Four Pillars Tarot : Princess of Swords

Notes on: The Princess of Swords

(Royal Ambition)

Artist’s Notes:
In some ways, referring to this character as a Princess is as unlikely as calling Deadpool one. Yet the princess of swords will always be there in your face, saying exactly what they think. Not necessarily because of their pedigree but simply because they have watched the adult world and they are convinced that most adults are buffoons at the best of times and that they are so much more sensible. The suspicion dawns on many of us that they may be right. Little Goblins all.
 
 
About the Archetype:
The suit of Swords represents thoughts, ideas, plans and conflicts. Princesses (or Pages as they are called in many decks) represent the grounding or emergence of the energy involved. What happens when a new idea is born into the world full-blown like Minerva, the goddess of wisdom in Greek mythology springing from the forehead of Zeus? There is a thrill of discovery and great enthusiasm to make it a reality. We want everyone to understand and utilize this new thought of ours. We become watchful, ready to take on any challenges or objections that may arise on the way to making our new thought a reality. We may also find ourselves vigilant to make sure someone else doesn’t come along and do it wrong. We move quickly because who knows how long our energy may last or whether we are equal to the task.
The Page of Swords is perceptive and intuitive and full of flashes of insight that he feels the need to make manifest. He may lack the maturity to make it happen, however. He may at his worse have trouble finding the right words to express all that he has to say. He may be over-defensive and may find himself answering challenges with way too much contempt for those whom he feels just do not get it.
 
Astrological Correspondence:
Winter- One way of breaking down the astrological signs is by their placement within one of the four seasons. The Three signs of Winter are Capricorn, Aquarius and Pisces, During the winter, things lie building up their potential to burst forth in the Spring. It is a time of transition and death and Cthonic Energy. It is also a time when one rests on previous accomplishments and work.
 
In a Reading:

 

Fate’s Whisper:

 

When the Princess (Page) of Swords turns up in a reading it often has to do with the need to speak our truth even though we may expect opposition. It may refer to a younger person in our environment who is bright and perceptive but who may be dismissed because of their youth. The card may also refer to the news which we may resist because it has the potential to shake up our comfortable lives. The Page of Swords may also refer to someone who has taken an interest in our lives and is trying to learn more about us. It may also be telling us to clear our minds and consider our approach before we try to communicate our ideas.
The reversed or badly aspected Princess of Swords may be telling us that we have become too hyper-vigilant and that we are jumping at shadows, seeing opposition everywhere. Too often there is a tendency to use perceived obstacles as an excuse to not move ahead in our lives. It may also be telling us that we or someone in our environment is either talking or acting without thinking things through. The card may also indicate that we have become too fearful of expressing ourselves either because we have not thought things through first or because we are unprepared.
In the essence of growth, there will come a time when you recognize something others don’t see. To lay claim to it and hold it can be quite the challenge. Especially when it bears no fruit for a long time. What do we do then? Keep watering the seeds in hopes that something grows or walks away. This test of conviction is what makes the difference between those who fail and climb. Can you cherish that one shred of authenticity under the test of time and hardship? Take the hills and mountains of turmoil that will face you as you climb upward. In many ways, this card is a testament to going through this hardship and still fighting.

 

FOUR PILLARS SOCIETY TAROT: PRINCE OF SWORDS

Notes on: The Prince of Swords

(Fate’s Chosen)

Artist’s Notes:
 
This Prince is a master of debate. He will engage anyone, anywhere at any time. His convictions are genuine and he argues them well but then they are like the weather in New England in the spring. If you dislike them, hang around for five minutes and they will change. He will be just as committed to the new proposition. After all with both Capricorn and Aquarian elements in the mix, two things are for certain. One, that he is Saturnian and challenging and two, his energy is both intense and omnipresent. When he hyper-focuses on you, it is easy to get caught up in his intensity even if that intent is to prove you wrong. What he really seeks though is someone who can show him where he is wrong yet worthy adversaries are few and far between and those who aren’t may as well get dismissed quickly.
 
 
About the Archetype:
 
The suit of Swords represents thoughts, ideas, plans, and conflicts. Knights deal with the transmission and the endurance of the energy, the result of the union of the King’s Force and the Queen’s generative and nurturing of the energy.
 
