The Bohemian Gothic Tarot Study Group (The Dark Sister) 1st and 2nd editions

Mimers

27-12-2007, 09:35

What do you say we get the ball rolling on this Study group? I would like to start with just random pulls and whatever card gets pulled we can post our thoughts and comments on.

I am leaving it totally up to the individuals how they want to explore the deck. I like to look at the cards and note what I see in them before I read the companion book. If you like to read the book first that is entirely up to you. I also know that some people like to go through the deck in order that is fine too.

You may also like to tell a little story about the card like Baroli is doing in the reading forum and Dan does in the companion book. That is a great idea too!

I am also thinking of perhaps combining it with the Victorian Romantic since they are sisters. It would be interesting to do side by side comparisons. Anyone else have thoughts about that. I don't know if we would have to do something separate for that. I hope not.

So who is in? Let's get the ball rolling shall we?

Who dares to walk in the night down the dark road?

Baroli

27-12-2007, 10:10

And without a light too, I think I would enjoy this Mimers count me in. Of course I don't bother to use the book (sorry Baba), except for referencing afterwards, but I would be happy to contribute.

Baroli

faunabay

27-12-2007, 13:47

I would love to jump in when I can. I'm not sure how much I'll be able to, but think this will be a VERY interesting study group. :D

firefrost

27-12-2007, 17:46

I'll walk in the dark!

Mimers

27-12-2007, 19:41

Any ideas on how to start? Want to just start talking about the majors for now? One card at a time?

Saffron

27-12-2007, 20:03

*Waves torch*

Me please. :)

firefrost

27-12-2007, 20:21

Want to just start talking about the majors for now? One card at a time?

Sounds like a plan!

Sulis

28-12-2007, 01:08

Hi Folks,

It's good to see this group getting started. I've started an index of threads in the study group so could you please let me know by pm when a new thread is started so that I can add it to the index?
The index thread is here: http://www.tarotforum.net/showthread.php?p=1299674#post1299674

I've also added it to the main study group index here: http://www.tarotforum.net/showthread.php?p=399986#post399986

Enjoy :)

Sulis - Tarot Study Groups moderator

faunabay

28-12-2007, 02:49

Any ideas on how to start? Want to just start talking about the majors for now? One card at a time?

Ok, this is just me but I would like to just draw a card, not go in order. But since I probably won't beable to be here all the time just do what everyone feels comfortable doing.

Baroli

28-12-2007, 06:49

Mimers, just do what you feel is fair. Sounds like a good plan to me, so do what thou wilst.

Baroli

RaeBelle

28-12-2007, 09:21

Mimers thank you for starting the study group! I was thinking one would be great and found it was already started :)

6 Haunted Days

28-12-2007, 11:48

I'll join in of course whenever my BG decides to show up.

Briar Rose

28-12-2007, 13:07

This is the best idea yet! Can you please a little until everyone gets their deck?

Dancing Bear

28-12-2007, 15:26

Most definately I will be in this, and walk into the darkness !!
I dont have Victorian Romantic to compare with Mimers , (is that OK!)

If its alright I will jump in when my deck gets to me.. I am still waiting!
maybe over the next couple of weeks i may get mine.. Postie has to find Australia first :D

firefrost

28-12-2007, 18:12

This is the best idea yet! Can you please a little until everyone gets their deck?

I'm so sorry - I've done a post about The Fool before I read this.

Hils :(

Mimers

28-12-2007, 20:08

I'm so sorry - I've done a post about The Fool before I read this.

Hils :(

Don't worry! There is no deadline here so they will get as long as they need to post. There are also online images they can look at as well. I am not going to get to posting until this weekend because I have been working a lot of hours but I was going to post this morning telling anyone else to feel free to start.

This is exciting!

Sulis

28-12-2007, 21:35

Hi Folks,

For everyone joining this group, could you please take a quick look at the Tarot Study Groups guidelines thread before posting: http://www.tarotforum.net/showthread.php?t=32949

Thanks
Sulis

baba-prague

28-12-2007, 23:15

I'd love to join in, but as you've gathered, I will be a bit quiet. The last few days I've been sitting back just watching the deck at work and loving every moment of seeing how it's being used and interpreted. So to begin with I'll just be quite quiet on this study group - though of course I am here as a resource if you need any factual questions answered (where the image came from etc - though in this deck that's often not particularly interesting or relevant).

I love the idea of the stories that can be built around these cards. I think that may be where they're at their most powerful.

baba-prague

28-12-2007, 23:18

Oh, by the way, I meant to add that I think that mixing this deck with the VR could be quite an experience. The cards are actually exactly the same size (I know someone remarked that the BG are smaller, but I think that must be some optical illusion because of the lack of borders) so they do have the potential to mix well.

I am going to try overlaying two spreads - one BG and one VR - to see what happens. In theory the BG should act as the shadow to the VR, but then again, the VR has some quite dark cards, and the BG contains a lot of slightly wicked humour, so let's see...

Sulis

29-12-2007, 00:33

Hi Karen,

This is the sign up thread, you didn't post in the wrong place.
The link I gave earlier on in this thread is to the Bohemian Gothic Tarot Study Group index thread - an index of threads in this group: http://www.tarotforum.net/showthread.php?p=1299674#post1299674

And the latest link I gave was to the Tarot Study Group guidelines to help those who haven't posted in Tarot Study Groups before; this forum can be a bit confusing for those new to study groups: http://www.tarotforum.net/showthread.php?t=32949

firefrost

29-12-2007, 00:34

No, Karen, you're not in trouble, this is the sign-up thread, I believe.

I've posted my view on The Fool, and Sulis put it where it should be.

Hang on, I'll get the link.

ETA http://www.tarotforum.net/showthread.php?t=90510

If you go and read, be gentle with me!

