Using Tarot for Writing Stories, Part 2

Tarot Meanings, and a Flexible Spread to Create Stories From Beginning to End

Huge rainbow . . . tiny little booklet. So disappointing!

Welcome to Part 2! If you have not read part 1, please do so. This is a big one, and it is dense with information.

For the last year, I have used the tarot system to inspire and enhance creativity. It is a natural move for me to turn to the tools I am most comfortable using. I developed a loose way for developing plots points for stories, using a 12 card spread (and options for expanding any of them as needed). Keep in mind that these spreads are flexible to suite the project you are working on, so the number of cards can be pulled back or pushed larger.

Before we dive in, I want to show the types of card meanings, which can be gleaned from the small booklet with the traditional Rider-Waite deck, versus a concise book on the very same deck. They are worlds apart. Let me show you why you should consider purchasing a decent book and stay off the internet.

Below, you will find a random place in the booklet highlighting the Major Arcana card meanings. Seems a little, um, brief for the “Greater Arcana”. These are major energies and archetypes! All they get is a list of keywords. Shameful.

Now, let’s look at the minor arcana’s descriptions, which are slightly better, but come on. We need more! Also, look at the vocabulary - the choice of words would likely be considered arcane and out of touch with today’s language and culture.

I promise there is hope - and there are some wonderful tarot books out in the world! I decided to pick one that highlights this particular deck, and it is amazing. Just look at the section for cards symbolism alone! Expanded meanings for a variety of focuses such as love, success, spirituality, and even a “card of the day”. Spectacular. However, I did find one misprint where the 3 of Wands card image is on the 2 of Wands page. Almost perfect!

This is the book! And look at that detail!

There are really great tarot online resources for quick reference, check them out:

• Mary K. Greer’s (she’s a queen!) approach to interpreting cards: https://marykgreer.com/2011/09/16/integrating-card-meanings-in-a-tarot-reading/

• Biddy Tarot’s guide to practically everything you can imagine, give the site a good tour as well: https://biddytarot.com/tarot-card-meanings/

• https://www.internationaltarotfoundation.com/free-resources

• Archetypes of the major arcana: https://www.llewellyn.com/journal/article/1951

• Stumbled on this site today - her language is bit cutesy (she says “meet cute” more than once), but there’s substance, and lots of it:

  https://diymfa.com/?s=tarot

The Creative Writing Story Tarot Spread

What you need:

• A basic tarot deck, thoroughly shuffled

• A journal/notebook and writing tool for notes, or take notes on your laptop/tablet/phone

Optional, highly recommended:

• A decent tarot meanings book (a few of my favorites):

  • “Tarot Reversals” by Mary K. Greer is my absolute favorite for detailed and varied meanings for cards, and the reversal descriptions are top notch. I still use this every week for my work, for the last 15 years. My copy is quite tattered!

  • “Tarot for Writers” for Corrine Kenner for more of a writer’s focus

  • “The Ultimate Guide to the Rider Waite Tarot (Ultimate guide to the Tarot, 1)” by Johannes Fiebig and Evelin Burger

The Spread:

I will break this down into sections. Let’s start with an example spread, which I created especially for this post. I have never seen these cards together before this, so let’s see what I can come up with.

Example Reading

Character Backstory

The character backstory is something you can use to pepper details throughout the story. It is the primary motivation behind the main character’s actions. And! So important! Just because there are only 2 cards here, doesn’t mean you are limited. If you want to grab more details of the backstory, you can build out all kinds of details by pulling out a few more cards. I highly recommend taking notes as you go to reference for critical character development as you form your story.

First, look at them individually and write down your initial thoughts and impressions of the image. I have been working with the cards for many years, so I have some preconceived meanings. I try to throw them out for story creation to widen the possibility. Once you have this done, look at them as a pair - how do these card themes relate? Then, look at some card meaning for extra depth and complexity. Use your intuition! Don’t throw away your first thoughts on the relationship between the cards - that’s usually the answer.

Card 1: General theme of their life up to where the story starts

• Justice (Major Arcana)

Justice’s image immediately brings the idea of judges, moral compass, knowing right from wrong, and the scales the person holds indicates legal/matters of law. Consulting my Tarot Reversals book (because it is my favorite), I tend to quickly scan the text and notice which phrases jump out at me. This is important. If it jumps out at you, this is the part you need to pay attention to. I see the phrase “you are called to account for your actions”, “balancing needs and desires with others” in regard to “contacts . .. courts, lawsuits, investigations”. Try to define who the person in the card is - could be a judge, or the person facing judgement. Also, “being true to one’s self and own nature, focus being fair and just in all things”. Pretty close to the image, right?

