Introducing Tarot to Storytelling
Due to its strong symbols, the Tarot has the potential to help us to create powerful stories. An exercise which combines the rich imagery of the Tarot with creative writing is a great way to inspire storytelling and to develop intuition. This article provides an introduction to the Tarot and then explains a simple exercise which uses a single card to create a story.
A Brief Introduction to Tarot
The Tarot is an ancient card deck which originated in Italy during the 15th century. It is widely used today as a tool for divination, meditation, and personal growth, as well as story-telling. The deck is made up of 78 cards, divided into two categories – the Major and Minor Arcana. The 22 cards in the Major Arcana represent spiritual themes, while the 56 cards of the Minor Arcana represent the events and situations of everyday life.
Each card in the deck has its own distinct symbolism and meaning, which is communicated by its imagery, and can be interpreted in multiple ways. Tarot readings are often used to provide guidance on a question or situation. The individual cards selected in a reading combine to form a story which can provide invaluable insight and perspective.
Exercise: Creating a Single Tarot Card Story
This exercise provides an introduction to the Tarot and encourages creativity. It involves selecting one card from the deck and using its imagery to create a story.
Step One: Select a Tarot Card
Before beginning this exercise, it is important to ensure that you are in a calm and relaxed state of mind. Closing your eyes and taking some time to clear and focus your thoughts can be helpful. When you are ready, take a card from the Tarot deck and observe the images which have been used to depict this card.
Step Two: Observe and Interpret the Symbols
Take some time to explore the symbolism and meaning of the card, paying particular attention to the figures, colours, objects, landscapes, and all other elements which are present. Really challenge yourself to imaginatively interpret these symbols – what stories are they telling you?
Traverse the imagery of the card, noting which symbols appeal to you the most and any other related thoughts or insights which arise in your mind. Think about how the symbols are arranged on the picture – is anything being balanced, or blocked, or supported?
Step Three: Tell the Story
Now you are ready to begin your story. Take a few moments to consider its various elements. Consider how they interact and relate to one another, and how they manifest in the lives of the characters. Here are some ideas which can help to stimulate your story-telling:
• Who are the characters in your story?
• Where does it take place?
• What is the main conflict or challenge?
• How does the story unfold?
• Who are the winners and losers?
These considerations will help you to create a narrative which takes advantage of the symbolism in the card to explore a theme, develop characters, and build an interesting story.
Step Four: Reflect
Finally, take some time to reflect on your story. Note down any key insights which arise and how they relate to the symbolism of the card and its message. You may be surprised by how your imagination and intuition have been sparked by the imagery present in the card. This can be a great way to begin a journey of exploration into the world of Tarot and its potential to tell powerful stories.
What are some tips for creating a Tarot card story?
1. Read the card descriptions carefully. Pay close attention to the symbols, colors, and characters on the cards and think of ways these elements could impact the story.
2. Determine the main character and the goal they are trying to achieve. Focus on their motivations, desires, and influences throughout the story.
3. Describe the scenes and events in vivid detail, allowing the reader to visualize the story in their mind.
4. Use the card’s symbolic meaning to help you frame the story.
5. Be creative! Allow intuition, creativity, and imagination to guide you in creating the story and characters.
6. Once you have a skeletal structure for the story, use sensory language to bring it to life.
7. Edit and revise your story to ensure clarity, coherence, and a satisfying ending.
What is the difference between a tarot card story and a tarot card reading?
A tarot card story is an imaginative tale based on the symbolism of tarot cards and the meanings that they represent. It usually is a story that reflects on some aspect of life and can serve almost as a form of creative therapy. A tarot card reading, on the other hand, is a predictive practice in which a reader uses the symbolism of the cards to interpret the current state of a person’s life (or a question the person has) and then look into what may happen in the future.
What is the purpose of a tarot card story?
The purpose of a tarot card story is to provide a narrative structure for exploring the various layers of meaning associated with the card. It offers a way to draw out one’s intuition and use of symbolism to create a unique story experience. It also serves as a tool for self-reflection, inner exploration and understanding of one’s situation and relationships.