Let Spirit guide you, with this 22-card Major Arcana deck, which I designed before writing The Coonkin Chronicles, and which became the inspiration for Twitch the Witch's Tarot deck used throughout Book 1: "The Adventures of Twitch the Witch."

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Card Meanings

0 - The Fool

When The Fool appears upright, it represents the ultimate "Leap of Faith." As the first card of the Major Arcana, it symbolizes a blank slate, infinite potential, and the beginning of a significant new journey. It captures the spirit of innocence, curiosity, and boundless optimism. This card encourages you to embrace the unknown with an open heart and trust that the universe will provide a safety net. It is a "green light" to follow your intuition and take a risk, even if you don't yet have all the answers or a finalized plan.

When reversed (upside-down), The Fool's carefree energy can turn into recklessness, or even a refusal to move forward. On one hand, it may warn that you are acting impulsively, without considering the consequences, and essentially "jumping without looking" into a situation that requires a more grounded approach. On the other hand, it often signals a hesitation to start a necessary new chapter due to fear of the unknown or "imposter syndrome." In this state, the card suggests you may be blocked by your own doubts or are ignoring your own intuition, urging you to find a balance between your desire for freedom and your practical responsibilities.

I - The Magician

Upright, The Magician is a powerful card of manifestation and personal willpower, bridging the gap between the spiritual and physical worlds. It signals that you have all the tools necessary to make your dream a reality: the intellect, the emotion, the drive, and the resources. It represents a time of high energy, focus, and "magic" where your intentions align with your actions. This card encourages you to take a disciplined approach and stay conscious of your power as you currently possess the unique ability to turn a creative spark into a tangible achievement.

When reversed (upside-down), The Magician often indicates a misuse of power, manipulation, or unrealized potential. It may suggest that you have great ideas but are struggling with the follow-through, perhaps feeling "tricked" by your own lack of organization or self-doubt. In some cases, it warns of someone in your life who is being deceptive or using their influence for selfish gains. Alternatively, a reversal can mean that you are feeling uninspired or disconnected from your talents. It serves as a reminder to check your motivations and ensure you aren't letting your skills go to waste through procrastination or a lack of clear intent.

II - The High Priestess

The High Priestess represents the realm of the subconscious, mystery, and sacred knowledge when she appears upright. While The Magician is about outward action, The High Priestess is about inward reflection and waiting for the right moment. She sits at the threshold of the known and the unknown, suggesting that the answers you seek are currently found within your intuition rather than through logic or external advice. This card is a call to trust your "gut feelings," pay attention to your dreams, and look beyond the surface of a situation to find the deeper truth hidden beneath.

When reversed (upside-down), The High Priestess suggests a disconnection from your own inner voice, or a tendency to ignore your intuition in favor of others' opinions. It can indicate that you are feeling overwhelmed by external "noise" or that you are keeping secrets that are becoming a burden. In this orientation, the card often warns that you are rushing into a situation without fully understanding the underlying dynamics, or perhaps you are suppressing your psychic hits because they feel irrational. It is a prompt to slow down, find some silence, and reconnect with your inner wisdom to regain your clarity.

III - The Empress

When The Empress appears upright, she embodies the archetype of the Earth Mother, representing abundance, fertility, and the nurturing of life. Following The High Priestess's focus on the subconscious, The Empress brings those hidden seeds into the physical world, manifesting them as growth, creativity, and sensory pleasure. She is a reminder to connect with nature and your own body, signaling a time of "ripening" where projects or relationships are ready to flourish. This card is a an invitation to embrace your creative power and lead with compassion, suggesting that the most effective way to move forward is through kindness and a focus on the beauty in your surroundings.

When reversed (upside-down), The Empress suggests a blockage in creative flow or a struggle with self-worth. It often points to a "smothering" energy, either that you are over-nurturing others to the point of neglecting yourself, or that you are acting with a controlling, overbearing nature that stifles the growth of those around you. This reversal can also indicate a period of stagnation or "creative infertility," where you feel uninspired or disconnected from your senses. It serves as a gentle but firm prompt to stop looking for external validation and to redirect that mothering energy inward, focusing on self-care and replenishing your own resources before trying to care for the world.

IV - The Emperor

When appearing upright, The Emperor represents the pinnacle of structure, authority, and masculine leadership. Following the nurturing energy of The Empress, The Emperor brings order to the world through logic, discipline, and clear boundaries. He is the "Father" archetype of the tarot, symbolizing a stable foundation, strategic planning, and the establishment of rules. In this orientation, the card encourages you to take command of your life, act with conviction, and use your organizational skills to protect and provide for your ambitions. It is a sign that success will come through grit and systemic effort rather than luck.

