trying to figure out why the card that represents the client’s past seems to hint towards their future, of trying to understand if the outcome card is really the outcome card, of confusing myself more than anyone, or anything else, could ever do…I’m done.
It feels so good to say those words! It feels so liberating to finally break free from positional layouts.
I’m done!
I’m done because Tarot spreads create unnecessary confusion, and I’m tired of having doubts. I’m done because despite what other people say, despite what you may have read, despite what apparently makes things easier, Tarot spreads simply counteract the effectiveness of a Tarot reading.
Does life really fall into neat sections? Does life really fall into simple categories? Can we really section someone’s life off so completely as to say, “this one card represents the past, and this one represents work, and this one represents relationships”?
Of course not. Life is far more complicated and subtle than any Tarot spread can accommodate.
Yes, we all have a section of our lives that is devoted to work, and another section devoted to relationships – but don’t the two inform each other? Doesn’t the past hint at the future, and the hopes/fears say something of the past? Don’t relationships in the workplace get equal status as the relationships outside of work?
Modern day lifestyles are far too complex to be adequately covered by a simple positional based layout.
Wait! What is a positional layout?
A positional layout is a Tarot spread that allocates “positions” and assigns those positions with a certain meaning. For example, a three card Tarot spread could be turned into a positional layout by allocating meaning to each position of the three cards. For instance, position one could represent the past, position two could represent the present and position three could represent the future.
Let’s create this example Tarot spread:
- Position one (past): Emperor
- Position two (present): 7 of Swords
- Position three (future): Page of Wands
Interpretation: In the past you were bullied at work; in the present people lie, and steal from you; in the future, you receive a letter that promises an opportunity to change your lifestyle (probably career related).
This is a fairly one dimensional Tarot reading. It doesn’t allow for multiple interpretations of the cards, which, as most of you will be aware of, is vital to the success of any Tarot reading.
Okay, let’s try and read these three cards without the use of positions.
Interpretation: A lack of trust has developed within the father/daughter dynamic of this family.
What’s the difference between the two?
One is very fixed in its approach, while the other is much more fluid, adaptable, and responsive.
One of the major problems with just using a Tarot spread that relies on fixed positions, is that the number of cards used is relatively small.
I regularly read Tarot spreads with more than 20-30 cards laid out in a line, none of which have been allocated a “position”. In my experience, the more cards you use, the more accurate the reading. The less cards you use, the more likely you are to doubt yourself, feel unsure of your interpretation, and also, feel compelled to double check your interpretation next to the one in the books.
Essentially, Tarot spreads that use a positional layout are often limited, and limiting, by the small number of Tarot cards they actually use.
I could go much further into explanations, but I think you get the point.
How I ditched Positional layouts
I’ve actually been experimenting with this over the last couple of years, phasing out positions instead of ditching the Tarot spread altogether. But the transition I’ve made is already well in progress, and I’m going to share with you some of the steps I took in phasing out “positional” layouts in Tarot spreads.
Here’s what to do:
- Start by doing nothing: The best way to phase out positions from your Tarot spreads is by doing nothing. If you use the Celtic Cross, keep using the Celtic Cross. If you use the Horseshoe Spread, keep using the Horseshoe Spread. The point is not to make drastic changes over night. By using the Tarot spread that you’re most comfortable with, you will be in a much more comfortable position to ditch the positional layout.
- Read the Tarot spread traditionally: Simply start by reading the Tarot cards as normal; use the positional meanings and make sure that you and the client are connecting and that the reading is going well.
- Get comfortable: As soon as you feel comfortable, as soon as you feel the reading is going well, as soon as you are ready to take a risk, drop the positional layout completely.
At this stage, I want you to imagine there are no positional meanings at all. This means, there is no “past” position, no “future” position, no “outcome” position, no “relationships” position, no um, nothing. Now, allow your mind to scan the cards. What can you see now that there’s no limitation, no imposed structure? - Look for patterns: Start looking for patterns. How many Trump cards are there? How many court cards are there? How many Pip cards are there? How do they interact without any positions to tell you which part indicates the future, and which part indicates the past?
- Remember, there can be multiple stories being told: Now that we are free from the constraints of a positional layout, we are free to trust our intuition. At this stage, allow your intuition to flow, you may be surprised at the multiple story lines you are able to interpret.
- Fear: If you get worried or nervous that you are losing your connection to the client, simply reapply the positions to your Tarot reading. That way, when things go wrong, you have a back up plan; a way to help you to re-establish a connection with your client.
- Use Elemental Dignities: One of the best techniques that I know of to help you read Tarot cards without having to rely on a positional layout, is Elemental Dignities. This technique works for two reasons. Firstly, it doesn’t depend on positions and secondly, it will teach you how irrelevant the Divinatory Definitions can be.