The Knight of Swords is ready to engage and discuss any viewpoint and show others exactly how they’ve gotten it wrong. He is courageous and ever willing to charge into the fray to fight for what is right. He tends to put such a great amount of force into every action that he may lack staying power after the initial thrusts. He is often unaware of the effect his words and actions may have on others and can become quite puzzled when something he has said or done to champion his current cause or argument has hurt his ‘opponent’. After all, was he not in fact cutting through their misapprehension and showing them the error of their ways?
 
In his mind, they should be thanking him. But then the Prince of Swords not wishing to deal with his own emotional nature can be quite blind to the emotions of others.
 
Astrological Correspondence:
 
21° Capricorn – 20° Aquarius
Elemental: Air of Air
 
Combine the ambition and accomplishment ethic of Capricorn with the creative intelligence and communicative abilities of Capricorn and you have someone who can intellectually convince anyone of anything. They are witty and argumentative and intensely competitive. For them winning may become everything and since they are not burdened with an excess of empathy how they play the game may be somewhat less important. This is somewhat modified by the fact that they do have an acute intellectual understanding of ethical considerations.
 
 
In a Reading:
 
When the Knight of Swords turns up in a reading, it may mean that we are feeling criticized or critiqued in our lives at present. Someone is challenging us directly in a fairly blunt way. Do we accept their criticism, testing it against our own perceptions in an open way or do we fight back? The Knight of Swords suggests that it is best to face this criticism head-on in a non-arrogant way, explaining our point of view gently but firmly. The card may also mean that we have been too passive in the face of criticism, allowing others to manipulate us by making us feel inadequate. The Knight of Swords may also be suggesting that we have been too critical of others and running roughshod over their feelings. The card may also mean depending on its placement that there is bad news in the offering.
 
 
The Knight of Swords reversed or badly aspected may represent someone who charges all over the place, looking for conflict and dragging others into it. He (or she) may be highly manipulative of others using their own emotional natures against them. He leaps without ever looking and charges headlong into situations like a bull in a china shop rather than using any forethought or perception. It may represent a relationship ending in an abrupt surprising way. The card may mean that it is time to go it alone for a while taking stock of where we are in our lives at this time. This card reversal may also indicate delays in travel. The reversed Prince of Swords may also represent someone untrustworthy who has entered into our lives.
–GAR
 
 
Fate’s Whisper:
 
True to the Spider’s Edict two statues were brought forth to serve as a reminder to all who look upon that Power always has a price. Entering the Realm of the Spider one is met by two identical guardians. In unison, each wanderer is asked their intent. Only when power is sought is their true natures revealed. The Iridescent Guardian holds the potential stolen by the choice of the power grabber. Greater purpose and joys held by each of the beings sacrificed are forced upon them to remind one of the prices of this choice. It is only when one understands the opportunities robbed that one cherishes the power one wields.
 
Upon seeing this guardian you are reminded that some opportunities are fueled by the future of those below you. To ensure your growth you are presented many ways to the top. At some point though we begin to take from those around us to ensure certain parts of the future. So is what your taking worth what you are getting?
–NF

FOUR PILLARS SOCIETY TAROT: QUEEN OF SWORDS (ii)

Notes on: The Queen of Swords

(Her Sorrow Remembered)

Artist’s Notes:
 
Our lady of sorrows and of rain. Everyone loves her wit. Only she can handle her pain. She wears sorrow like a garment and does not suffer fools at all. Indeed she has a nice collection of the heads and testicles of those who have wronged her. Still no one gives better advise as her pain has brought wisdom. Though she may prefer luxury and knows how to enjoy it, she withstands hardship even better.
 
Do not come to her unless you wish to know more, for she will not allow you to leave her presence quite as ignorantly as you entered it.
 
 
About the Archetype:
The suit of Swords represents thoughts, ideas, plans, and conflicts. The Queens are the receptive and nurturing form of energy. The Queen of Swords contains both pain and sorrow and the wisdom that results from them. She has faced the conflicts and heartaches that life has had to offer and come through it with understanding. She is cutting and she does not suffer fools gladly. She is also witty, charming, and funny. She gives very good advice borne out of both experience and a keen perception that pierces through the smoke screens that others have thrown up. The Queen of Swords is also very much her own person. She has little fear of standing out in a crowd and anyone who dares criticize will find themselves quickly cut down by the sharpness of her tongue. Despite her somewhat sarcastic wit, there is usually a graciousness about the Queen of Swords as if yes she sees our drawbacks but knows what it is to overcome them as well. Only at her worst does the Queen of Swords lose this forbearance and understanding and descend to bitterness.
 