When reversed (upside-down), The Emperor often signals an abuse of authority or a lack of discipline. On one side, it can represent your or someone close to you having "tyrant" energy, being overly controlling, rigid, or domineering to the point of crushing creativity and freedom. It may also indicate a total lack of structure, suggesting that a project or life situation is failing because there is no leadership or clear plan in place. In this orientation, it warns against being too stubborn or inflexible, urging you to re-evaluate your relationship with power and find a way to lead with wisdom rather than just force.

V - The Hierophant

Upright, The Hierophant represents tradition, spiritual wisdom, and established belief systems. Often seen as the bridge between humanity and the divine, he symbolizes the "formal" path of learning, including institutions, mentors, and structured rituals. While The High Priestess deals with private intuition, the Hierophant deals with communal knowledge and the "right way" of doing things. In a reading, this card suggests that you may benefit from following a proven roadmap, seeking counsel from an expert, or adhering to a structured system rather than trying to reinvent the wheel.

When upside-down (reversed), The Hierophant signifies non-conformity, rebellion, or outdated beliefs. It suggests a time where the "old way" is no longer working for you, and you may feel the urge to challenge the status quo or break free from societal expectations. On a personal level, it can indicate that you are being too rigid or dogmatic, or perhaps you are following a leader or tradition that no longer aligns with your personal values. This orientation encourages you to trust your own inner compass over external authority and to find your own unique path, even if it means going against the grain of the establishment.

VI - The Lovers

When upright, The Lovers represent more than just romantic relationships; it symbolizes harmony, alignment, and the power of choice. On a surface level, it often points to deep, soulful connections with a partner built on mutual trust and shared values. On a deeper level, it represents an internal "marriage" of the mind and heart, signaling a moment where you must make a significant decision that defines who you are. This card encourages you to get clear on your personal values before acting, as the path you choose now will have a lasting impact on your life's direction and sense of integrity.

When reversed (upside-down), The Lovers indicates disharmony, imbalance, or a difficult choice being avoided. It may suggest that you are out of sync with yourself or a partner, perhaps because you are prioritizing short-term desire over long-term values. In a relationship context, it can point to fear of commitment or a breakdown in communication that is creating a rift. Frequently, this reversal signals and internal conflict where you are struggling to reconcile two opposing parts of your life. It serves as a reminder to take responsibility for your choices and to stop looking for external fixes for what is ultimately an internal misalignment.

VII - The Chariot

An upright Chariot is the card of willpower, determination, and victory through focus. It is a card of action that portends success, provided you maintain your discipline and stay the course. It signals that you have the internal strength and confidence to overcome any obstacles in your path, moving forward with speed and authority.

When upside-down (reversed), The Chariot often signals a loss of control or directionless energy. It may suggest that you're being pulled in too many directions at once, at the expense of your own goals, or that your ego is driving you toward a goal that isn't truly right for you. Sometimes, it warns of roadblocks where your momentum has been halted by external circumstances or internal self-doubt. In its more shadow-heavy sense, it can represent someone who is trying to force their way through life with sheer ruthlessness, ignoring the needs of others. This reversal is a sign to pull back the reins, re-evaluate your path, and regain your composure, before you lose your way entirely.

VIII - Strength

When Strength appears upright, it represents the quiet power of the human spirit and the mastery of raw emotions. Strength conquers through compassion, patience, and a steady but firm control. It encourages you to approach challenges with grace and resilience, suggesting that your greatest asset right now is your inner composure and your ability to stay calm under pressure.

When reversed (upside-down), this card indicates a lack of self-control, with actions being ruled by temperamental emotions. You might be feeling overwhelmed by your impulses or drained by a situation that has exhausted your patience. It often signals that your inner critic has taken over, causing you to doubt your abilities or act out of insecurity. It can also point to a reliance on "brute force" rather than diplomacy, which may be backfiring. This reversal is a call to reconnect with your internal reserves, practice self-compassion, and remember that true power comes from a steady heart rather than an aggressive hand.

IX - The Hermit

When the Hermit appears upright, it signals a time for soul-searching, introspection, and retreating from the chaotic noise of the world. Representing "Inner Light," this card suggests that the answers you need cannot be found in external sources or social validation. Instead, they require quiet solitude and deep self-reflection. It is a period of seeking your own truth and becoming a "lamp unto yourself." The Hermit encourages you to take a step back from a situation and gain a broader perspective, emphasizing that a temporary withdrawal is not an act of loneliness, but a necessary step toward spiritual or personal maturity.