- Look at the direction the Tarot cards face: Another useful tip is to look at the direction the Tarot cards face. Does one card look like it’s moving towards another? Does a Court card look isolated? Does a card look like it’s trying to keep their eye on another card? Are they successful? How does this alter the dynamics of the Tarot reading?
I think those steps should help you break out of reading the Tarot using a positional based layout. The most important aspect of it is to remain with your favourite Tarot spread, and to switch back and forth between using the positional layout and using nothing but your intuition.
Will it work for everyone? Perhaps not in the short term (although everyone can do it – sometimes we have to take things slowly to allow our confidence to grow). If this sounds like you, don’t worry. Apply the above tips very gradually and don’t rush things. Relax, and enjoy the process and eventually it will all click into place.
How was I able to ditch positions?
I’m always open to experimentation, to try something new, to take a risk, to contradict myself and to allow myself to remain open to “possibilities”. For me, ditching positional layouts is all about realigning how I read Tarot cards to how I see life. I don’t see life as simple, easily compartmentalised, easily categorised, easily sectioned. I see it as something dynamic, flowing, unpredictable – where each element affects the whole. I simply don’t think that positional layouts accomplish this.
Where do we go from here?
Experiment with using positional and non-positional Tarot spreads.
Personally, I find non-positional spreads work the best. I don’t feel so constrained to read in a certain way, nor do I suffer the usual amounts of self-doubt that often accompany a positional based spread.
I suspect that self doubt arises, to a large extent, from the privileging of Divinatory Definitions as the primary method of interpretation. Not only is this simply not true, but it’s also the number one reason people suffer from issues of confidence.
Summary
Start by using the Tarot spread that you are most comfortable with. Gently start to interpret the cards without using the associated positions and gradually build things up from there. If, at any point, you need to use the positions, please do so. Part of the transition from positional to non-positional spreads is to remain with the Tarot spread you’re most comfortable with.
I already do this. Whats the next step?
The next step would be to abandon the Tarot spread completely. Instead, deal out the cards in a linear formation. I would recommend gradually increasing the amount of Tarot cards you’re using; aim for around 20/30 cards. By increasing the amount of Tarot cards you use, the more accurate the Tarot reading will become.
Do you agree with what I’ve written? Do you find positional layouts to be confusing? I’d love to hear your thoughts on this article. I’ll see you in the comments.
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Right on Doug!
Trying to impose one’s own view or structure onto the world of another is an exercise in futility.
Use the cards to see how the other person sees the world, not filtered through our own biases. Looked at the other way, by renouncing positional spreads we allow ourselves to see not only the strengths, weaknesses, hopes, fears, aspirations, and how much someone is living in the past or future, dependent on previous events, but also allow ourselves to learn something from those different views.
Given the chance, tarot cards are brilliant at giving an accurate representation of the life of the client, all you have to do is relax your grip and see where the ride takes you.
Paul
Hi Paul,
Thanks for dropping by
What an awesome point to make. Yes, I have also found myself learning through reading for others. It’s something that isn’t always talked about, but it certainly happens when no artificial positional based structure is placed over the cards.
LOL how true.
What a great article! If I hadn’t already ditched positional spreads, I’d be sure to do so after reading this.
I get much better readings without positions. It also makes reading the tarot more fun; I’m more engaged in the process. Sometimes I work for that intuition! But at the end of the day, I think it makes me a better reader.
I currently favor a line of five cards. When I want more depth, I do two lines of five, one over the other. I have techniques for grouping the cards to expand the combinations; these are based in cartomancy and Lenormand.
Hi Jason,
Thank you for your kind words
I’ve also found that it makes the Tarot much more fun. It keeps me engaged in the process, keeps me more creative, and opens me up to intuition in a way that positional based spreads just don’t do.
I imagine that applying techniques that you have adopted from cartomancy and Lenormand adds to the fun even more
Thanks for dropping by
Great idea! I’ve actually been thinking of doing this with the horseshoe spread, but I would like to keep the formation and also keep the top card as a significator. I was doing this spread the other night and was getting confused because when I looked at the spread, it was telling me something totally different than when I was looking at the cards and applying what the positions represented. Great post, Doug, as usual!
Hi Bobbie,
Thank you for your kind words. I’m glad you liked the post
Great idea! The key to ditching the positional layout of the Horseshoe spread is to stick with the Horseshoe spread. By laying out the cards in a way you’re comfortable with, by initially reading the cards using the positions of that spread, you will be in the right place to experiment with ditching the positions.