 
Astrological Correspondence:
 
21° Virgo – 20° Libra
Elemental: Water of Air
 
Virgo’s practicality and awareness and Libra’s love of beauty combine to give this individual a strong sense of appreciation of the aesthetic. They are able to perceive what is worthwhile in everybody and go out of their way to elicit it. They are very helpful and self-aware to a fault and find themselves wounded often when either their regard is not returned or when their humour and help are unappreciated. These individuals tend to be very charismatic and attractive tho they tend to take on the problems of others way too easily and may take life too seriously a good deal of the time.
 
 
In a Reading:
 
When the Queen of Swords shows up in a reading, it might mean that it is time for us to express what we see in an honest and clear fashion rather than beating around the bush. It may also refer to someone in our environment who is that blunt and forthright. She (or he) may seem unfeeling but in reality, she sees that we have been sugarcoating things for way too long. Indeed not only does she feel but she feels deeply and this has given her the insight to see into the heart of the matter. The Queen of Swords knows what it’s like to be hurt and to come through it healed but scarred. What have we learned from our wounds? How have we come through them?
The Queen of Swords may also indicate either a need to withdraw emotionally from the situation or someone who is doing so in our environment.
 
The Queen of Swords reversed can be someone who has been hurt by life and is very very bitter. She (or he) may tear down everything in their environment because they wish the world to feel the pain that they are feeling. Alternatively, they may carry it all inside and poison themselves from the inside (this often expresses as many different degenerative illnesses). This card can also represent someone who is overwhelmed by past sorrow and can not bring themselves to enjoy the present moment.
GAR
 
 
Fate’s Whisper:
 
“When I saw you it was like reality froze. Strife and abundance lost meaning as we dance even if time moved. You may be the ultimate threat to creation but you are its compassion too. It is through you that many can fully quantify lasting fulfilment.”
To be bound to the Spider many thought it pointless. In a time when all was the aftermath of the collapse of the first existence and the dragons feared each pillar. It was the selfish and overdriven wish of one dragon to chase the Spider till he could ignore her. To completely disregard their safety for the sake of personal interest many thought her a Fool. It would take many millennia to be successful but it would bring the greatest joy after that long-fought journey to reach it.
In life, we will reflect on how we approached situations that are long past. Can you see the value in your journey or will the sorrows consume you whole? Like the spider’s Wife, we will struggle to reach our goals it is this struggle that makes us the person we are today. So reflect while you can it means you still have before you reach the top.

NF

FOUR PILLARS SOCIETY TAROT: QUEEN OF SWORDS (i)

Notes on: The Queen of Swords

(Understanding Sorrow)

Artist’s Notes:
 
No one knew where she came from. She carried her authority about her like a cloak made out of the very air. In almost every way she ruled. Especially when she started talking. Anyone hearing her would see their pain reflected in her eyes and they would lose their hearts to her. They were the first but hardly the last as she brought village after village under her sway. Its amazing but not surprising what people will do for a little bit of understanding from someone in command. Life was difficult enough but knowing that someone else carried that level of pain made it more bearable somehow.
 
 
About the Archetype:
 
The suit of Swords represents thoughts, ideas, plans, and conflicts. The Queens are the receptive and nurturing form of energy. The Queen of Swords contains both pain and sorrow and the wisdom that results from them. She has faced the conflicts and heartaches that life has had to offer and come through it with understanding. She is cutting and she does not suffer fools gladly. She is also witty, charming, and funny. She gives very good advice borne out of both experience and a keen perception that pierces through the smoke screens that others have thrown up. The Queen of Swords is also very much her own person. She has little fear of standing out in a crowd and anyone who dares criticize will find themselves quickly cut down by the sharpness of her tongue. Despite her somewhat sarcastic wit, there is usually a graciousness about the Queen of Swords as if yes she sees our drawbacks but knows what it is to overcome them as well. Only at her worst does the Queen of Swords lose this forbearance and understanding and descend to bitterness.
 
 
Astrological Correspondence:
 
21° Virgo – 20° Libra
Elemental: Water of Air
 
Virgo’s practicality and awareness and Libra’s love of beauty combine to give this individual a strong sense of appreciation of the aesthetic. They are able to perceive what is worthwhile in everybody and go out of their way to elicit it. They are very helpful and self-aware to a fault and find themselves wounded often when either their regard is not returned or when their humour and help are unappreciated. These individuals tend to be very charismatic and attractive tho they tend to take on the problems of others way too easily and may take life too seriously a good deal of the time.
 