Master_Margarita

29-12-2007, 01:31

I'm definitely in for this one, though active participation will have to wait until my deck actually falls into my clutches.

baba-prague

29-12-2007, 06:22

Embla

29-12-2007, 06:51

I would love to join. I just did my first reading for somebody else with the BG Silver, and the Danse Macabre came up. I need to learn so much more about that card! I have posted the reading in Personal Readings if anyone is interested.

Promise

29-12-2007, 12:05

I'd love to be involved, but alas, my deck still hasn't arrived. Amazon says it's not due to ship until January 14th, and that makes me sad. Maybe it'll ship out earlier than that. I hope so, at least.

I will most definitely lurk the study group and see what kinds of things you guys come up with, though.

faunabay

08-01-2008, 01:46

I've just realized something about myself and study groups. While I like the thought of it and want to do it...... once I sit down with one particular card to study there are so many things that jump out at me all at once that I can't get a clear picture in my mind as to what it says to me.

It seems that when I am doing a reading with a question and other cards to apply the one card to I'm fine. It sort of narrows the focus for me. But when I sit down and try to do the study group my mind just goes blank.....well actually not blank there's just so much there that it overwhelms my mind, then it goes blank. :)

This is just a personal observation I've recently realized about myself. I need that focus to read the cards well. I think if someone (even doing it for myself) were to say for example, what does the card show in regards to.....whatever - pick a thought? I could come up with something. But to just go at it wide open I go blank. hmmm.....

Master_Margarita

08-01-2008, 01:48

faunabay, maybe think of a study group card as a one-card reading?

I do a daily draw and my musings about my card or the day sometimes sound kind of study-groupish to my ears.

ETA: Although it's certainly true, and your point is well-taken, that the cards acquire a richer meaning in context.

:heart: M_M~

faunabay

08-01-2008, 10:27

faunabay, maybe think of a study group card as a one-card reading?

Oh that's a great idea! Thank you. I'll try that and see if it clears some of the mishmash of thoughts that go through my head all at once.

Maybe I can come up with something like "what does this card have to say right now?" That way I won't try and come up with every single thing I see, but can focus on certain things. hmmmm..... Good idea!

nicki

09-01-2008, 00:35

Count me in, will get started asap.

nicki

RubyV

12-01-2008, 11:31

I'm in for the study group.

Are others still interested, or all we all so seduced by her dark beauty that we just sit there playing with her for hours?

6 Haunted Days

12-01-2008, 11:35

Are others still interested, or all we all so seduced by her dark beauty that we just sit there playing with her for hours?

That's pretty much my reason!

Aconite

01-02-2008, 13:52

I was waiting for a study group. This is perfect timing.

firefrost

02-02-2008, 04:40

Why don't all you who haven't, join us in the card discussions we've begun? There are about four different threads now.

Always good to hear different views and opinions.

We should pester - I mean ask - Baroli to open up her dark sister tent again. She was brilliant with the one card stories.

flicker

07-03-2008, 07:48

id like to sign up too please as I cant seem to put the BG down.

Thanks flicker

6 Haunted Days

07-03-2008, 10:49

id like to sign up too please as I cant seem to put the BG down.

Thanks flicker

No need to sign up, just post your thoughts and feeligs about the cards that already have a thread or start a new thread for card that isn't started yet.

Grizabella

07-03-2008, 11:23

I'm in! A wonderful friend gave me the Silver and I'm absolutely mesmerized by it. :D

Grizabella

07-03-2008, 13:38

I have to admit that this deck is pretty emotional for me in some ways. Thankfully, I've worked through most of my skeletons in the closet prior to now. The Bohemian Gothic is my life in a deck of cards. Especially my childhood and young adulthood. I'm sure I'm going to be having some pretty interesting and powerful reading experiences with it.

My favorite card is the Wheel of Fortune. And if I were to pick myself out of the deck, it would be the little girl in the Page of Pentacles. She looks soooo much like me when I was a little girl, including that I was always picking flowers and I've always loved lilacs, so if lilacs were in bloom, I was sure to be carrying some around.

I just got the deck today and I'm kind of stunned. Certainly fascinated with all I see in the cards and all the insights I have when I look at them. They're fantastic! :)

Astraea Aurora

11-03-2008, 07:04

I would also like to contribute to this Study Group, so count me in. I can't promise to make a regular appearance here but I try my best to tell you my points about those beautiful cards whenever I stumble upon them.

Astraea Aurora :grin:

Grizabella

13-03-2008, 11:12

I just have a question I've been wondering about. Is the card stock on this deck different than on the other decks from MRP? It seems to be more stiff.

6 Haunted Days

13-03-2008, 11:46

I just have a question I've been wondering about. Is the card stock on this deck different than on the other decks from MRP? It seems to be more stiff.

Yes, Karen mentioned it's new cardstock, though I also believe she said the BBC Gold was printed on this same cardstock. Not sure that's right though, either way I have the BBC Gold...and the BG's cardstock feels weighter, thicker and more substantial to me than the BBC Gold.

I personally love this new cardstock!! It's weighter in your hand, and I love how it shuffles.....if you take the VR and BG and compare....there's quite a difference....it isn't slight.

Grizabella

13-03-2008, 15:57

I love it, too. I thought it was different, but wasn't quite sure.

baba-prague

13-03-2008, 18:42

Yes, Karen mentioned it's new cardstock, though I also believe she said the BBC Gold was printed on this same cardstock. Not sure that's right though, either way I have the BBC Gold...and the BG's cardstock feels weighter, thicker and more substantial to me than the BBC Gold.

I personally love this new cardstock!! It's weighter in your hand, and I love how it shuffles.....if you take the VR and BG and compare....there's quite a difference....it isn't slight.

Yes, it's a new cardstock - and yes, it's the same as on the BBCats Gold. Funny that it feels different - that could, I suppose, be psychological, or it could be some weird side-effect of the card stock being stored for half a year waiting for the BG to be printed - perhaps it's like wine, it improves with ageing ;). This stock is, in theory, the same weight (I will check that, but if there is a difference it's very slight) as all our other decks - but the "same" stock from a different supplier/maker does come out very distinct.