When upside-down (reversed), The Hermit often points to isolation, loneliness, or refusing to face the truth. It may suggest that you have withdrawn too much, becoming a "recluse" who is avoiding the world out of fear or social anxiety. It can also mean that you are so busy or distracted that you are failing to take the time for necessary reflection, leading to a feeling of being lost or disconnected from your purpose. It serves as a warning that you might be ignoring your inner wisdom or that your desire for independence has turned into a stubborn refusal to accept help when it's actually needed.

X - Wheel of Fortune

When The Wheel of Fortune card appears upright, it signifies a turning point, often bringing a stroke of good luck, serendipity, or unexpected opportunities. This card suggests that the universe is working in your favor, pushing you toward your destiny through external forces that are often beyond your control. It encourages you to remain adaptable and optimistic, as the "wheel" is currently ascending, signaling a phase of growth, expansion, and positive change.

When the card is reversed (upside-down), it typically represents a period of resistance, setbacks, or a feeling that "luck" has run dry. It doesn't necessarily mean permanent failure, but rather a phase where you may feel caught in a cycle of misfortune or struggling against changes that are inevitable. The reversal often suggests that you are clinging to control in a situation where the best course of action is to let go and wait for the storm to pass. It serves as a lesson in impermanence, urging you to reflect on what you can learn from this low point so that you are better prepared when the wheel inevitably begins its upward turn once more.

XI - Justice

Upright, Justice signifies a need for balance, fairness, and objective thinking. This card suggests that a decision is being made or a situation is being resolved in a way that is ethically correct and just. It serves as a reminder that your past actions have led to your current circumstances, the "harvest" of what you have sown. If you are involved in legal matters or a significant dispute, Justice indicates a favorable and honest outcome, urging you to stay grounded in integrity and to weigh all sides of a situation before reaching a conclusion.

Reversed (upside-down), it often points to unfairness, dishonesty, or a refusal to take accountability for one's actions. It may indicate that a decision has been made that feels biased or that you are being treated unjustly by others. On an internal level, a reversal can suggest that you are being too hard on yourself or, conversely, that you are avoiding the "inner truth" of a situation to escape the consequences. This card in reversal warns against bitterness and blame, encouraging you instead to examine where things went off course and what steps you can take to restore your own personal sense of equilibrium and integrity.

XII - The Hanged Man

The Hanged Man is a card of profound surrender, suspension, and shifting perspectives. When it appears upright, it signifies a period of "waiting" that is actually a spiritual or intellectual necessity. Rather than a sign of stagnation, this card represents a conscious choice to pause and view the world from a different angle, and to approach a problem with a new perspective. It suggests that by letting go of your need to control the outcome and sacrificing a short-term ego desire, you will gain a breakthrough or a new level of enlightenment. It is an invitation to embrace the stillness and trust that the "limbo" you are in is actually a fertile ground for growth.

When upside-down (reversed), it often indicates a feeling of being stuck or stalled without the benefit of spiritual insight. Instead of a purposeful pause, the reversal suggests a period of unnecessary sacrifice or procrastination. You might feel like you are spinning your wheels or waiting for someone else to make a move, yet you are unwilling to change your own perspective to break the cycle. It can also represent a "martyr complex," where you are giving up too much of yourself for no real gain. This card in reversal is a nudge to stop resisting the flow of life; it encourages you to quit stalling and either make a definitive decision or finally accept the reality of your situation so you can move forward.

XIII - Death

The Death card is rarely about a literal passing; instead, it represents the profound necessity of endings and the clearing of old paths. When it appears upright, it signifies a major transition, transformation, and the closing of a significant chapter in your life. This card serves as a powerful reminder that for something new to begin, something else must first conclude. It encourages you to let go of outgrown habits, relationships, or beliefs that no longer serve your highest good. While the process of letting go can be uncomfortable, the Death card promises that this ending is the precursor to a vital rebirth and a more authentic way of living.

When reversed (upside-down), it often indicates a resistance to change or a fear of letting go. It suggests that you may be clinging to a situation that has already reached its natural conclusion, preventing yourself from moving forward into a new phase. This resistance can lead to a sense of stagnation, prolonged grief, or being stuck in a limbo state where you feel the weight of the past, but refuse to release it. The reversal serves as a gentle but firm warning that change is inevitable; the longer you fight the transition, the more difficult it becomes. It invites you to examine what you are afraid to lose and to trust that the universe is simply making space for a more meaningful beginning.

XIV - Temperance

The Temperance card is the ultimate symbol of balance, moderation, and the "middle path." Upright, it signifies a period of harmony, patience, and divine timing. It is a sign that you are moving with the flow of life rather than forcing it, and that your current sense of inner peace is a result of self-control and thoughtful integration. It encourages you to stay calm, remain adaptable, and trust that steady, moderate progress will lead to long-term success.

When upside-down (reversed), it indicates a state of imbalance, excess, or "out-of-sync" energy. You may be feeling scattered, overextending yourself in one area while neglecting another, or moving toward extremes that are causing stress and exhaustion. It can also suggest "clashing" elements, where two parts of your life (like a relationship and a career) are in conflict because you haven't yet found the right ratio to make them work together. This card serves as a wake-up call to re-evaluate your habits and restore your equilibrium before the lack of harmony leads to burnout or regrettable, impulsive decisions.

XV - The Devil

The Devil represents the shadow self and the various forms of attachment that can bind the human spirit. It signifies being trapped by materialism, addiction, or unhealthy patterns. This card serves as a powerful mirror, asking you to confront the darker aspects of your nature or the toxic dependencies that are preventing you from living freely, whether they be people, substances, or limiting beliefs. It is a call to recognize that while the temptation to stay in the familiar dark is strong, you hold the power to release yourself.

When reversed (upside-down), it marks a significant turning point of liberation and self-awareness. It suggests that you are beginning to break free from the shackles of a restrictive situation or a harmful habit that has long held you back. You are likely moving through a period of "detox," where you are shedding old skins and reclaiming your personal autonomy. The reversal indicates that the veil of illusion is being lifted, allowing you to see the reality of a situation for what it truly is. While this process of facing your shadows can be intense and uncomfortable, it is a deeply positive sign of spiritual growth, signaling that you are finally ready to take accountability for your life and move toward a state of true independence.

XVI - The Tower

The Tower is perhaps one of the most jarring cards, representing sudden, cataclysmic upheaval. It signifies a "lightning strike" moment where an existing structure in your life is abruptly torn down. This is not a slow, natural transition like the Death card, but a radical and often shocking collapse. While it can feel traumatic, the message of the Tower is that the foundation was fundamentally unstable or built on illusions. The lightning represents a flash of truth that destroys what is false, clearing the ground completely so that you can eventually rebuild something more honest and resilient.

When reversed (upside-down), its energy shifts from an external explosion to an internal struggle. It often indicates that you are aware a crisis is looming, but you are desperately trying to avert it or delay the inevitable. You might be "patching the cracks" in a situation that truly needs to fall apart, which only prolongs the tension and stress. Alternatively, a reversal can mean that you have narrowly avoided a major disaster, or that the upheaval is happening entirely within your own mind, shattering old ego structures and personal paradigms without necessarily ruining your external life. It serves as a warning that resisting this necessary change only makes the eventual impact harder. The card encourages you to stop bracing for impact and instead lean into the transformation so the rebuilding process can finally begin.

XVII - The Star

The Star is the celestial beacon of hope, healing, and spiritual rejuvenation that typically appears after a period of intense upheaval. It signifies a time of deep serenity and a renewed sense of purpose. It represents a "calm after the storm," suggesting that you have endured a great challenge and are now entering a phase of restoration. The card depicts a sense of openness and vulnerability that is empowered rather than weak, and you are encouraged to have faith in the universe and yourself. It is a highly positive omen, indicating that your core essence is being replenished and that you are aligned with your true path, allowing your inner light to shine brightly once more.

When reversed (upside-down), it often points to a lack of faith, feelings of despair, or a "dark night of the soul" where you feel disconnected from your inspiration. Instead of the typical flow of hope, the reversal suggests that you may be focused on the negative, feeling discouraged by past failures or cynical about the future. It can represent a creative block or a spiritual drought where you feel "dimmed" or exhausted. However, the reversal is not a sign of permanent loss; rather, it is a call to tend to your own needs and rediscover what brings you joy. It encourages you to stop looking for external validation and to work on healing the internal wounds that are blocking your ability to see the light at the end of the tunnel.

XVIII - The Moon

The Moon card represents the realm of the subconscious, dreams, and the "gray area" where things are not as they seem. It indicates a time of uncertainty, illusion, and intuition. Much like the moonlight can distort familiar shapes into shadows, this card suggests that you may be navigating a situation where the full truth is hidden or where your fears and anxieties are clouding your judgment. It is an invitation to look beyond the surface and trust your gut feelings rather than cold logic. This is a deeply psychological phase where old traumas or hidden instincts may surface, requiring you to walk through the "darkness" of the unknown with caution and sensitivity to find the clarity that lies on the other side.