 
In a Reading:
 
When the Queen of Swords shows up in a reading, it might mean that it is time for us to express what we see in an honest and clear fashion rather than beating around the bush. It may also refer to someone in our environment who is blunt and forthright. She (or he) may seem unfeeling but in reality, she sees that we have been sugarcoating things for way too long. Indeed not only does she feel but she feels deeply and this has given her the insight to see into the heart of the matter. The Queen of Swords knows what it’s like to be hurt and to come through it healed but scarred. What have we learned from our wounds? How have we come through them?
It may also indicate a time when we may need to lead by example of compassion rather than through our knowledge of war or force of will.
The Queen of Swords may also indicate either a need to withdraw emotionally from the situation or someone who is doing so in our environment.
 
The Queen of Swords reversed can be someone who has been hurt by life and is very very bitter. She (or he) may tear down everything in their environment because they wish the world to feel the pain that they are feeling. Alternatively, they may carry it all inside and poison themselves from the inside (this often expresses as many different degenerative illnesses). This card can also represent someone who is overwhelmed by past sorrow and can not bring themselves to enjoy the present moment.
–GAR
 
 
Fate’s Whisper:
 
We all have that strong figure that helps us reflect when we need it. This could be yourself or a loved one. They show us the importance of bearing the emotional weight of our decisions even if we hate it at times. Look to them at this time as you are at the pinnacle of something new. The insight they hold is key to fully grasping what is to come.
 
–NF

FOUR PILLARS SOCIETY TAROT: KING OF SWORDS

Notes on: The King of Swords

(Deliberation)

Artist’s Notes:
 
The Ultimate Strategist is one whom you can perceive but never truly see. His words are wise but he is as opaque as his intentions and as sharp as the bloodied sword at his back. There is cruelty in his nature yet real malice only happens when there is extreme dysfunction in the mix. Otherwise, he will tell you the truth even if the words twist and cause you to burn.
 
Air and Fire are a potent mix. The mixture of the creative/destructive element with the one that spreads and disseminates, you are in for a barrage of new perspectives that will challenge existence itself. Most beings whether they be animals, humans, or universes are not that open to having their perspective changed.
 
There is something to be said for people who have strong moral codes. These codes guide them through almost any situation and give them a strong sense of identity. This works of course until the inevitable day comes when they are faced with a paradox. Two courses of action spring up, both of which are right yet contradictory in their nature. When this happens these moral codes unless they have some flexibility built intend to become brittle and break.
 
Far better to know that paradox is inevitable and that circumstances change things. This does not mean that one should not have a code that one lives by, only that it needs to be sustaining rather than constraining and that one should allow room for growth in their understanding of their own code of honour. That is why at his best, the King of Swords applies thought to his actions
 
 
About the Archetype:
 
The suit of Swords represents thoughts, ideas, plans and conflicts. Kings are the leaders, the shakers, the initiatory force or person that gets things moving.
 
The King of Swords is a great military commander and an insightful strategist. As shrewd as he is though, he is a man of action and will often bring his full intensity to bear on whatever cause has most recently gathered his attention. His impulse is to act with thought as opposed to reflect and then act, an important distinction. He is a shrewd judge of character and offers great advice on practical matters such as business and law. He tends to have a strong moral code and does well as long as he does not find himself in a situation where he has to act contrary to it. Consider Javert in Les Miserables. As long as he is convinced that is is correct in his pursuit of Jean Valjean then he is able to continue his pursuit unceasingly. However, when he is forced to question his own sense of right and wrong, he cannot survive it. The King of Swords also has strong debating skills with a mastery of language use.
 
 
Astrological Correspondent:
 
21° Taurus – 20° Gemini
Elemental: Fire of Air
 
Taurean’s rigidity and steadfastness mixed with Gemini’s sociability and interest in communication make for a very dynamic combination. This individual will want to test himself against any new idea or concept that comes his way not because he is open to changing his viewpoint but to prove that what he believes can hold its own against any comers. He has a strong drive to succeed in every endeavour but to bring as many others along for the ride as possible. At his best, he is a loyal and steadfast friend. At his worst, he is a harsh martinet who will place his standards and moral code above that of friendship.
 
 
In a reading:
 
When the King of Swords occurs in a reading there may be a legal or business matter that we need advice on. It may represent any type of problem where a logical and analytical mind can help us see the right course of action. It is definitely a time when swift action is necessary. It may also represent a time when we need to take responsibility for choices that have been made even if the choice was to delegate the matter to someone else. The King of Swords may also represent someone who has come into our life and is both logical and somewhat autocratic. This person gives great advice when asked but we may often feel judged in this person’s presence.
 