Greywoolfe

21-03-2008, 03:47

I love the personality of this deck. I've used it on a couple of occasions when I needed insight into sad or tragic situations, and it came across as warm, reassuring, yet open and honest. It tells you exactly what you need to know, but in a reassuring way, unlike the Thoth, which can be blunt and sometimes cold in the process. I suppose because of the romantic and tragic themes of the source materials, it's more able to empathise with someone who is experiencing sad things...

baba-prague

22-03-2008, 22:45

Greywoolfe

02-04-2008, 17:34

We experienced a difficult and sad year last year - while we were making the deck (a family death that set in train a lot of very hard stuff). I suppose that that is reflected in the way it came out - hopefully it's not a harsh deck, but rather one that confronts some of the things we often try not to have to see.
That's the beauty of the deck, the fct that it's open, honest but not harsh. It seems to say things in the way that a trusted relative or loved one would do- telling the truth, but not in a hurtful way, if you can see what I'm driving at.

Grizabella

02-04-2008, 17:46

Speaking of the card stock again, it's much stiffer than the VR so it's quite an experience to go from shuffling the VR to shuffling the BG. My VR is so broken in now that it's like shuffling fabric, almost. Very flexible and wonderful. I can't imagine the BG ever getting that flexible.

Djcooler

23-04-2008, 03:49

Anyone else think that the Hierophant is a little too sick and tired of his job in this deck. Looking at it, my first thought of him was that he was thinking "My God. Don't you ever listen? I tell you the same thing over and over and I'm sick of it!" It was my first reading with this deck last night and that was my first impression.

Teacups

28-04-2008, 04:05

I think the hierophant looks like I used to in school--slumped over, thinking "how much LONGER til the bell rings and I can get OUTTA HERE". Like he's stuck inside when he'd rather be somewhere else, his posture is a bit beaten down, resigned and a little resentful...

bumble bee

15-08-2008, 18:50

I sometimes get in the mood for something a little dark so I picked up this deck. I love the blues and purples and the Victorian images. I have to say some things in it hit me in a way that makes me laugh. I need that when I am feeling depressed. Its moody but campy at the same time.

Alisa13

09-12-2008, 03:27

Hello All
I've just joined the AT forums and have been enjoying reading everyone's posts.
I especially love the Bohemian Gothic Tarot and am thrilled to find a whole study group devoted to it.
I had a friend of mine bring a BG deck to a Tarot Study group I was in and I couldn't stop looking at the cards. They are hypnotic, beautiful and carry a lot of emotion and meaning with them. Truly artistic and heartfelt.

bumble bee

17-01-2009, 05:34

I have been using this deck all over the place for about 6 months now.
Recently, I went to a study group and the deck was too dark for others in
the group. I used to ask people if they were comfortable with the deck but everyone has loved it so much this time I just forgot to ask. It was all handled very politely but I must admit it made me feel like a bad girl (I know it is silly but it brought back these childhood type feelings).
Does this deck fit in light worker types? They pointed out the demons in the deck. Have they not seen the devil card? Is it not all symbolic? I almost felt like they thought I was channeling demons with this deck. OK, Im a little
oversensitive here. Do human beings not have their demons lurking in the shadows to be purged? Insight?

Alisa13

18-01-2009, 01:37

BB
We all have "lightness" and "dark" in us, that is what makes humans having a "Human" experience in this world.
Did you ever read Mother Teresa's biography? In it even she had her "dark" moments of questioning her faith.
Those who would say you are "channeling" demons have chosen to have a fairly simplistic view of life, one that removes them from personal responsibility (wasn't me The Devil made me to it.)
I have found the Bohemian Gothic deck very Healing because it brings the "shadow" issues right up front, sometimes makes you laugh at them, so I can heal and become more balanced on my "light" and "dark" journey.
I found the Victorian Romantic Deck more disturbing than the Bohemian Gothic deck, but that is another story!
:)

bumble bee

18-01-2009, 06:12

Thanks Alisa. I totally agree.
I will be more careful in the future if people don't feel comfortable with it
to use another deck. Right now its my main deck-It reads beautifully for me and for people I read for.
I dont have the Romantic but I have used BG and another deck together
and thrown a card from each for each position to contrast viewpoints and the "light" deck has come up with the most negative cards sometimes.
Interesting.
Bee

Seeking1

21-01-2009, 12:06

"I found the Victorian Romantic Deck more disturbing than the Bohemian Gothic deck, but that is another story!"

I too find the Victorian Romantic Deck disturbing. I don't use it all that often because of that.

Essjay

03-02-2009, 19:39

I'm very late to the party but can I sign up? I've posted on a couple of threads so thought I'd better make it official, lol!

My only excuse for my lateness is that this is such a winter deck - you really need those long nights and short days.

Alisa13

04-02-2009, 12:38

Hello Essjay
I think by making your post - you're in!
Welcome to the Dark Side . . . .:)

Essjay

04-02-2009, 17:11

Hello Essjay
I think by making your post - you're in!
Welcome to the Dark Side . . . .:)

Lol - brilliant!

:)

MysticalMoose

07-02-2009, 02:49

I'm in too, actually I posted on one of the threads a while ago but never announced my arrival so to speak :D....I have had the deck for a while now but recently I have fallen totally in love with it, no other deck is calling me as much at the moment & since I got the companion book from our Gregory I think this is going to be my studying project for a while now :). Its funny actually because I have never been into Gothic type or so called dark images before....there is just something so captivating about this deck, I love the way the light in the images is so real & beautiful, also the use of colour amongst the dark cards is just magical. I'm looking forward to reading thru the threads on this study group :)

bumble bee

08-02-2009, 05:28

Don't worry Mystic Moose (not that you really were). I have never been a goth type either,never read a vampire book, wear black only on occasion and own no clothing with skulls on it. I believe my attraction to the deck is my deep emotional character and experience with sadness and depression. There are so many layers here just like in life. I am attracted to the beauty of the cards - Im not sure I have ever seen a more beautiful world card. If you have a chance to read for young goth types its a great deck. Its so fun! Enjoy!