The fact that you’ve already noticed a conflict between your intuition and the positions tells me that you will be very successful with this technique. Go at your own pace and in time you will notice multiple story lines emerging from your Tarot readings
I rarely use spreads unless I’m looking for specific information eg a past life…
I generally use three cards in a line myself. I got in the habit of doing this after doing the Tarot Triplet exercise at Tarot For Life. I don’t use strict elemental dignitaries but I do look at the elements of the cards to give me the energy of the situation.
The combined energies can tell you a lot in itself. I also use rudimentary numerology to work out an overall card for the reading.
I find Druid Craft is a good deck for this combined reading technique, also Ciro Marchetti decks for their vivid imagery and use of colour.
The readings are more in depth and on the whole accurate with even just three cards because it forces you to look at the whole picture.
Hi Stacey,
Thanks for stopping by
Thanks for sharing some of your techniques. I especially like the use of numerology to discover, “an overall card for the reading”.
Excellent article (once again). I’ve been flirting with ditching positional spreads for about 18 months now and saying that I’m reading “gypsy style” when I do that. Then I see a spread that I think will be the end-all-be-all and try that for a while (most recently, the Horseshoe Spread as taught by The Tarot Lady). Most recent no-position spread is Catherine’s signature spread on Tarot Elements. However, I’ve never gone up to 20/30 cards. Thank you.
Hi Barbara,
LOL, I love that – “gypsy style”!
When I use 20/30 cards, I do use additional techniques to help me get into the reading should nothing just jump out at me straight away – card pairing is an example.
I also loved experimenting with the Tarot Elements signature spread.
Thanks for sharing
I agree: excellent article!
Like others I rarely use spreads as such, but more simply 3 cards in line. I do, however, often have troubles after pulling the cards because I’m stressing about the positions (i.e. is this past-present-future, body-mind-spirit, etc. etc.???).
I definitely will try this. Thank you, Douglas!
xxx
Hi Nina,
I’m glad you liked the article. I’d love to hear from you if this post helps, in some small way, to reduce the stress you can sometimes feel.
Thank you for your kind words
Thanks for this post. One of the reasons I’ve never practiced the celtic spread is because there are a lot of variation to the positions of the cards. I am afraid of reading the cards incorrectly. But the solution to this is applying my own positions to what is comfortable to me. It will just make it simpler and less complicated.
Hi AJ,
I’m glad this post has been able to help you tackle some of the bigger Tarot spreads. The Celtic Cross is a great spread but there are other spreads that are equally good. One such spread is the Horseshoe spread.
One possible approach would be to use another Tarot spread (like the Horseshoe) as a stepping stone to the Celtic Cross?
I think this is about you getting to a stage where you feel comfortable trusting your intuition.
If we take the Celtic Cross as an example, it really doesn’t matter what positions you apply to the cards (that’s why there are so many variations). I know it can appear a bit daunting at times but if you feel you want to try the Celtic Cross, don’t be put off by variations.
I think you’ve already got an excellent solution – select your own positions. Why not pick a couple of the variations that you like the best, then morph them into your own version. After you’ve done this, stick with the Celtic Cross for several months. Allow this spread to sink deep within your unconscious so that the level of connection you feel to the spread will start to deepen. Eventually, when you give Tarot readings, you won’t even be thinking about what position means what because your unconscious mind will be processing all that information, freeing your conscious mind to get on with the task of communicating with the client.
Thank you for sharing
Thanks for the tip! Ok, I will practice on the horse shoe spread first. Then when I’m comfortable, I will try the celtic cross.
I’m happy to say that my intuition is slowly developing. Before, I always check the little white book or my books after making my daily reading. But now, I just see them and look at what the picture is telling me. Thanks again!
Oh and I’m starting to work soon. I remembered the reading you told me when I got it… =D Later!
Hi AJ,
That’s great news about the job
Let me know how you get on with the horseshoe
I find that if you decide and hold firmly in your mind, what the positions of the Celtic Cross are, you will read them perfectly ;0)
I think e.g the reading of a subset of cards in “defined” positions and the use of the whole deck in e.g. the “Opening of the key” spread are rather like two end of a continuum. I suspect similar information can be extracted from either – In the right hands. But I learned quite quickly myself that, what I used to add as a summary or addendum, to readings, based on the elements, dignities, rank, number etc. so often proved to contain ALL that I had said before… But often far more concise and moreover independant of the constraints of spread, deck etc. I think this is the (general) way to go, but then I haven’t read seriously in while…
Hi Chris,
Thanks for dropping by
Interesting comment; especially the bit where you say, “I suspect similar information can be extracted from either – In the right hands.”
In a theoretical sense, you make a good point!!! If we look at things in this way, then it all comes down to the individual. Some people will read very well using positional spreads and other people will read very well using non-positional spreads. It’s really important to experiment in order to find out which one fits most comfortably.