When the King of Swords is reversed or badly aspected, then either we or someone in our environment may be having serious control issues. The reversed King of Swords likes to throw his weight around and fully expects people to fall into line and may be quite harsh and cutting when this does not happen. There is a strong streak of cruelty in the reversal of this card and control and arrogance are everything to this person at this time. The King of Swords reversed may also refer to someone who is looked upon as an authority who finds himself unable to make a decision. This may have happened because there is nothing in his rule book that has prepared him for the present circumstances.
–GAR
 
Fate’s Whisper:
 
Part of what makes the Spider so worrisome is his Gift to control the absoluteness of your existence. While weird he is a being also known as the King of the Forsake/Forgotten. To ensure life is flowing forwards he manages the flow that stagnates, leading to a fate worse than death, greater existences alike. In his own words the spider says:
 
“To bear the Shadow of Existence and all that seeks to destroy our creation means to take on the burden of my greatest action. For my siblings may hold the seeds of peace but I hold the first spark of war and conflict. It is also my choice that made the recurring mistake we called our greatest treasure, the existence that came from our clash and formed our purpose.”
–NF

FOUR PILLARS SOCIETY TAROT: TEN OF SWORDS

Notes on: The Ten of Swords

(Requiem)

Artist’s Notes:
 
Well he doesn’t look at all well, does he? He sure is ornamental though. Seriously, this is the card that many readers do not want to see pop up in a reading. This is somewhat fair as it is basically what is left on the stage at the end of a Shakespearian tragedy. The ending has happened and now those characters who have been killed await the signal to rise up again and to go home awaiting the next night’s drama. The catharsis for tonight has already happened and now it can be released.
 
To me, the word release is more important than destruction or desolation in speaking of this card. After all, the torment that comes with the Nine of Swords is much worse as that feels as if it will never end while here the ending has happened and peace has been achieved.
 
 
About the Archetype:
 
The suit of Swords represents thought, ideas, plans, and conflicts. Tens show the ultimate completion of the energy involved leading ultimately to a new beginning.
 
If the story of the suit of Swords is about how one interacts with ideas and ideologies, then a true mark of the success of the suit is how well we can integrate a new way of thinking into ourselves. At the end of the journey, what is not incorporated and made purely ours is destroyed. The only truth that exists is that which we can internalize. Any concept that is truly not a part of ourselves cannot exist inside of us as the ensuing cognitive dissonance will lead to ruin. This ruin will destroy every aspect of ourselves until it is resolved and our mindsets once again find themselves in balance.
This is true, whether we are talking about individuals, groups, or even countries.
 
Nothing is ever permanently destroyed, however. Ruination leads eventually to a new beginning with a clear playing field. After all, after ruin, there is nothing else to lose.
 
 
Astrological Correspondence:
 
Sun in Gemini- This energy is an extremely mutable and active one, ever dancing from one idea to the next never stopping to rest. Sun in Gemini loves to reinvent itself, establishing a new way of being even as it leads the old one to fend for itself even if it means leaving it to ruin. Gemini being the sign of the twins tends to be of two minds in just about every area often in conflict with itself tho very rarely is the conflict taken as seriously by the Sun in Gemini as it is by the others drawn into the conflict.
 
 
In a Reading:
 
When the Ten of Swords comes up in a reading, it may mean that things have become about as bad as they can be. Almost anything that we’ve considered important has been taken from us and there is very little if anything left to lose. In some cases, it may be a matter of disappointment as something that we have set up for ourselves has failed to materialize but then how realistic were we in the first place? This card may be reflecting worries and fears that we have rather than the actuality of ruin so it is good to see both the position and the other cards surrounding the Ten of Swords to gather more insight. However, the best thing about the feeling that there is nothing left to lose is that if we’re still here then there is the chance of rebuilding again from the ground up and establishing a new life, informed by our past, without the circumstances and problems that led to things collapsing in the first place.
 