MysticalMoose

08-02-2009, 05:40

I am in absolute agreement about that World card! It's so lovely. I am neglecting all my other decks (apart from my BB Cats) this weekend & just enjoying the dark delectable beauty of the BoGo }). The companion book is really good & thorough & when Gregory sent it to me she said that I would notice so many new things about the cards that I possibly wouldnt have picked out without it & she was right. I am in LOVE :D

Sleepwalker

12-02-2009, 08:10

Hi, this is my first post, and my first deck. I was drawn to it immediately when I saw it. I would like to join the discussion because I have a ton to learn.

swimming in tarot

17-03-2009, 07:03

Hi! I posted a couple of times yesterday, then thought I should introduce myself. Just got the deck on Thursday, and am very impressed with it. I'll pop by and post from time to time as mood and time permit. (Is anyone else still here, or am I conversing with echoes?)

Queen of Disks

17-03-2009, 13:50

I'm here. I finally got around to posting yesterday. Looking forward to more discussion!

Lilija

20-03-2009, 23:51

I didn't know there was a signup for the study groups, I just kinda jumped in and started posting. I had my BG deck with me, while I was browsing AT yesterday, and it kinda just unfolded. I am so glad to read and learn with everyone, even though the posts are older. Just poking around yesterday, I learned a whole lot. So, thanks to all those that are or were involved, I appreciate it, and count me in!

magpie9

21-03-2009, 02:59

I seem to have joined up, too. Yesterday I was just cruising New Posts and came across some study group threads....Alice down the Rabbit Hole! So I am entranced with this deck now, amazed at it's depth, and fascinated at the things others see in these cards. It sort of reminds me of spelunking, a group of cave explorers linked together and carrying torches, exploring mysteries deep in the earth. I don't usually join study groups because I'm inconsistent about posting, but I can't stay away from this one!

Altena

01-04-2009, 00:53

My deck(the Silver Edt even) just arrived yesterday and so I thought I'd formally show my interest in joining this study group. So far I've barely looked through the cards, but I've been lusting for this deck for quite some time and I'm over the moon now that it's finally mine :D

Quatermass

29-04-2009, 17:29

I hope to be able to chip in regarding this intriguing deck as and when time allows. To see the light we need to be aware of the dark, one cannot exist without the other, and neither is truly good or bad.

kisou

16-09-2009, 02:45

I'm so happy that this deck was made into a study group~

I've had this deck for about a year now and have used it exclusively since I got my mitts on it (birthday present for myself- hooray!) Anyway, I've learned to really trust this deck and push myself with it, but I'd really like to challenge myself more. To be honest, I feel like I'd be doing the deck a disservice if I didn't go ahead and spend some time to really, really STUDY it.

With most of my other decks, I've spent the time to analyze and think about each specific card... but with the BG, I haven't. Like- at all. Even though the readings have almost always been so fluid and natural, I really do want to get to the next level with this deck before I move onto my next tarot endeavor ;D

So ya, here we go~ I get to revive old threads and read all the delicious information others have posted. I can't wait <3!

BelovedK

23-09-2009, 21:35

Me, me, me!! I want to join in. I absolutely LOVE the dark beauty of this deck. I have had it for about a year, and am still getting to know it. I mostly read for others using Kat Black's Golden Tarot deck, but when they have tough issues coming up I will reach foir the BG. I want to start using it more. I use it alot for prompts in my writing and with my writing group, the imagery is perfect for a starting point.

OctoberGwen

14-12-2009, 22:15

I just obtained my Bohemian Gothic a few weeks ago and I am completely in love with it. This is my first deck study; I'm happy to be here and I hope the conversations continue even though I'm a bit late to the party!

aurarcana

01-01-2010, 07:35

* waves *

This will be my first Aeclectic Study Group. It's been long overdue, and since I don't have the companion book and am also using this deck as my PDR (The Primary Deck Reflections 2010 (http://www.tarotforum.net/showthread.php?t=130852)) along with the Victorian Romantic, it made sense to become part of this too :).

Call me crazy, but the images work in amazing and different ways with this deck. I'm yet to read with it, but will be as of next week. Call me crazy, but it seems quite intuitive to me. My mind just wonders when I look at these cards.

BelovedK

08-01-2010, 09:07

Hey guys :) Let's say that we make this a more active thread? I'm going to draw a card tonight before bed and sleep/dream on it, then I will draw the coinciding VR card, just because I am fascinated by how these decks work together. I'll come back with some insights (I'm keeping it to a one card draw in interests of time and making sure I am able to do all of the things I sign up for.)

OctoberGwen

08-01-2010, 09:42

That sounds great, BelovedK. I've been very lax over the holidays but feel eager to delve into my BG. Lead the way! :D

*waves to aurarcana, too*

ncefafn

08-01-2010, 10:18

I would love to see this group become more active. I'm doing an IDS with this deck and I've been feeling out on the sea all alone with it.

aurarcana

08-01-2010, 10:38

^I'll be active. I am just getting started with my PDR on the 2 decks. I'm just trying to figure out how I want to approach posting in the threads here.Hey guys :) Let's say that we make this a more active thread? I'm going to draw a card tonight before bed and sleep/dream on it, then I will draw the coinciding VR card, just because I am fascinated by how these decks work together. I'll come back with some insights (I'm keeping it to a one card draw in interests of time and making sure I am able to do all of the things I sign up for.)Hi :D. How about we make a thread on single card draws (and even one on 3)? Can that be done in a Study Group? I think it's a great idea. And, what about a thread on the VR and BG being used together? I'd love to start that! We can even keep the posts short if need be.

