Tarot Study: The Fool

I'd like to work through the Rider-Waite deck, starting in the Major Arcana. These are my interpretations, based on what I have read and my own experiences in reading over the years.

0: The Fool



The fool is the prankster, the traveler, the seeker, one who moves restlessly bringing excitement and/or havoc in his wake. He dances precariously close to the edge of the precipice, but he hasn't a care in the world. The sun shines on him, his faithful dog jumps eagerly alongside. Everything he owns is contained in the pack on his shoulder and he carries a white rose of purity and innocence.

In a reading the Fool often represents the querent, for the Fool is the Seeker. He can signify a journey or a quest of some kind. He may indicate blind optimism, plunging ahead without thought of consequence.

Reversed, the Fool may suggest impulsive or foolhardy decisions, a leap-before-you-look mentality. It may indicate a journey delayed, or unexpected obstacles.

It's always important to remember that the cards are read together - always take note of the surrounding cards in a reading and use their totality to determine what they might be telling you. And above all, remember that the cards do not tell us what will happen. They are an illustration of the current state of things, and what may unfold if the present course is continued.