A very cool observation. I’ve also found that reading without a positional based layout is a lot less “work” for me as a Tarot reader LOL
Doug this is a great post. I too have been pondering what I call the no spread spread…lol. I have been using it on and off since the beginning of my card use because it was suggested by MacBeth in the Frouds Faeries book. I love the freedom of it although I still do enjoy experimenting with spreads too.
I think one of the problems I have with positional spreads is that sometimes the cards do not seem to fit the position BUT might fit some other part of the reading…I do believe that positional spreads can be successful however part of the problem I experience…I have come to believe is that the spread is not a “signature one” for me. What I mean by that is a spread I have made my own…one I know backwards and forwards…one that my mind immediately recognizes and perhaps pre-recognizes (the intuition allows me to deal the cards into the right positions because it is sooo well known that it is a part of me.) When I use what I consider my signature spreads…I almost always get an accurate and meaningful reading. While it is fun to experiment….this is a reminder to me to use the three spreads that I am most comfortable and in tune with. WHEN I use one.
The Once Upon a Time Spread that I developed when the Fairy Tale Tarot came out is sort of a no spread spread but it does use the significator card. I like it a lot even though sometimes even with it the “timeline” blurs. I think it is because time is a constraint developed by human kind or at least the measurement of time is….I tend to believe things are kind of a two way street so a factor from the past may influence the present or future BUT the present and future could also be a “repeat” of the past so to speak…And then of course the future is always fluid and changes minute by minute.
I have grown tired of the three card spread…especially the past present future one because as you say…there’s not much depth there…I do like using 5-7 cards and honestly even though I have read with the Lenormand cards which call for rather large spreads…I simply can not at this time imagine using 20-30 tarot cards…oh dear me…the very thought staggers me…the confusion…I’m not ready for anything near that large. I know you say the larger number helps you clarify…but to me they seem to muddy and contradict….now I say that loosely because obviously the cards could be speaking of different life aspects and so therefore may not be contradictory at all….LOL.
I prefer to simply deal 5-7…or sometimes as many as 12 cards randomly, placing them however I want as I put them out…sometimes a few or in a row with random ones scattered in other spots….THEN…..BEFORE turning any cards over I look a the layout I have before me….what does it suggest? That card in the corner all by itself…is it perhaps a hidden aspect of self…or the sideways one a block…the three together a path etc…Whatever comes to mind I note in my mind…and then as I turn the cards IF they seem to speak in the way I originally considered….yes this is a block etc…then I use that in the reading…BUT if it doesnt make sense to me or something else seems to fit better than I go with that during the reading…It seems to work rather well and eases the stress of “making the cards fit the position” in some way.
Oh dear…a rather long comment but this is a topic quite interesting to me…I mean if intuition allows us to pick and interpret the cards than surely it can play a role in the placement of the cards.
Hi Ginger,
Thank you for your kind words
Great point! It’s very important to pick a spread you like, and stick with it. If you like the Celtic Cross, then stick with it; if you like the Horseshoe spread, then stick with it. Use only your chosen spread when practicing, or reading for others.
I was lucky really. I did this with out realising how helpful this was. I picked the Celtic Cross and read with it for years. I didn’t deviate. I then picked the Opening of the Key and read with that for years. In both cases I became very comfortable with using them.
The benefits of using only one spread, certainly in the beginning, is that it helps you form a foundation that does not change. Some days you’ll be reading well and other days you won’t be; but regardless of how you perform, the spread you use is your one constant – this never changes. The stability this creates will help you recognise what aspects of your Tarot readings need more practice.
Awesome!
Ah, good point. However, consider this – is there anyone you know who’s life does not contradict itself?
For instance, someone might be a responsible parent but an irresponsible friend, or they might get extremely angry when teaching someone how to drive, but could be gentle and patient when teaching someone mathematics. These fairly commonplace contradictions exist everywhere and are often reflected in a Tarot reading. I can’t tell you the amount of times clients will deny that their partner has any good qualities whatsoever – until they remember an event which illustrates the opposite of what initially thought.
Contradictions are a tough thing to understand. What has “meaning” in this sense, can never be fixed. It’s always withheld – there can be no “final” judgment.
I really like the system you have in place Ginger. It sounds like it allows you enough freedom to express your intuition (and feel confident doing so) whilst allowing you a fall back into “whatever fits”, which is the best way to read Tarot cards.
Great comment
Interesting article Doug,
I have to say I like positional definitions although I have read without them. I smiled at your interpretation of your example of past, present and future
because in those positions I could also see another interpretation more positive
Past Emperor – You have had in the past someone who has created stability and structure from which you can learn.