I was planning on just working with the deck as the cards come up, but I may use my other copy to "study" the cards in order. When I post in the threads in the Study Group here, I feel like I should go in order. How have the rest of you been handling it?

I am still new to reading with the deck; I had it sitting my my Tarot Ottoman for months, but I've been using it consistently now. It reads so well, I'm amazed. Some of the cards are spectacular. For example, The Hanged Man - have you ever seen a Hanged Man like the one in this deck? I even dreamt about it last night.

* waves back to OctoberGwen*

OctoberGwen

08-01-2010, 11:45

How about we make a thread on single card draws (and even one on 3)? Can that be done in a Study Group? I think it's a great idea. And, what about a thread on the VR and BG being used together?

I think the draws sound great - do you mean one person draws and we all discuss? And I don't have the VR, but it sounds like several people are using the decks together. You should definitely start a thread, and why not do it here? I'll find it interesting reading if nothing else. The two decks together will surely give some new insight into the BG.

When I post in the threads in the Study Group here, I feel like I should go in order. How have the rest of you been handling it?

I haven't been, really. I'm new to all this and could use some direction, most definitely.

I am still new to reading with the deck; I had it sitting my my Tarot Ottoman for months, but I've been using it consistently now. It reads so well, I'm amazed. Some of the cards are spectacular. For example, The Hanged Man - have you ever seen a Hanged Man like the one in this deck? I even dreamt about it last night!

I've dreamt about several of these cards, too. I agree, they are AMAZING.

Hmmmm....a Tarot Ottoman....oh yes. :D

aurarcana

08-01-2010, 13:15

I'll start a thread about using the BG as a shadow deck for the VR:).

I haven't been, really. I'm new to all this and could use some direction, most definitely.I am leaning towards posting in the threads as I do daily draws. It may be a more fluid way to go about this as opposed to starting from one card and going forward.

Hmmmm....a Tarot Ottoman....oh yes. :DThat's where I store my decks. It's a large sized square one and it protects my decks from my cats ;) and provides them with a home too!

Sulis

08-01-2010, 19:37

Sorry folks but single card draws and readings are not allowed in Tarot Study Groups unless the reading is specifically to point out how some bit of symbolism works in action. We do have a forum for that though, the Daily Draws forum (http://www.tarotforum.net/forumdisplay.php?f=106) in the Your Readings forum.

It's in the Study Groups guidelines: http://www.tarotforum.net/showthread.php?t=32949

Please remember to let me know by PM when you start a new thread so that I can add it to the index thread.

Sulis - Tarot Study Groups moderator

BelovedK

08-01-2010, 20:49

Sorry, I'll see you in the daily draws thread :)

BelovedK

08-01-2010, 20:52

I'll go look for the other threads. Soon, I'll have something to contribute here :) I am in love with this deck.

aurarcana

13-09-2010, 21:50

Reviving this thread. I posted here many months ago and ended up parting with my Silver and 1st edition (long story) but am giving the deck a second try with the 2nd edition pewter gilt edged version.

Is anyone else interested in studying the new deck?

BelovedK

13-09-2010, 22:08

I am. I love this deck but have never been able to give readings with it. I'll pick it up today, where do you want to start?

Sulis

13-09-2010, 23:31

aurarcana

14-09-2010, 01:46

Just add '2nd edition' to the thread titles please and I'll index them separately.

Sulis xWill do. Should I create a second edition Study Group index as well?

I am. I love this deck but have never been able to give readings with it. I'll pick it up today, where do you want to start?:thumbsup: Hooray! Every time I say I'll participate in a Study Group I feel like I am the only one, thus defeating the purpose.

I was thinking of going in random order based on card draws (daily, although they may not occur daily) but it may be best to study the deck in order one card at a time. I could only commit to one per week, but at that rate, this deck study would take months. What do you think?

BelovedK

14-09-2010, 02:55

I'm up for either. I think it would be fun if it was random based on a draw. I'm ready to start, maybe we could start the study week on Monday, and start now!

I've been playing with the deck this morning, and am so glad someone else wants to work with it in this way :D

BelovedK

14-09-2010, 02:58

I have an idea, maybe we could do a series in each suit a week. For instance Ace through five of Wands for the first week, Six through Ten the second wee, and then the court cards for that suit. That way we could get through the deck quicker instead of meandering through.

I am an organized Virgo by heart LOL, so this appeals to me, what do you think?

Hippychick-Annie

14-09-2010, 03:35

Yes i'm interested... I have just recieved my 2nd ed Bohemian Gothic and dont have the book. I have spent the last few days reading the comments on the Bohemian Gothic study group, but of course there have been some changes to the cards and I never had the first edition.
I'm a very disordered person and dont care in what order it is done.

Sulis

14-09-2010, 03:53

BelovedK

14-09-2010, 04:03

Well random works for me too :)

aurarcana

14-09-2010, 05:01

It's up to you of course but from experience I've found that the study groups that work best with people remaining interested and not dropping out are the ones that study the cards in a random order with anyone who wants to starting a thread.

If you put lots of rules and organisation in there people start waiting for others to start threads and are afraid of messing up the order. This causes people to drop out of the group and the group fizzles out.

I've started an index for the second edition deck and put it at the top of this forum here (click) (http://www.tarotforum.net/showthread.php?p=2465811)

Please let me know by PM when a new thread is started and I'll add it to the index.

Have fun :).

Sulis - Tarot Study Groups moderatorThanks for creating the new Index for the 2nd edition :).

I really like the idea of randomly studying it, but am drawn to the orderly aspects of treating this like a project too. I need structure otherwise I tend to let things fall by the wayside...

I have an idea, maybe we could do a series in each suit a week. For instance Ace through five of Wands for the first week, Six through Ten the second wee, and then the court cards for that suit. That way we could get through the deck quicker instead of meandering through.

