tarot experiment: image vs word

Thread originally posted on the Aeclectic Tarot Forum on 05 Aug 2003, and now archived in the Forum Library.

isthmus nekoi	05 Aug 2003
When reading for myself, I'd always try to formulate a question/ dialogue to use whilst shuffling. It's like literally talking to the deck. But every now and then, I try instead to focus on an image (that related to a greater issue) b/c I find it much easier to concentrate on imagery than words. In this case, while shuffling, I'd picture something in my mind's eye until I was finished. The results of the image based shuffling was always disappointing. If the throw made sense, it would have little to do w/the image - it would be about a completely different issue. But the word based shuffling never fails me despite the fact I don't feel I'm concentrating as hard! I've never formally sat down and tried to experiment w/this though so my observations are 'anecdotal' I guess! Anyone w/similar experiences, or willing to experiment more formally w/this?

MystiqueMoonlight	05 Aug 2003
As an artist I am very much image orientated. Even having words on cards throw me out :) I often use the image concept. Sometimes a question is formulated as a result. With respect to image reading (is that the right way to say it ??:) ). Generally it is just a case of not posing any particular question (sometimes I have so many). I shuffle the cards and then lay them out. Often they will have guidance for me in this way. If I pose a specific question my reading will be blunt and direct. For this my readings generally fall under the "course of action" category.

catti	05 Aug 2003
it seems like it could affect what /which way works. personally; i realized reading your post i do it both ways...i think about my question before hand, set it in my mind, and while i am shuffling i often find myself replaying events /pictures that led up to my question...the more focused i am the better reading it is even if the question wasnt great. what i mean is if i start thinking about what i will make for dinner or if the kids uniforms are ready for school chances are my throw will come out jumbled , no matter how well i formulated my question. but if i visualize things clearly even an open question produces a "good" throw.

Elle	05 Aug 2003
If I really concentrate and actually feel the question in my gut, as it were, I find the spread very easy to read. Warmest, Elle

jmd	06 Aug 2003
It seems that part of the difficulty would be to create an image-issue whilst shuffling. For example, if the reading was about the situation in the middle-east, an image of the general area (as if viewed from a satellite) may be as good a technique as asking a phrased question which seeks to understand the current situation. In many cases, however, the image-creation already projects the 'answer' one wishes. Image-making having similar charecteristics as open questions does not appear to be a skill we tend to develop as a society, and hence may require some effort to initially practice. For example, one may ask quite easily what may need to be addressed or focussed on in a prospective employment interview - quite an open question. When it comes to an equivalent image, I suspect most of us would have difficulties in picturing an image which seeks not for outcome, but the equivalent to the phrased question. This thread certainly brings wonderful reflections to consider!

isthmus nekoi	07 Aug 2003
Oh that's a good point jmd.... I've never read anything to teach you how to make a 'good visualization' in order to divinate. And yes, just like the question, if you don't pick a proper visualization, wish fulfilment can easily start creeping in.... Hm, I'll have to start considering the nature of my visuals now! p.s. thanks to everyone for sharing their experiences...

The tarot experiment: image vs word thread was originally posted on 05 Aug 2003 in the Talking Tarot board, and is now archived in the Forum Library. Read the active threads in Talking Tarot, or read more archived threads.