The Fool - Analysis

For as long as I can remember, Tarot cards have been a key part of my life. When I was really stuck on a decision or was just overwhelmed by everything going on in my life, I would be encouraged to refer to the cards.

At New Years in 2020, I spent my time collaging and making my own deck of tarot card prints (which are now available for purchase too!) I focused on the major arcana: the first 22 cards of any classic tarot deck that represent an overarching situation or experience in your life. Around that time too, I began recording the tarot readings I did for myself every new and full moon. I would record notes in a small journal and reflect on it at a later date to see what applied and how I could interpret the cards. This helped me to be able to read cards better for my clients in private readings, but I also thought it may be useful to share what I've learned; Now, over two years later, I can pass on my knowledge to new tarot users who may be getting confused or frustrated as they try and figure out what their cards mean.

So let's get into the major arcana cards, shall we?

THE FOOL

The Fool is the first card of the tarot, but it is understood as card #0. Numbers carry a lot of meaning in tarot and if you're into numerology you may find a fair amount of crossover. Zero represents limitless potential according to many sources. It is seen as the beginning and the end, so when we consider it's application to tarot, the Fool traditionally represents the beginnings of something from the ends of something else. Stepping forward almost blindly and embracing the next adventure that awaits you. In reverse, this card could indicate that you're more hesitant to move into your new beginnings, or you're playing it more risky than you may normally feel comfortable doing.

While it is important to consider what The Fool card may be paired with, it is important we have a good understanding of the dynamic the card has. (Please note that this analysis is based on my own recordings. While they may help you to better understand what your deck is telling you, if you feel that the card represents something else to you, trust your own intuition.)

When upright, The Fool often brings a youthful feeling. This may indicate your state of mind or the experience at hand. Perhaps you are entering a new experience or opportunity that makes you feel like you know nothing at all, or you are in child-like awe by things as they are unfolding for you. It can feel nerve-wracking and exciting all at once.

Alternatively, this could represent a person in your life. Someone who may be a literal child, or someone whom you are helping on a new journey. This would be a scenario where more cards helps to build a better picture. Perhaps you are giving someone an opportunity for a fresh start or new beginning in some way. Again, depending on the cards around this one, the situation may be altered, but this is a good way to get a starting idea on what your cards are conveying.

The Fool card can also represent a moment where your worldview shifts. Perhaps you realize you didn't see the whole picture, or you had a misconception of something and now all you have is a blank slate. "Back to square one," as they say! While this may work out positively, sometimes it can be jarring and not feel so good.

When the card is reversed you may be digging your heels in, not wanting to move forward into your new beginning. This may also indicate that you don't want to look at things as objectively, and in turn you're taking risks and proving yourself to be reckless with your time and energy. Consider also the areas of your life you may be turning a blind eye towards if you get The Fool reversed in your reading.

The Fool ultimately asks us to leave behind what we know and step into new ways of existing in the world. Will you walk into your new beginning with wonder or will you try to run from it?