I am an organized Virgo by heart LOL, so this appeals to me, what do you think?I like your suggestion and it seems doable. I have a lot of time on my train rides home from work and may bring my laptop on the train or journal my observations and transcribe them at night. Perhaps we can do one Major per week as well?

I don't want to be overly ambitious, so this is where the unstructured part comes in. We can work through the Minors at our own pace so if we fall off a bit, there is no guilty conscious.

If you (not intended for BelovedK specifically) get to a card first, start a thread!

Yes i'm interested... I have just recieved my 2nd ed Bohemian Gothic and dont have the book. I have spent the last few days reading the comments on the Bohemian Gothic study group, but of course there have been some changes to the cards and I never had the first edition.
I'm a very disordered person and dont care in what order it is done.We are just chatting about different approaches. No rules :).

--

I have never participated in a study group here, and have been on the fence about it since studying just helps us record how we feel about a card at a specific time; the meanings and discoveries often change each time you read a card. But, I really love how these images stimulate me creatively, especially for writing.

BelovedK

14-09-2010, 05:09

Well, so I could take either approach. If we did a major and a half of a suit in a week would that be too much? It *might* be for me as I have writing projects and other things, BUT we could try and see if it is working.

I think for me, seeing progress will be stimulating which is why I l;ike the idea of doing the sequence of cards.

So, if we take that approach, maybe we could do a random Major Arcana.

I am proposing that we start with Wands, Ace through Five, and I just picked Justice from my deck.

I could study tonight and post something tomorrow.

I could start two threads. One for the Major 2nd edition, and one for the Wands series (would it work to do a thread for a series? or would it have to be separate cards?

aurarcana

14-09-2010, 05:35

Well, so I could take either approach. If we did a major and a half of a suit in a week would that be too much? It *might* be for me as I have writing projects and other things, BUT we could try and see if it is working.It may be too ambitious. I work full time and do want some downtime at night when I get home. This comes out to a card a day and I don't want to beat myself up if I "miss" one, which means I may double up, etc. on certain days.

I think for me, seeing progress will be stimulating which is why I like the idea of doing the sequence of cards.Agreed. Plus it helps keep the studying element cohesive. That approach may not work for everyone, but if it works for us, we should go with it!

So, if we take that approach, maybe we could do a random Major Arcana.Sure. I'll select a random Major Arcana next week on Monday. Mondays work great (after the weekend).

I am proposing that we start with Wands, Ace through Five, and I just picked Justice from my deck.Sounds like a plan!

I could study tonight and post something tomorrow.I can work on a card or two tonight--either Justice or the Ace of Wands--and post something tomorrow night.

I could start two threads. One for the Major 2nd edition, and one for the Wands series (would it work to do a thread for a series? or would it have to be separate cards?I checked the index for the 1st edition (http://www.tarotforum.net/showthread.php?t=90458) and just like most of the other groups, threads are about specific cards, however, there were two threads about the suits. I think that threads on each card may work best (one thread for each card in Major and Minor Arcana), but if we feel like we want to create a thread about all of the cards in the suit (with shorter notes), we can if we wish. Let's see what happens.

aurarcana

14-09-2010, 05:40

I can't express how thrilled I am. Finally, some commitment (from me!) :laugh:.

BelovedK

14-09-2010, 05:46

I can't express how thrilled I am. Finally, some commitment (from me!) :laugh:.
Me too!! I thought I was the threadkiller here, LOL. If you notice, the last 2 times the thread died, I was the common denominator :o

I also like studying the suit in sequence, maybe it is the Virgo in me :D

Tonight, it's on!

(I also want to be forgiving with myself if I miss a night. I tend to take on too much and then get overwhelmed.) That said, I think a card a day is no big deal.

aurarcana

14-09-2010, 06:33

We all have lives outside of Tarot and this should be a fun and cathartic activity--a labor of love! I want to relax when I do these. On the train, before bed, whatever.

I did need a push, and I hope my excitement lasts. There is so much going on in these cards, and I truly want to spend time with them...now. My limited edition Queen of Wands bag came today, and yes, I will be using it :).

BelovedK, regarding Majors, do you want to alternate weeks (you drew Jutice this week; I draw next week; etc.) or do you prefer if we each draw one to keep it random? I thought about this after my last post. It may help each of us focus one major focus (no pun intended), each week. Just a thought.

(Again, to others reading this, this is just BelovedK and my rant on how we are planning on tackling the cards. Create threads/post away as you deem fit.)

BelovedK

14-09-2010, 09:07

I like the idea of alternating weeks. You pick next week. Actually, Justice is one of my least favorite cards in this deck, not sure why, BUT I drew it for a reason and just want to dig into why it bothers me.

I hope the excitement lasts for me too! I think it will, I have wanted a study buddy for a while, so much to learn. I like the idea of bouncing my thoughts off of someone else's. I learn much better through dialogue, so this is great.

I am going to dream the Ace of Wands tonight ;)

I might blog my revelations once a week at least through October (spooky month, ha)

aurarcana

14-09-2010, 09:42

I like the idea of alternating weeks. You pick next week. Actually, Justice is one of my least favorite cards in this deck, not sure why, BUT I drew it for a reason and just want to dig into why it bothers me.Done. I'll draw one one week (aiming for Sunday or Monday) and will create a thread when I do.

I hope the excitement lasts for me too! I think it will, I have wanted a study buddy for a while, so much to learn. I like the idea of bouncing my thoughts off of someone else's. I learn much better through dialogue, so this is great.Likewise. I love to write about cards as well, so this will be a great experience and will stimulate us in unique ways as we interpret the cards. I am sure that we will each see different things in them :thumbsup:.

I am going to dream the Ace of Wands tonight ;)Ha! Me too. I am going to spend some time with it before I go to bed and will write down my observations on my way home from work. I have my old small MacBook (not my regular MacBook) packed away in my bag so that I am ready to bond with my cards in a public place. PDTDA = public display of Tarot deck affection!