Card 2: Most important experience which contributed to who they are today

• The Moon (Major Arcana)

The Moon card is ambiguous. Based on the imagery, we see a crab emerging from the sea to start down the path, and must pass between animals (a wolf and dog) on two sides (fierce vs tame). In the distance, there are two pillars lining the path (a gateway to somewhere unknown?), and a combo sun/moon over everything (an impossibility - is this a dream realm?). Putting on my intuitive eyes for just the imagery, I see the crab emerging into an unknown realm, the new path into the unconscious. The crab reminds me of the astrological symbol of Cancer, and they are generally emotional and sensitive. The actual meaning of this card is one of intuition, shadow work, dream work, and also the unknown (and that can be either positive or negative). This is one of the most complex cards in the deck, and traditional meanings paint it in a more negative light, using keywords like terror, danger, instinctual fears, deception . . . you get the idea. I think the key here is “unknown”, which, when passing through those gates brings this element from the unconscious. It’s not always pretty and nice. It’s shadow work.

I feel that this character is one who may have had an intuitive “epiphany”, that moment of realization of what is unknown is inside of them, and the new path before them requires them to trust the dream realm’s messages. What is that message? It will take some work, and won’t always be pleasant or easy.

Here’s my take on Justice and The Moon as a character backstory:

Taken together, I see a character who grew up in an environment where a strict moral code was enforced. They may have faced judgement from from wanting to break free from this rigid code of conduct. Perhaps a strict father/mother/society. The desire to break free came from a defining moment in their lives to escape this life. Intuition that their destiny now defines the future comes to them, and it can no longer be ignored.

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The introduction, middle, and ending groups of cards are formulaic, and that is by design. It is structured for consistent interpretation and the ability to repeat and add on to the plot points as needed. The transition cards are critical to act as the bridge between the sections of the story.

Introduction Arc Plot Point(s):

Card 3: The mood/theme of the moment at the start of the story for the main character

• 3 of Wands (Minor Arcana)

Looking at just the imagery, the man’s back to me suggests that he is not thinking about the past, but rather the land and future in front of him. He’s passed through a “wands” gateway, and has his own walking stick in his hand. He looks ready to walk into the land. Traditionally, the events have unfolded, and “the ships have sailed”. This shows a “virile force, confidence, and boldness to launch enterprises, perhaps by bringing three or more people or factors together” from a position of authority.

Card 4: The trigger of the event unfolding

• The Hierophant (Major Arcana)

All I see here is religious authority. The finger-wagging “do this and don’t do that”. Established cultural authority as well - the government and education reinforcing the religious doctrine and telling the masses how to think, act, and live one’s life to keep order. The traditional meanings are close to this, as the imagery is literal. It can also indicate finding religion (established doctrine) for personal growth. The word “heirophant” means “one who reveals the sacred by bringing the intelligible to light, thus, in yourself this can mean bringing forth one’s genius, or inborn quality and spirit”. Ponder that for a minute. It’s a big idea.

Card 5: The event which occurs that transitions to the middle of the story arc

• Queen of Swords (Minor Arcana)

My initial impressions are of a cold woman, she looks like she means business. Not the kind and soft woman, but one made of stronger resolve. The sword in her hand tells me she know the feeling of pain, and also knows the power that sword can wield. Practical and challenging personality, stern. Traditional meanings indicate this personality, and sometimes point to a widow/divorced woman, spinster type. She is aloof and intelligent. Could be cut off from emotions or not show them easily to others. A demanding mother.

These are three very big ideas - how can we connect them together into a series of events (plot points) for our story of the rebel breaking free from his life? The 3 of Wands is his desire to take that first step into a new life, but he first contend with the established authority - I really like the idea of an oppressive church-state with the government reinforcing these twisted ideals. The population follows it out of fear, and those who rebel and cause trouble pay some kind of consequence. I think our character will do this and gather others who want to be involved to face the wrath of a stern “queen” (perhaps not a literal queen, but a person who takes on these qualities) and challenge the fate society places upon him for his “transgressions”. Perhaps she can be our Judge from the Justice card. See what I did there? Bring in that character background!