Ultimately though, the only parts of ourselves that we can lose are the parts that were not truly ours in the first place.
The Ten of Swords reversed in a reading may mean that the collapse has happened and a new beginning has started. It can also mean that we have been managing barely to stave off the total disaster that is hovering over us and either we need to extricate ourselves from either the situations or mindsets that are causing conflict or things will become dire. In either case, Ten of Swords reversed shows a need for clarity on how we want our lives to be and the follow-through to take the necessary steps to avoid the circumstances that we have just come through.
–GAR
 
 
Fate’s Whisper:
 
One of the more tame hobbies the Spider of Fate partakes in is gardening a special flower. This flower thrives in the chaos of death as it consumes the body and soul of any who cant handle touching them. These Eternity Roses are the mark of immortality as they only wither is trampled on, deeming your survival. To feed his Garden the Spider takes the souls of those who chose to do nothing with their lives to nourish them and give them a more excellent value.
As cruel as the Spider is it is essential to know that we all must have that final release. This release lets off weight so we can incorporate new ideas and lifestyles as we go through life. Culling those who waste energy gives room for fresh souls to make their mark on existence without the risk of corrupting the existing pool of possibility. This marks a time when a part of you will die make sure you kill off the right part or it will be much more painful on the way out.
—NF

FOUR PILLARS SOCIETY TAROT: NINE OF SWORDS

Notes on: The Nine of Swords

(The Mind’s Torment)

Artist’s Notes
 
The Golem was brought to life only to be experimented on by having his brain invaded by fresh steel. Even born into service, he suffers the pain of knowing that it will not end by his plan anyway. Call it a metaphor for what many call the Dark Night of the Soul where we are faced with what appears to be our own inadequacies in achieving our goals and ideas as yet another avenue did not work.
There are three laws of Thermodynamics. The first is the law of Conservation of Energy. This states that energy cannot be created or destroyed but merely transformed. In other words, you never end up with more than you started with, or in other words, you can’t win.
The Second Law of Thermodynamics is the Law of Entropy. That is that in a closed system, things will eventually wind down and decay. In other words, you can’t break even.
 
The Third law is the Conservation of Motion. This states that an object at rest stays at rest and an object in motion stays in motion. In other words, you can’t get out of the game.
 
When facing the Dark Night of the Soul or Nine of Swords, your mind closes in on itself and you feel these three principles acutely. You can’t win. You can’t break even. and You can’t get out of the game. The only way through is by realizing that our minds are not closed systems. We are not our minds and we can always die to our present mindset and open ourselves up to start again.
This card is the culmination of the Swords as in the Ten of Swords there is a release that is denied to the golem here
 
 
About the Archetype:
 
The suit of Swords represents thoughts, ideas, plans, and conflicts. The Nines represent a coming to completion of the energy involved if not the completion itself. These energies come together in that dark night of fear and anxiety. The night that many of us experience when we lay awake with every doubt, fear, and recrimination that we can muster. During these nights we tear apart every event in the past and milk it for shame. We look at tomorrow and see every possible misstep that we can make, every disaster that can happen, and every way in which we feel unsafe. We clutch at straws looking for temporary safety, fully realizing that that is what we do.
 
Eventually, we give up even trying to do that. It seems that the only way through this dark night is eventual resignation to whatever is to come.
 
 
Astrological Correspondence:
 
Mars in Gemini – This energy loves to keep busy. As long as there is a lot to do, Mars in Gemini will run around getting the job done, and figuring out the next step on the fly all while engaging in vigorous debate on any subject with anyone they encounter. It is when it is in rest that the difficulties come. The same mental acuity that is used to get the job done turns inward and enervates itself in downtime. The same rapier that it uses to win discussions and debates becomes poniards with which it stabs itself.
 
 
In a Reading:
 
When the Nine of Swords turns up in a reading it often points to a lot of anxiety and sleepless nights. It can possibly be pointing to unresolved guilt from the past or a feeling that we deserve whatever abuse has come our way in the past. It can mean that we are going through what is known as the “dark night of the soul” where we are facing our shadow selves the most intensely. It may mean that we are torturing ourselves for the problems that caused a recent relationship to break apart. When this energy comes up for us, the best course of action is to let these feelings flow through because the more we feed them and try to argue against them, the longer and more intense the conflict may become.
 
The Nine of Swords reversed or badly aspected can mean that our inner conflicts have come to an end and we can now give ourselves a bit of a break. It may also mean however that we have been acting cruelly towards others perhaps without even realizing it. The Nine of Swords reversed may also mean that someone with cruel intentions is acting uncharacteristically nice to us to catch us off our guard.
–GAR
 
 
Fate’s Whisper:
 
Bestowed with senses of the highest form the Spider was fraught with visions of his web when he would be away from it to ensure his works went smoothly. How would you cope if the world around you were nothing but endless visions of events that are to come? Always sceptical of his surroundings it is rare to see the spider truly relax as that only happens when he is home on the Web of Fate.
 