I might blog my revelations once a week at least through October (spooky month, ha)I haven't blogged in months. I was experiencing some writer's block and general apathy running it, and that explains why I stopped; it became a chore. I'm ready to give it a new life with this study. I lost all of my readers, but in the end, I set the blog up for me.

Until tomorrow.

TreeLeafe

14-09-2010, 10:50

Libra8ca

14-09-2010, 10:56

I'd love to participate too. I've been using my BG quite a bit over the last year so this should be easy for me. Looking forward to everyone's input :) 5-6 cards a week sounds good to me.

aurarcana

14-09-2010, 11:24

I'm interested in studying with you all!
So it's 5 minor cards a week plus a major?
That's doable to me. :)
I'm not familiar with the BG series or its symbolism so I'll try my best to add lots of input and after a while I'm sure I'll be jumping in with the rest of you all.Hooray!

Yes, we (so far BelovedK and I) are starting with the Wands first, so the game plan is Ace - 4 this week and a Major that she drew (Justice). Feel free to start a thread whenever you want if this doesn't work for you :). The study group is free flowing. We just came up with something that works for us and we will see how everything goes.

I am signing off to shower and bond with my Ace of Wands. This deck is going everywhere with me as of tomorrow.

I'd love to participate too. I've been using my BG quite a bit over the last year so this should be easy for me. Looking forward to everyone's input :) 5-6 cards a week sounds good to me.Great. We have a group :thumbsup:.

TreeLeafe

14-09-2010, 12:23

Awesome. So where do we go to post our findings? Will there be a thread per card or a thread per suit? Who will post the thread that we're to report to?

And yes, my new sidekick is officially the BG.

BelovedK

14-09-2010, 20:06

I don't mind posting the thread. I'll get to it later today. The Ace of Wands. I'll also post Justice (though I've only gotten to the Ace so far. Look for this by the end of the afternoon.

I am so excited to have others to help me get deeper into this deck.

aurarcana

14-09-2010, 20:37

^ Great, and I'll post in it today (maybe both, not sure).

I'm excited too! I will stay commited * repeats to self *.

Awesome. So where do we go to post our findings? Will there be a thread per card or a thread per suit? Who will post the thread that we're to report to? Anyone can start the thread, just make sure to title it "Bohemian Gothic 2nd ed. - card or remaining thread title" and PM Sulis so that she can add it to the 2nd ed. index. If you want to create threads for any cards and not follow our "study" order, do what works for you. No rules. This study is for anyone :).

My deck is in my bag and will be with me at all times so that I can write down (type out) my thoughts on my train rides home. Hooray for great use of a 1 1/2 hour commute ;).

BelovedK

14-09-2010, 20:55

I should make the entries in the last thread Sulis started? and I know to PM her when I do :)

aurarcana

14-09-2010, 21:04

I should make the entries in the last thread Sulis started? and I know to PM her when I do :)No, create a new thread and PM her the thread title and link. Then, she wil add it to the index thread (the index thread just lists the threads in it). If you view the 1st. ed. index, you can see how these study groups work :).

This is my first one as well.

aurarcana

14-09-2010, 21:10

The guidelines (http://www.tarotforum.net/showthread.php?t=136504) are quite helpful and explain everything clearly too :).

BelovedK

15-09-2010, 00:07

I just posted an Ace of Wands thread. I have a hard time with cards that have no human figures, but I posted what little I di get. Please go add to it :) I should now go look it up in the book :)

TreeLeafe

15-09-2010, 01:11

I think that someone can benifit greatly from joining a study group for this deck. When I looked at the cards first I sat there and thought "Woah..." There's just so much to this deck and I feel lost trying to read the cards without actually analyzing them.

aurarcana

15-09-2010, 03:51

I just posted an Ace of Wands thread. I have a hard time with cards that have no human figures, but I posted what little I did get. Please go add to it :)I used to have issues with cards that I thought seemed bare in symbolism or imagery and journaling about them helped tremendously. I also used Free Association - look at the card, focus and completely take it in. Then, put it face down and write down everything that comes to mind: keywords, scenes or images that you saw, sounds, smells, anything. It's often interesting what comes up.

I should now go look it up in the book :)You know, I sold my book * wipes away tears *. I went through a period where I wanted nothing to do with the deck due to bad experience involving buyers regret after overspending on a Silver edition, which resulted in me selling it and it going astray internationally according to the buyer. Thankfully PayPal took pity on me and didn't hold me accountable, but I then sold by standard 1st edition and book when I swore that I'd never want anything to do with it again. I always loved the artwork, and here I am now.

Does anyone want to lend me their book? I can mail it back to you within a week * still sobbing *? I don't have the nerve to post another ISO for it :laugh:.

I think that someone can benifit greatly from joining a study group for this deck. When I looked at the cards first I sat there and thought "Woah..." There's just so much to this deck and I feel lost trying to read the cards without actually analyzing them.Agreed. I'll post my thoughts later tonight. I read the Ace of Wands and love how we are all seeing different things in the imagery.

aurarcana

15-09-2010, 09:29

I posted Justice (http://www.tarotforum.net/showthread.php?t=146497) and the Two of Wands (http://www.tarotforum.net/showthread.php?t=146498). Time well spent on the train home today ;).

BelovedK

15-09-2010, 11:29

I was just coming on to post that I didn't have time to post Justice, so this is great!

I'll have to go read tomorrow.

TreeLeafe

15-09-2010, 12:28

Its only day two and I'm loving this group. So many different ways of seeing one card. I'm also picking up things that I didn't quite see before.
This is so much fun! I never knew studying could be so awesome. LOL

BelovedK

17-09-2010, 19:31

Can anyone start the 3 of Wands? I am not able to this morning (must not put off dance practice) I can study during the day and post this afternoon :)

aurarcana

17-09-2010, 22:55

Can anyone start the 3 of Wands? I am not able to this morning (must not put off dance practice) I can study during the day and post this afternoon :)I will :).