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Middle Story Arc Plot Point(s):

Card 6: The mood/theme of the plot point event

• The Chariot (Major Arcana)

My impressions are that the chariot indicates a sense of momentum - movement is here, something has started and it is big. This is a procession, and it’s putting on a show. The sphinxes are black and white - total mastery of balance. There is a high level reason for this show of power. Traditionally, this is a card of victory, mastery, and control. The “metaphorical reigns are in your hand”, and taking “an aggressive stance on an issue”. A “mask . . . or sub-personality which hides your vulnerability”. Interesting themes here. I think this story is taking shape with some intriguing layers.

Card 7: The trigger of the plot point event

• 2 of Wands (Minor Arcana)

My impression of the images here (also noting it is the card before our 3 of Wands in the introduction) is that there is much planning occurring - the big idea that everything is there that our character needs if he can just bring it together. Traditionally, my lovely book scan tells me it is a card which says, “having everything . . . . but longing for more”. He holds dominion over resources, the world in his hands. This is the doorway to opportunity, yet there is a sense of hesitation and wanting to see if efforts will be fruitful.

Card 8: The event which occurs that transitions to the next plot point

Ace of Pentacles (Minor Arcana)

• Cards 6-8 can be repeated for as many plot points you may need, then use card 9

• Or, use cards 6-7, and then skip to card 9 if you are ready for the ending

Oh! Success! Something is going to go right, and it will involve some kind of financial or material gains. Lovely. The outlook for success is overwhelmingly great. Traditional meanings are the same, and “ the outlook is so good it might seem foolish not to proceed”. I love this for our character.

Card 9: The event which occurs that transitions to the end of the story arc

• Page of Swords (Minor Arcana)

My first impressions of this card focus on two things - the sword upright in the page’s hands, and looking backward. The page seems to be in a fighter’s stance, with his sword ready. Looking behind and surveying the situation. Traditional meaning is similar, and also indicates the page being “alert, quick-witted, and agile, but if threatened, cutting or spiteful”. Seems on point for the conflict brewing in our story.

Overall interpretation: Remember in part 1, when I discussed looking at where people in cards are looking/pointing to? Scroll back up the picture and look at where the 2 of Wands and Page are looking . . . See it? Yes, they are looking at The Chariot. The page is readying for the conflict ahead and on defense. Plans are set, and resources/people are in place and quickly gaining momentum via our chariot. Our story is getting exciting, yes?

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Ending Arc Plot Point(s):

Card 10: The mood/theme of the plot point event

• 2 of Cups (Minor Arcana)

My impressions from the images bring to mind that a mutually beneficial partnership is formed (people facing one another with 2 cups), and the lion head with wings tells me it will involve courageous acts which enables a sense of rising above together. Traditionally, this is close to my impressions, “as a major statement of the power of opposites to attract . . . transcend differences . . . . draw together for some higher purpose”. Well this is just lovely!

Card 11: The trigger of the plot point event

• Knight of Wands (Minor Arcana)

The adventurous Knight! See the pyramids of Giza in the background? This is the ending conflict sparked by the passionate Knight. The pyramids tell me of exotic locale, perhaps dictating travel to a location for this bold character. Traditional meanings are the same, and in keeping with our story, found this: “You might rebel against stodgy or old-fashioned things, and thus revolutionize a system or procedure”. Interesting so far! Let’s see how this conflict plays out.

I am going to pull these two cards together before I tackle the last three cards. Our rebellious character will meet an ally (not necessarily a woman, but it could be!) who will be a great help to the cause to overthrow the oppressive authority. Perhaps this person will have additional resources. Once the time comes for the actual conflict to occur, it will be in a different land/dimension/region. No longer on the defense, our character and his allies are passionate, bold, and fired up for action. They journey to the site of conflict, motivated and ready.

Card 12: Critical event(s) which must occur to finish the story arc

Use more than 1 card for “12” if needed based on your plot points. In this case, I added two cards for clarity.

• 3 of Pentacles (Minor Arcana)

The first thing I see is the church, and then I see the people doing the work on the structure. Plans in the architect’s hand, the artisan working the walls, etc. This is pulling together the resources, and teammates embracing their unique role. The traditional meaning is the same. I find it interesting that this story involves religious oppression, and these folks are in a church in the card. It is fair to say that both sides of this conflict ready their resources.

• 7 of Cups (Minor Arcana) - extra card pulled

My impressions of the images in this card are all the different elements in the air, but they are not grounded in reality. The person imagining up these realities is thinking about possibility - what could be, what they want/do not want, doubts, practicing potential scenarios. Traditional interpretations focus on the person on the card having to shift through the fantasy and illusion to make clear decisions. Interestingly, my all-too-wise book states, “Since seven is the number of tests and trials it could be a kind of psychomachia (the struggle of faith vs vices) or battle for the soul”. Doesn’t this sound like our conflict?