Like fate, we are bombarded with lots of stimuli. When this occurs it is important to know your refuge from those thoughts, even if that means doing some serious shadow work to get it, otherwise, they will consume you in the worst way possible. Wake up from your paranoia before it is too late.
–NF

FOUR PILLARS SOCIETY TAROT: EIGHT OF SWORDS

Notes on: The Eight of Swords

(The Option)

Artist’s Notes:
 
What is a contract anyway? At the end of the day, it is a written agreement stating the benefits that will accrue by sticking with the agreement and the consequences of not doing so. Is one bound to carry out the agreement? If we sign, are we committed for life or for the term of the contract or are we free to walk away? That word free is an interesting one, is it not? Like many words, free has at least two possible meanings. The first meaning refers to cost, as in “Free beer”, “Free love”, and “The first hit is free”. The second has to do with personal liberty and responsibility.
 
We are all free to do whatever we want as long as we are willing to be held accountable for our actions. There is a cost to every choice we make, even if that cost is that we don’t end up with the rewards of the roads not taken. No contract is binding on our actions as long as we are willing to pay the cost of breaking it. Using the last example above, the cost of the second hit is the price we pay when we like the first one a bit too much.
 
Also before you sign the contract, consider the implications that may not be stated outright. You can always prepare yourself for the consequences spelt out in the contract. No contract can handle every possibility a
nd the consequences of words unstated can be unsettling.
 
About the Archetype:
 
The suit of Swords represents thoughts, ideas, plans, and conflicts. Eights deal with the recognition of boundaries and a focus on the energies needed to move on and continue. What happens when thoughts and conflicts get in the way of moving on? We finally have decided to leave our past behind and move on to something new. We gird ourselves to take the first steps. The phone rings. A friend of ours needs our help with a trivial matter. We talk them through it and get ready to get to work. The dogs start barking or the kids need to be picked up at school. We’ll take care of that and get right to what we need to get done. Hmmm, maybe just check our Facebook first. What? How could he say that? After a heated engagement, we once again return and it’s time to make supper. And so it goes. Wow, the whole day has gone by and so little has gotten done? If only there weren’t all these distractions. If only our friends and family could look out for themselves then we could be done with this project already. That is the Eight of Swords energy. We can break our way out of these cycles anytime we want by claiming a space to do the things we need to do and yet we avoid taking the responsibility to do so. This energy also pertains to anytime we use others or our past as an excuse to avoid doing what needs to be done.
 
 
Astrological Correspondent:
 
Jupiter in Gemini – Jupiter in Gemini energy wants to expand all at once in as many different directions as possible. It is highly energized and fantastic at communication and at starting things but quite often there will be a problem with either focusing on one idea or following through even if the focus can be found. Quite often it gives us a wide reach but not a far one. In this case, as in many others, the inherent problems of the aspect also come with a gift. While the focus may be a problem, the Jupiter in Gemini energy does show discernment into what is a minor issue and what is not, allowing us to perceive real issues as opposed to petty concerns.
 
In a Reading:
 
The Eight of Swords in a reading often points out that we are letting ourselves get distracted from what we need to do by minutiae both internal and external. People quite often with the best of intentions might be getting in our way either with advice (either giving or receiving) or with favours that need doing. The distractions may be internal as well as external and this card can often be a call to focus on the important things, freeing ourselves from the things that seek to bind or distract us. When we do find other things or people pulling focus, it is often human nature to blame them rather than take responsibility for our own choices. This card may also mean that we have doubts that we can get the job done even to the point of pretending we don’t care.
 
When the Eight of Swords turns up reversed or badly aspected in a reading, it may mean that we are too focused on the task at hand and need to take a break to return with fresh eyes. It can also mean an even stronger sense of avoiding responsibility and refusing to do what is expected of us even by ourselves. It may mean that we have stopped blaming others for our inability to get things done and have taken the bull by the horns.
–GAR
 
 
Fate’s Whisper:
 
The Spider has earned many names in his existence. Among them, one sits as his honorary title for those who have had the honour of conducting business with him directly, The King of Contractors. The art Daemon kin used to steal valuable souls, Djinn use to expand their vast archives, and many others learned this fabled art from the one who made it. As mysterious as it is to learn, it is just as difficult to grok the limits of it.
There will come a time we are bound to an agreement of some form. Assess what you can control and realize where you put the exit as there will come a time when it will expire. as the Spider once said.
” It’s not what I say…..”
–NF
May be an image of text that says "GAR 2 The Option Eight of Swords"
 
 
 
 
 
 

FOUR PILLARS SOCIETY TAROT: SEVEN OF SWORDS

Notes on: The Seven of Swords

(Futility and Mystdirection)

Artist’s Notes:
 
Many of us like to consider ourselves rebels against the order of society. We break a small rule, usually not even out of principle as out of convenience and set ourselves up as champions who have ‘stuck it to the man.’ Most times though, our real motivations are our own dopamine pleasure/pain receptors as much as they are a rational response against the constrictions of society.
 