When reversed (upside-down), it indicates that the fog is beginning to lift and the truth is starting to emerge. The anxieties or illusions that previously haunted you are being exposed for what they truly are, allowing you to regain your footing. It can signify a release from a period of confusion or the uncovering of a secret that has been kept from you. However, a reversal can also suggest that you are struggling to suppress your intuition or are refusing to acknowledge the subconscious messages being sent to you. It serves as an encouragement that the period of mystery is ending; by facing your shadows directly rather than running from them, you can finally move out of the confusing moonlight and back into the clear light of day.

XIX - The Sun

The Sun card is one of the most positive and radiant cards in the deck, representing success, joy, and absolute clarity. It signals a period of peak vitality and "enlightenment," where confusion has evaporated. Everything is out in the open, and you are likely experiencing a sense of confidence and abundance. This card suggests that you are perfectly aligned with your true self, radiating a warmth that attracts others and fosters growth. It is a green light from the universe, indicating that you have the energy and the clarity to achieve your goals and that you should embrace this moment of unshielded happiness and success.

When reversed (upside-down), however, it doesn't necessarily mean failure or darkness, but rather a "clouded" version of its upright self. It suggests that while success and joy are still present, you might be struggling to see them or fully appreciate them. This could manifest as a temporary dip in confidence, feeling burnt out by too much intensity, or dealing with a bruised ego. Sometimes, a reversal points to unrealistic optimism or a childish refusal to face the responsibilities that come with success. It serves as a gentle reminder to clear away the mental clouds, such as self-doubt or excessive pride, so that you can reconnect with your inner light. The sun is still shining behind the clouds; you just need to shift your perspective to feel its warmth again.

XX - Judgement

Judgement represents a moment of spiritual awakening, reckoning, and the "final call" to step into a higher version of yourself. It brings about a period of profound self-evaluation and the culmination of a long journey. This card suggests that you are reaching a crossroads where you must review your past actions with honesty and clarity, allowing you to let go of old guilt and embrace a new calling. It is a card of absolution, as the universe is giving you a fresh start, provided you are willing to answer the call of your higher consciousness. It often marks a significant life transition where you finally find your true purpose and are ready to be "reborn" into a more authentic existence.

When upside-down (reversed), it often points to self-doubt, inner critic noise, or a refusal to hear the wake-up call the universe is sending. You may be stuck in a loop of self-judgment or lingering over past mistakes, which prevents you from moving forward. This reversal suggests that you are ignoring a necessary change or delaying a major decision because you fear the consequences or don't feel "ready" to face the truth. It serves as a warning that by avoiding this reckoning, you are staying trapped in a state of stagnation. The card encourages you to stop being so harsh on yourself, quiet the external opinions of others, and find the courage to make the choice that you know deep down is right for your growth.

XXI - The World

The World is the final card of the Major Arcana, representing completion, wholeness, and the successful conclusion of a long journey. It means that you have reached a major milestone and achieved a sense of "oneness" with your surroundings. You have learned the lessons of your journey, and are now enjoying the fruits of your labor. This card represents a state of fulfillment where the internal and external worlds are in perfect harmony. It is a celebratory omen of travel, graduation, or the successful realization of a long-term goal, signaling that you are exactly where you are meant to be.

When reversed (upside-down), it suggests a feeling of "unfinished business" or a lack of closure. You may be very close to reaching your goal, but a final piece of the puzzle is missing, or you are cutting corners just as you reach the finish line. This reversal can indicate that you are stuck in a rut, unable to move on to the next chapter because you haven't fully processed or accepted the lessons of the current one. It can also represent a success where you’ve achieved something externally, but you don't yet feel the internal sense of satisfaction you expected. The card encourages you to identify what is holding you back from a clean break so that you can finally step into the new cycle that awaits you.

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All characters, events, and narratives depicted on this site are fictional unless otherwise stated. Any resemblance to real persons or events is purely coincidental.

Entertainment & Personal Reflection Disclaimer: Tarot readings and interpretations provided on this page are offered for entertainment and personal insight purposes only. They are not intended as, and should not be considered, professional, legal, medical, financial, or psychological advice. Any decisions or actions taken based on tarot interpretations are made solely at the reader's own discretion and risk. By using this content, you acknowledge and agree that Edgar Coonkin and The Coonkin Chronicles assume no responsibility or liability for outcomes, losses, or damages resulting from the use or interpretation of this material.

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