• The World (Major Arcana) - extra card pulled

This is victory after much strife and struggle. The dance of life, embracing all the world has to offer. Traditional interpretations are the same, and I would like to add, “with a glow of achievement in a goal fulfilled, you claim your place at the center of material bounty and receive your rewards. In the flowering of your attainments, the gifts and approbation of the world surround you”. How great is this for an ending?

These three cards together describe a resolved conflict, but it is not clear how to do so at first. Both side build up their resources to battle one another. Illusions are present, and our character must stay grounded to see clearly how to succeed. Once the conflict is won, a rebuilding effort is in order. The oppressors’ resources are now in possession of our character and allies. The world is ready to be rebuilt with a new image.

Putting it all together

My overall impressions are separated by section, so I am going to put them all together in order to see how they flow. Just reading this sounds like a natural plot progression. I did not re-order as I pulled them out of the deck - these cards created this story. I shuffled like I normally do, and they fit together beautifully. Tarot is like that, and the synchronicities are amazing.

This is what I would write in my notebook based on the cards:

This character experienced an intuitive “epiphany”, that moment of clarity and realization of what was previously unknown inside of them, and the new path requires them to trust the dream realm’s messages. But it will take some work, and won’t always be pleasant. Our character grew up in an environment where a strict moral code was enforced. They may have faced judgement from elders due to this rigid code of conduct. The desire to break free came from a defining moment in their lives to escape this life. The revelation of new destiny now defines them, and it can no longer be ignored. It won’t be easy.

His desire is to take that first step into a new life, but he first contend with the established authority - an oppressive church-state with the government reinforcing twisted ideals. The population follows it out of fear, and those who rebel and cause trouble pay some kind of consequence. Our character will gather others of like-mind who wish to be involved to face the wrath of a stern “queen” oppressor and challenge the fate society places upon him for his “transgressions”. The oppressor figure is our Judge from the Justice card.

The page is readying for the conflict ahead and on defense. Plans are set, and resources/people are in place and quickly gaining momentum via our chariot. The people are rising.

Our character will meet an ally, who will be a great help for the cause to overthrow the oppressive authority. This person will have additional resources. Once the time comes for the actual conflict to occur, it will be in a different land/dimension/region. No longer on the defense, our character and his allies are passionate, bold, and fired up for action. They journey to the site of conflict, motivated and ready.

It is not clear how to resolve this conflict at first. Both sides build up their resources to battle one another. Illusions are present, and our character must stay grounded to see clearly how to succeed. It is a struggle. Once the conflict is won by our character, a rebuilding effort is in order. The oppressors’ resources are now in possession. The world is ready to be rebuilt with a new image.

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Don’t be afraid to intuitively move around the cards that give cohesion to the plot of the story. If that Ace of Pentacles card feels better at the end, and not in the middle, do it. It's your story, and these are just tools to help you pull together the structure. If you find a card in the perfect position, and you want to dive deeper into what is behind that great concept/plot/character, pull a few more out on the side to discover more. If you start pulling extra cards, and they stop making sense, call it done. Write your notes.

I am a visual person, and I love making diagrams and mind maps. You can convert these story plots into a visual representation of your choosing (on paper/digital/art scribbles) using only a few keywords from each card.

Reading this story summary reminds me of medieval battles, science fiction, survival horror, and many movie plots. I feel like a story arc of this nature could be scaled down to micro levels for personal conflicts, or scaled up to full-scale wars with armies. Amazing, isn’t it? These cards fell out of the deck in this order, and the story is reflective of common story arcs we see in movies, literature, and plays. The classic good versus evil.

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I must admit that I had no idea I would write this much right out of the gate. My mind is alive with ideas for more. Tell me what you want to see in future posts on this topic - feed the comments full of your questions and ideas!

This is part 2 in a hopefully longer series. Next up, I will show you some of my early notes for my maybe future novella and how I used shorthand, intuitive-with-no-plan tarot pulls. I will post my actual pages of scribbles and the rabbit holes it led me down. It’s truly like Alice falling down into wonderland for me. The realm of imagination throws away reality to create something that absolutely breaks the rules.

Extra challenge! Any one interested in writing a story with these cards?

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Note: All quotations in this article are pulled from “Tarot Reversals” by Mary K. Greer. The tarot spread is my own creation. Please credit this page if you reference anything in your own work.

Read on to Part 3: