I have been the proud owner of The Transparent Tarot Deck for a few months now and they still fascinate me. Bravo to Emily Carding for taking such an innovative approach to something so steeped in tradition. These cards are not a novelty, they are revolutionary.
Since it’s often the interplay of two or more cards that tell the story in a spread, the opportunity to merge 2, 3 or even 4 cards together into a visual story, brings a whole new dimension to reading Tarot.
These card do not rely on gimmicky images to stand out from the norm, in fact the subtle imagery of The Transparent Tarot cards does stay true to the familiar symbolism found in more traditional decks. These cards are simple and stylish with a quirk.
Emily Carding’s interpretations of the cards are written with thought and care, it’s obvious that these Tarot cards were developed with insight, creativity and intelligence.
The Transparent Tarot is a joy to get to know, I would recommend this deck to any reader at any level. In my opinion they are perfect, exactly what I’ve spent the last decade looking for.
Tarot card meanings may vary from deck to deck but the basic symbolism and element stays the same. It’s the symbolism, and mood of the card that needs to be interpreted, not by simply regurgitating what it says in the book, but by letting your intuition decide how the message needs to be interpreted.
Of course you should refer to some sort of reference to learn the symbolism and the keywords but I’ve heard many Tarot readers say that once they’d learnt the basics they simply threw the book away (not literally).
As you’re learning the Tarot card meanings; you will relate to the story behind the picture. This may evoke feelings and bring back good and bad memories from your past experiences. It’s much better to feel the card than simply memorise the book.
Tarot cards are your tool; it’s really your intuition and psychic ability that does the work. See the card as a trigger and then let your third eye guide you. It won’t let you down.
You should decide if you want to read reversed cards too, Tarot card meaning can change when ill-dignified. It’s a personal choice and you should do what feels right for you, some Tarot card readers do read reversed cards and some don’t.
Present Situation – The first card drawn represents the current situation the client finds themselves in.This card is sometimes called the significator.
Obstacles - The second card drawn crosses the present situation, this represents that which crosses the seeker or an obstacle.
Possible Outcome – The card placed here represents the situation as seen from above. It can reflect how things ’seem’ at that time.
Heart of the Matter – The third card drawn describes the foundation of the situation at hand; how things really are. Often this card contradicts the card in position 3.
Past Influences – This card reflects events in the recent past and can describe where the present situation derived from.
Future Influences – The card placed here can give an indication of how present influences will evolve in the near future.
Present Situation – The seventh card drawn is an extension of the first card and gives further insight into how the situation will unfold.
Influence of Others – This card will give us insight into the thoughts and views of others in and around the situation.
Inner Emotions – The ninth card drawn describes our thoughts and feelings, and our hopes and fears.
Final Outcome – This represents the outcome of the situation currently being faced.
There is such a vast selection of Tarot cards on the market that choosing your own deck can be a daunting process. Often the retailer will have a display deck and images are always available online so you can have a good look at each card. Hunt around until you find a deck that you are drawn to.
Whether you prefer a traditional deck like Rider-Waite or a more contemporary style there are hundreds to choose from.
I’ve found myself drawn to many different decks and bought at least 4 or 5 different decks over the years, yet I still tend to stick with 1 particular deck – the Mythic Tarot which is the first deck I bought.
Another option is to make your own Tarot cards. In fact to make your own deck would be a fantastic way to stimulate your imagination and help to learn and understand the many meanings. You could make a collage using magazine cuttings, photos and drawings of things or people that stimulate your imagination and evoke particular emotions.
I never seem to have the time but making my own deck is something I really want to do.