Present 7 Swords – You are now able to consider the consequences of any actions you may take before you take them. Perhaps helping you to decide on more innovative ways of expressing your actions.
Future – Page Wands You will be able in the future to express those innovative ideas into actions, that you can take forward to the next stage.
Positional definitions are not necessarily limiting, it depends on what you see in the cards I guess. But I also like free reading too.
Hi Helen,
Thank you for your kind words
LOL yeah, I guess my interpretation wasn’t really on the optimistic side
You gave a great reading
I take your point on board. I can certainly see how positional spreads can be equally as good as non-positional spreads. On a personal level I certainly read better without them. However, in the past I would frequently read the Tarot cards by switching between the two systems.
I have another slightly negative (…um, very negative) interpretation for you
Emperor (Past)/7 of Swords(Present)/ Page of Wands(Future)
A manager (Emperor) gets embroiled in office politics (7 of Swords) and ends up either quitting, being fired, or demoted (Page of Wands) LOL
LOL Doug!
I am soooo happy to see that I am not the only one…and that it had nothing to do with being new to tarot
You made my day !!!
I started a year ago to study tarot and after trying hard to use positional definitions without much success, I decided to go wild
Positional definitions feel for me like wearing a tailor made suit made for somebody else. Although it fits, it is not really comfortable and does not allow me to read freely.
Now I mostly use what I call the “The advice of the 3wise kings” spread, 3 cards that give me an answer to the question. Sometimes the 3 cards are somehow telling a story, most of the times they are giving individual advice/answer. In doubt, I pick one more card. At the end I use numerology to get to one card that I use as summary of the spread. It works pretty fine for me
Thanks for your blog
It is very inspiring 
Hi Reina,
Thanks for dropping by
I loved the way you described Positional definitions – “…feel for me like wearing a tailor made suit made for somebody else”
The way you approach the “3wise Kings” spread is really cool. I particularly like the way you use numerology. This is a technique that I use myself
I’m really glad you enjoyed the post and thank you so much for your kind words
Another really interesting post Doug. I have read with spreads and without over the years but find myself almost completely abandoning positional spreads these days. I find it allows so much more freedom and flexibility and lets the ideas flow back and forth with the cards interacting with each other instead of them being read in a more individual and isolated way.
I do feel that spreads will always have a place and I do have some favourites but it does feel so liberating to be able to leave them behind.
Thanks again for another great post.
Hi Lori,
Thank you for your kind words
I find reading the cards without positions to be a similar experience to you – “…allows so much more freedom and flexibility and lets the ideas flow back and forth with the cards interacting with each other instead of them being read in a more individual and isolated way.”
I know what you mean
Bravo! One small step for Douglas…One giant leap for tarokind.
Love the post my friend. You already know the extremes of my tarotinkering. Suffice it to say. I couldn’t agree more. Great post!
Love and Light,
Bulal
Hi Bulal,
Thank you so much for your kind words. I really appreciate it
A very inspiring post, Douglas, as always!
I shared many confusions with the positional spread you outlined and saw the advantages with non-positional spreads.
In Point 3 you said the best way to shift from positional-spreads to non-position one is to drop the positional meanings when I feel comfortable with it. Does that mean I should read twice in a layout, i.e. to interpret the layout according to positional meanings first, and then going for a second trial interpreting it by dropping the positions? Or should I go for a non-positional interpretation once when the cards are dealt out, as soon as I feel ‘I am ready’?
I’m comfortable with reading 3 cards-in-a-row non positional readings with EDs, as in the 15 cards Thoth spread. But to lay out a series of 20 or more cards in a row… hmmm… I’d be totally lost! Lol. I wonder how do you decide the interactions / the stronger and weaker cards in that case?
Hi Paul,
I’m glad you liked the post
Yes, as a sort of “transitional” phase to be used until you feel comfortable with not using positions. The first reading of the spread is something you will be comfortable and familiar with.
Absolutely! If you feel comfortable to jump straight in then please do so. My suggestions were to help people to make a transition from positional based spreads to non-positional based spreads. The methods and tips that I wrote about were ways to help people feel more comfortable with this process. If you, or anyone else, already feels comfortable with it then yes, go for a non-positional interpretation as soon as you ‘feel ready’
I usually find myself drawn to a certain group of cards as soon as the cards are dealt. I’ll immediately start talking about what I see whilst scanning the rest of the cards – looking for obvious patterns, connections and Elemental Dignities. I’ll also use card pairing as way to get me into the reading. Hope that helps
Right on! I read the cards gypsy style for the influences of a reading and in a general sense so the Querent and I can work out what it means to them. My Mother always taught me to keep it simple too, so I always strive to do just that LOL.