Here is the Three of Wands (http://www.tarotforum.net/showthread.php?t=146677) thread.

Master_Margarita

19-09-2010, 01:15

There is a photo album with side-by-side comparisons of a number of the cards in the first and second editions on FB here (http://www.facebook.com/ruth.laura.edlund?v=wall&story_fbid=150676218298850&ref=notif&notif_t=share_comment#!/album.php?aid=207145&id=53690237671&ref=mf). This is public, anyone can see the photos.

:heart: M_M~

aurarcana

20-09-2010, 02:56

I just posted the thread for the Bohemian Gothic (2nd Edition) Four of Wands (http://www.tarotforum.net/showthread.php?t=146752).

LizA

20-09-2010, 06:53

Thanks MM for posting this. It makes it much easier for the novice to determine what edition they have.

aurarcana

20-09-2010, 10:58

^ Agreed!

BelovedK, I just posted the thread for Bohemian Gothic (2nd Edition) The World (http://www.tarotforum.net/showthread.php?p=2473679). I just feel this card so. This is our Major for the week :).

greatdane

20-09-2010, 11:04

aurarcana

20-09-2010, 11:27

Anyone else journaling card by card? I started going through the BG (am into last suit right now), jotting down my initial thoughts about each card, looking through lwb, a couple of my tarot books for perhaps other options I hadn't thought of, in other words, just immersing myself into the cards one at a time and kind of introducing myself to them and hoping they will do the same! It's been a very worthwhile journey and am thinking of it as a prelude before really getting into a study group.Hi greatdane :). Yes, BelovedK, myself, and I think some others are doing this right now. I am creating threads as I go along. BelovedK and I are working on about four Minors a week in order (if possible) and one Major (drawn randomly; we are alternating weeks). Others are following along, but anyone can post a thread at any point. Right now, this Study Group actually feels like one :thumbsup:.

This deck is becoming a very special one for me. The cards just pour out so much information, easier than I thought they would. This little deck speaks to me and is becoming a close friend.

Hope you join us!

greatdane

20-09-2010, 11:35

aurarcana

20-09-2010, 11:45

I appreciate that feedback! And DITTO! I was wondering how the deck would read for me (even though I thought it was soo great before I even got it! I didn't have any other BG's before the pewter!) and am enjoying it immensely. It is a different read for me than some other RWS, but then I expected and wanted that! I will indeed try to follow along and for right now am going to go in and start reading all your thoughts! :-)))

GD:D. Likewise about the readability factor. I went into this study thinking I wouldn't focus on just this deck, but it is the only one I have been using, save for some other decks that I am using in the Reading Exchange circles. For some reason, right now, I just want to take in everything about this deck in order. That may change. I have two pewters, but one has two badly damaged cards (ruined corners - eek! due to packaging), so I am keeping my one study deck in order. I plan on getting a standard 2nd. edition, so when that comes, I can shuffle the pewter and use the standard to study with. I also have the 1st edition kit on the way with the deck and book, which will make for some great reading and deck comparisons :thumbsup:.

I am reading the images--creating stories with the cards. I am using background knowledge of course, but am truly trying to read what I see. There are so many layers - love it.

I am quite smitten right now. Indeed. The Dark Sister has taken me.

OctoberGwen

20-09-2010, 12:12

There are so many layers - love it.

I am quite smitten right now. Indeed. The Dark Sister has taken me.

Yes, she is something, isn't she?

I'm enjoying reading all your thoughts. The BoGo is like no other. :heart:

BelovedK

20-09-2010, 12:38

The Dark Sister has really taken me too :love:

I have been a bit behind, but need to catch up with the four of Wands, and the Five, and The World (another favorite, thanks aurarcana)

I hole a small lunch hour class tomorrow, and if no one shows I will use the time to study (sadly, it is not always crowded at that hour)

aurarcana

21-09-2010, 02:39

Yes, she is something, isn't she?

I'm enjoying reading all your thoughts. The BoGo is like no other. :heart:Oh, she is. I just never saw the deck that way and now that I do, I can see how it may become an emotional one for me.

The Dark Sister has really taken me too :love: :D.

I have been a bit behind, but need to catch up with the four of Wands, and the Five, and The World (another favorite, thanks aurarcana)

I hole a small lunch hour class tomorrow, and if no one shows I will use the time to study (sadly, it is not always crowded at that hour)No rush and take your time :love:.

BelovedK

21-09-2010, 05:01

aurarcana

23-09-2010, 05:41

Well.... no one showed :( It was my Creative Fusion (through Tarot) class, and I did get to really ponder the cards while I waited, will post after I get my kids from school :)

I am keeping this Pewter 2nd Ed deck in order for now, and once I am ready, I will start using it. ITM, I have the 1st Ed. Wow though, if only people had of known we were going to use the BG deck for our inspiration this week, they would've showed up :-/If they only knew...

I'll post a few Minors tomorrow. I knew this week was going to be crazy ;).

ETA: I have the last batch of cards (5,6,7,8) all written up and just need to type them!

BelovedK

27-09-2010, 20:26

Just want to say that I am still here, was waylaid for a couple of days due to some distressing personal things :( I am going to turn to the Dark Sister today though, and catch up :)

aurarcana

27-09-2010, 21:10

Just want to say that I am still here, was waylaid for a couple of days due to some distressing personal things :( I am going to turn to the Dark Sister today though, and catch up :):). See, this is why dates aren't important :laugh:. My 1st edition and book should be here anyday now too. Plus, I'm still waiting for replacement cards for my back-up pewter. When they come, I can shuffle the other deck!

Work should be less crazy this week, which means I'll be more relaxed at night.

ETA: Life has been crazy. I am still using the deck (at least viewing the cards every day), but the Study Group has sadly become a chore again. We'll see what happens :).