AFTER TAROT
Title: “Beyond the Cards: A Journey with the After Tarot”
In
the realm of tarot, the Rider-Waite-Smith deck stands as a timeless beacon,
guiding seekers through the mysteries of life. Yet, the After Tarot deck
invites us to step beyond the frozen moments of these iconic images, offering a
glimpse into what happens next in the tarot narrative.
The
After Tarot, a creative brainchild of artists Pietro Alligo, Corrine Kenner,
and Giulia F. Massaglia, is a deck that captures the moments immediately
following the scenes depicted in the classic Rider-Waite-Smith tarot cards.
Published by Lo Scarabeo in 2016, this deck remains faithful to Pamela
Colman-Smith’s original artistic style while adding a layer of temporal depth
to each card.
The
concept of the After Tarot is intriguing—it challenges the static nature of
traditional tarot imagery and suggests a dynamic continuation of each card’s
story. This approach resonates with the belief that tarot images exist in a
parallel universe, one where time flows and stories evolve.
Take,
for instance, the Empress card. In the After Tarot, she is joined by a swan and
her cygnets, reinforcing themes of fertility, creativity, and love. This subtle
addition enhances the card’s original intent without altering its essence.
Conversely,
the Eight of Wands, typically a card of swift action and rapid progress, is
transformed. The addition of an archer poised for battle injects a sense of
urgency and potential conflict, shifting the card’s atmosphere from serene to
charged.
The
After Tarot is a testament to the enduring power of the tarot and its ability
to inspire new interpretations. It serves as a reminder that the stories within
the cards are ever-unfolding, and each reading is but a snapshot of a larger
tale.
As
we journey with the After Tarot, we are reminded that every ending is merely
the beginning of another story, and every card is a doorway to endless
possibilities.
More
info
https://www.aeclectic.net/tarot/cards/after-tarot/
THE GAME HANAFUDA
Hanafuda, also
known as “flower cards,” are a traditional Japanese card game with a rich and
colorful history. Hanafuda is not just a form of entertainment but also an
integral part of Japanese culture, embodying the distinctive characteristics of
the Land of the Rising Sun.
Historical Background Hanafuda originated in the 16th
century when Portuguese traders brought playing cards to Japan. Initially,
Hanafuda was created to replace Western playing cards, which had been banned by
the government due to their association with gambling. Over the centuries,
Hanafuda underwent numerous transformations and evolved into a unique deck of
48 cards, divided into 12 suits corresponding to the 12 months of the year.
Features of Hanafuda Cards Each Hanafuda card is adorned with
images of flowers, animals, birds, or man-made objects. They are smaller than
Western cards, measuring approximately 5.4 x 3.2 cm, but are thicker and more
rigid. This not only creates a visual distinction but also reflects the
subtlety in design and cultural significance of each card.
Popularity of Hanafuda Beyond Japan, Hanafuda has spread
to other countries such as Korea, where it is known as Hwatu and is an essential
part of traditional celebrations like Lunar New Year and Chuseok. In Hawaii,
Hanafuda is used to play the Sakura game, and it is also known in Micronesia as
Hanahuda.
Conclusion Hanafuda is more than just a game;
it is an art form, a part of Japan’s history and culture. The richness of
Hanafuda demonstrates the creativity and the spirit of continuous innovation of
the Japanese people. For those who appreciate Japanese culture, learning and
playing Hanafuda is a wonderful way to connect with and gain a deeper
understanding of the country.
More info:
https://vi.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hanafuda
The Eight of Wands
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The
Eight of Wands tarot card, part of the Minor Arcana, is often associated with
swift action and rapid progress. This card is depicted in the Rider-Waite deck
as eight wooden staves flying through the air at high speed, symbolizing quick
movement and alignment. The background of the card features a clear sky and a
calm river, suggesting that the path ahead is free from obstacles.
In
divination, the Eight of Wands may suggest that a period of waiting is coming
to an end, and events will soon pick up pace. It can indicate the rapid
exchange of information or the swift progression of ideas and projects. As a
card of the Wands suit, it is also linked to creativity, ambition, and personal
drive.
The
key interpretations of the Eight of Wands include:
- Acceleration of plans or projects
- The arrival of important news or information
- The conclusion of a period of stagnation or delay
- The need for quick decisions or actions
This
card encourages individuals to be prepared for the sudden onset of activity and
to use this momentum to their advantage. It serves as a reminder that, at
times, things can unfold rapidly, and being adaptable is crucial to making the
most of these opportunities. Whether it’s a journey, a new venture, or the
resolution of a long-standing issue, the Eight of Wands signifies that the time
for action is now.
More
info
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eight_of_Wands