Also, I think it can become confusing, because its easy to forget the structure and intent when reading a positional spread. If you forget or aren’t focused on the intent of the reading, the cards become confusing because you haven’t placed firmly in the mind what the positions are and exactly how you are going to read them. Also, I think people expect exact answers from the Tarot rather than reading for the ‘influences’ of a situation.
So positional spread aren’t that bad as long as you have it clear in your mind exactly what influences the positions and cards are going have on a spread rather then exact answers.
This is why people find certain spreads easier for them to use. Because they know exactly what the positions mean and can identify with them easily. Their intent is clear.
Hi Hannah,
Thanks for dropping by
That’s an interesting point. In an earlier comment, a discussion started where I was reminded just how important it is to have worked with one Tarot spread exclusively for a certain period of time. Part of the reasons for doing this can be related, perhaps, to your thoughts on “holding firmly in your mind what the positions actually are”.
It’s true that confusion will arise if there is any uncertainty over what the positions themselves actually mean.
I think you’ve got a reasonable and well balanced point of view on this subject.
Great comment
hmmm…. I certainly got what you mean. I think I just really lack confidence in that. Especially when sometimes I could see two interpretations in the cards that is mutually exclusive. For example I remember reading somewhere that the Knights can mean the coming or going of a relationship. (“Oh come on! So which one is it?!”)
In the past whenever I tried non-positional readings my mind will go completely blank… but today I made a few attempts and the feelings seemed to have differed. Well, I still couldn’t quite lay my fingers on it but I felt that ‘something is there’. In particular the moments after I dealt a series of 10 cards horizontally, they seem to pair up each other quite naturally. Card 1 + 2 seems to be giving an information about one thing, 3 + 4 about another, 5 + 6 yet another but is a further development of the previous… It came about so easy that I couldn’t be sure – I always worry that I might be ‘reading meanings into the cards”. The problem, I guess, might because I almost always only read for myself, so I certainly couldn’t be completely objective…
Immediately prior to writing this comment, I tried another 10 cards non-positional reading again, and for the first time – I had no idea why – I saw the shape of a womb in the card Sorrow (Yes! And for the first time this inauspicious card didn’t disturb me!!) and the Prudence card next to it reminds me of ovaries and eggs – this is totally absurd and I am glad that I was reading it alone in my room! Haha! Perhaps I should leave this last part of comment in your previous post about crazy tarot interpretation instead.
Hi Paul,
LOL yeah, the Court Cards can be a bit of a nightmare
Try not to worry about “reading meanings into the cards”. Although it’s important to be mindful of this, it’s also important to “let go” and just read. Part of the danger of reading for yourself is that you already know yourself, and your situation rather well. This can make reading the cards difficult – the example of the Knight is a really good one!
Everyone knows it’s difficult to read for yourself but even knowing this, it still doesn’t make it any easier. The only solution that I’ve found for this kind of situation is to make up fantasy questions for a fantasy client. This way, the pressure is off and you can really let your intuition flow. After a couple of weeks try giving yourself another reading. It might be a little easier.
It does sound like you’re getting really comfortable with card pairing which is awesome. The way you describe it is the way I also experience it – each pair building on the last! It’s a good sign that you’re noticing how easy it can be. This doesn’t mean you’re “reading meanings into the cards”, rather, it means that you’re allowing your intuition to flow. It’s a good sign!
Haha, what a wonderfully crazy insight
It is just a matter of preference I think
. I’ve always liked spreads but now I mostly use just one card or three because I only read for myself.
I used to love the Celtic Cross and a couple of other larger spreads because they can give a structure to the reading. I used to love the way the story would role out, like the chapters of a book.
I think that larger spreads with position meanings can give quite an accurate picture of any situation. Sometimes the larger spreads can help in the process of engaging with the querent.
But again, it is all just individual style and preference.
Hi KS,
Thanks for dropping
I agree. Individual style and preference is really what this all comes down to.
Chris felt that in the right hands a positional or non-positional spread could be equally as effective; Hannah also felt that being absolutely clear on what the positions actually represent would remove a lot of the difficulties with positional spreads. I think you all have fair points in defense of positional spreads.
Using positional spreads can be effective in the right hands, and I think this leads into the whole idea of individual style. If you can make a positional based spread work for you then it’s going to be very effective. As Hannah pointed out, there are methods that can be used to help maximize the potential usefulness of positional spreads.
One of the benefits that you describe with positional spreads is this whole idea of “structure”. I do think this is one of the main strengths behind positional spreads – unfortunately for me (and as you rightly point out -this is individual style) I eventually found this structure to be limiting.
I also agree with your point on engaging with the client. I think this is a very important part of any Tarot reading and the more cards that are used, the easier it can be to engage with them.
Thank you for your comment
As always, your posts are thought provoking. I love the rebellious nature of this post – respect the rules but abandon them as necessary! YES! I do what I call a “bastardized” version of the Celtic Cross as my opening spread when I read for a client – I begin by laying out in the traditional positions as a “base” but then start laying cards any which way in a crazy patchwork fashion until I “feel” I am done laying them out. I interpret as I go, noting patterns and connections. It works much better than the Celtic Cross and is way more accurate.
While positional spreads are very helpful, it is always good to color outside of the lines.
Hi Theresa,
I’m glad you like the post
Wow! What an awesome method you have for reading the Celtic Cross
I really like how you let your intuition guide you – allowing connections and patterns to colour and inform the reading. Very cool
I couldn’t agree more!
The Celtic Cross gives this tarot n00b the hives!
I am still at the Positional-Level of tarot reading. It gives me a framework to read within; things to remember to focus on. But as soon as I’ve got the gist of what’s being said, I start to work on connecting the cards to each other, who’s staring at who, which numbers come up, which _don’t_, dominant (or domineering!) elements etc. I also make up my own spreads for each new reading, tailored to the situation I’m investigating. I’m probably working towards non-positional spreads, for when I’m more comfortable with the cards and my own understanding of them.
p.s. Thank you for always having such interesting posts. It is really valuable to hear something other than the same old-same old, based on real experience. Very… liberating!
Hi Irmata,
I’m glad you liked the post
Haha!
What you’re describing is really the essence of a good Tarot reader.
These are the skills, techniques and methods that will inform each and every Tarot reading you do. They are far more important than say, the divinatory meanings.
I remember years ago listening to a song. I can’t remember the song, or even the exact lyrics that were used but, I do remember thinking, “I must apply that to every Tarot reading I do from now on”. The lyrics that inspired me were something like, “…trying to keep an eye on you”.
I knew that if I could get a sense of what card was tying “to keep an eye on” another card, I would open up a whole new level to my readings.
That lesson never left me and it’s still something I use today.
Once you get really comfortable with the techniques you’ve described (where they become almost unconscious), most things will click into place
Thank you very much for the encouragement, Douglas!
My pleasure
On of the reasons I don’t usually lay out the cards in a non positional spread in a row is because people tend to think a row means that things unfold one after another in sequence…or that the cards may not be inter connected unless they are side by side…So I tend to like a random scattered layout. just a thought for those planning to try non postitional ones
Hi Ginger,
What a brilliant suggestion!!!
Good advise, Douglas! should try it and let you know how it goes =)
Awesome – I’d love to hear how you get on
Hi Douglas,
This is one of the most inspiring Tarot articles I have ever read. Couple to this your Elemental Dignities Dictionary and you’ve single-handedly rejuvenated my passion for the Tarot hobby, for which I thank you.
I had familiarized myself with the Golden Dawn’s ED concept back in 1999 but never used it in my readings because:
(i) I just read for myself, friends and family and most of the times the readings were simple, requiring 5 to 7-card positional spreads, with the Celtic Cross being the biggest spread.
(ii) I prefered not to depend on GD tarot techniques because of its link to Hermetic Qabbalism, whose explanation of how the material world manifested and man’s place in it doesn’t quite agree with my own personal experiences and other spiritual affiliations.
In hindsight, I can see that my reliance on positional spreads had caused my own Tarot burnout and disenchantment in the past couple of years. So it was not due to any fault in the Tarot’s structure but the limiting positional spreads!
I got back into doing Tarot readings this year and recently went for more ambitious spreads featuring card triads, like the 15-card Thoth spread. However I was stumped in my reading attempts. It didn’t occur to me to try the ED system because I’d put it out of my head for years. Then I stumbled upon your blog, read your articles and then went back to some recent readings in my journal to apply the ED system. BAM! The Tarot’s messages became sharp and clear. How did I miss them the first time around?
The thing that flabbergasts me is: did I already ’subconsciously’ cause all my readings to be interpreted the GD way ever since I studied the ED concept ten years ago?!! It is a bit creepy, like being an ex-initiate who can’t wriggle free from the influence of a religious organization.
Oh whatever… I may still not agree with some Hermetic Qabbala concepts but I have to admit that the Golden Dawn knows Tarot inside out.
I will slowly wean myself off positionals. The key spread I want to phase out is the Celtic Cross, with the Romany Spread as its replacement. I’d always wanted to use the latter but never understood its logic. It’s 3 rows by 7 columns, and the 6th and 7th columns are usually given as Near and Distant Future, yet at the same time the 3 rows are delineated as Past, Present and Future – very contradictory. Now, with the ED system in place my next attempt at the Romany will be to take the centre row cards as the main ones and the top and bottom row cards as elemental modifiers. (No doubt, this remains a positional spread but the extra modifiers will offer more scope than the Celtic Cross. When I become more proficient, I’ll try reading the whole spread as a 21-card linear spread.)
Sorry for the ramble, but as you can intuit, I’m an old git who’s become like an enthusiastic child with the Tarot again. Thanks.
Hi Eugene,
Thanks for dropping by
Thank you!
It’s great to hear that your enthusiasm for Tarot has been rejuvenated. I really appreciate you letting me know and it means a lot to hear that some of what I’ve written has contributed to this.
I understand! It’s important that we all find an answer to the question of mans place in the universe. I’ve also struggled with some of the ideas presented on this subject but occasionally I get inspired by the idea of a relationship with the divine. When I shift my attention from the application of a theory to the devotion of a relationship I start to feel more at ease.
A set theory of the divine, how the universe manifested and mans place within it can often feel so removed from direct experience that connecting with it is problematic. I decided a long time ago, perhaps as you did, to no longer try.
Beautifully said!
Positional layouts create confusion which often leads to a lack of confidence and Tarot reader burnout.
Awesome! I’m glad that the Elemental Dignities series has helped
LOL possibly
Rather than seeing that as creepy, I see that as awesome. It's a clear sign that your subconscious is willing to communicate and work with you via that system; through that system your intuition will flow effortlessly.
Awesome. Based on what you’ve said in this comment, I would suspect that you already have everything in place to do this now. It may take time to build up your confidence, it may take time before you feel comfortable reading 21 cards as a linear spread, but I think your subconscious is more than willing to work with you on this
LOL
Thank you once again for all your kind words. I’d love to hear how you get on with the Romany spread
I agree with non positional readings. I have been reading for 23 years, it is a constant learning process. I always have divided my majors from my minors and used the horoscope spread with no inverted cards. Majors layed out first, minors on top,(if the area of concern was negative, trust me, the upright cards tell the story as well) I also deal off the top, no cutting of the deck. This system always worked for me, and still does, however, when concentrating on an area of concern, I find the cards read as a book, page after page, card after card. All areas are addressed, or can be, but the reading itself is truly more accurate and in sequential order of events. All readers should try it, especially when court cards are involved (a major source of confusion for many readers). They truly tell a story about themselves and the client with whom the reading is done for.
Let your intuition be your guide! Give it a try, you will be pleastly surprised!.
Hi Chris,
Thanks for stopping by
I agree! The Tarot is a constant learning process – it always amazes me how something simple can totally transform the way I approach future Tarot readings.
I agree – it’s one of those areas that can often confuse people. The system you suggest sounds awesome; any interesting or helpful way to practice the Court cards should be embraced.
LOl awesome way to put it
Hello. First of all I want to thank you for all the resources you make available on your Blog. I have spent a lot of time on it, and I have learnt a lot. Thank you. I discovered Paul Hughes- Barlow’s web site a few months ago. I found his explanation of the elemental dignities fascinating. I have been studying Tarot for over twenty years, yet, I barely used the elements interactions in interpreting my readings. I did, but I just touched the surface. Anyway, I have paid more and more attention to them. I followed your explanation of them, and it is starting to make more and more sense.
Last night I read your posting about reading without formal spreads and positions. I like spreads. I make my own most of the time. They help me interpret the card within a specific contest. I find gypsy reading overwhelming.
But, I could understand the benefits of more fluid readings.
Today I put your ideas to the test. I did a reading for my-self for the month of December. I found a compromise I could work with.
I chose five subjects (my-self, my work, family finances, in my home, unexpected). I used 3 cards for each theme, spreading the cards is 5 lines.
The big change for me is that I looked at each group of 3 cards not as a sequence of time, or advantages and challenges. I read them using the elemental dignities, central card as the outcome, and looking at the the other two to determine the strength, and the meaning.
It worked beautifully. I got repeating numbers on the side cards. I got evolutions. It made perfect sense. I was so surprised!
In the end, I even moved the order of the lines to better see the relations between cards. I put the line representing my-self over the line dealing with my family life, and below it the one for the unexpected. They all worked together to reaffirm each other and the main message of the reading.
Thank you. I will definitely keep experimenting.
Anna
Hi Anna,
Thanks for dropping by
I’m really glad that you’re finding some of the content on this blog useful.
Awesome! This is a great example of how Elemental Dignities can add extra depth to your readings. It also highlights how a more fluid approach to a Tarot reading allows intuition to ‘talk’.
Experimentation is really the best approach to refine our Tarot understanding and skills. I’m really happy that you’ve got a lot out of some of the articles on this blog and I thank you for your kind words