At this point there are so many laws, many of them obscure that on any given day, the vast majority will have committed at least a few misdemeanours. Most of them are not heavily enforced and the only way we would ever be held accountable for them is if we were under suspicion of doing something far worse and the powers that be were looking for reasons to prosecute. Thus in reality the systems are so rule-bound that most of us could be considered criminals.
 
With both of those things being said, how do we decide where the line is between what is legal and what is honest? How do we choose where the lines are so that we can add, not only to our own lives but also to the communities in which we live? If reality is whatever we can get away with, what are the choices that will make our realities quality ones to inhabit as opposed to desolate wastelands where nothing can be trusted?
 
 
About the Archetype:
 
The suit of swords represents thoughts, ideas, plans, and conflicts. Sevens represent our desires and wants and the paths and challenges we take to achieve them. It also may represent an excessiveness in the force involved. What do we do when what we want to do conflicts with the framework in which we live?
For many of us living in societies that for various reasons offer less and less freedom, this question is becoming more and more important. It is possible to live conflicted in society and work the system, taking what we can for ourselves but quite often even tho this may mean our needs are met, our lives become more and more unfulfilled. It seems the very act of futility to be shaped by a society that we feel we should be shaping. We run the hamster wheel and yet at the same time, we hope to find a better way of doing things. The gift of this energy may very well be the tenacity to keep on looking for that way and the knowledge that it must exist.
 
Placement Within the Narrative of Swords:
 
Sometimes when we over-identify with a viewpoint or ideology that we have taken on, we may find aspects of it coming into conflict with values that we hold at our core. When this cognitive dissonance happens, we have to decide whether we are going to be true to ourselves or toe the party line. Either way, it can feel like a betrayal.
 
 
Astrological Correspondent:
 
Moon in Aquarius – This energy tends towards intuition and group dynamics. It seems to hold a greater understanding of what is going on yet can be very remote and unfathomable even to itself. The Moon in Aquarius focuses on the greater good. The energy is open to all and disapproves of little yet finds it very hard to connect in a very ‘in the world but not of it’ way. More than anything else this energy needs the freedom to think what it wants and to live as it wants
 
 
In a Reading:
 
When the Seven of Swords occurs in a reading, it may mean that we are having trouble expressing ourselves in the environment we find ourselves in due to people whom we believe to be in authority over us. We may feel like we are compromising ourselves rather than surrendering who we are. It may also be that we are learning how to maintain our inner beings while living our day-to-day lives. It usually denotes a feeling of isolation and a need for self-reliance. This card may also mean thievery or underhandedness in our environment. It may also mean that someone close to us is hiding their true nature.
 
When the Seven of Swords shows up reversed or badly aspected in a reading, it may mean that rather than only relying on ourselves, we may need to consult others for advice on how to extricate ourselves from a tricky situation. It may also mean that we are finding it difficult to do what we need to do to get out of the troubles in which we find ourselves. It may also mean that we are feeling internal pressure to bring out into the open what we may have felt the need to previously keep hidden.
–GAR
 
 
Fate’s Whisper:
 
While it seems foolish, many have waged war on the Spider. This led to a place where the discarded weapon of the fallen warrior was the only reminder of how pointless a feat it truly was. Regardless this graveyard expands to this day.
 
There are two types of foes we are presented with in life. One is the one we project on others in the absence of productive growth. The other is the expectations we have of the first foe. As we walk through life some will use this to their advantage while others will overdo it to prove their inferior nature. When we take on a foe it is important to understand the objective stance of what we are facing that way we can properly use the second foe to its greatest potential. To overestimate yourself can lead to a bad situation where you lose more than you gain, while the other side is where you think yourself too low to beat what you are presented with. Find your balance of these and you will find true victory.
–NF

FOUR PILLARS SOCIETY TAROT: SIX OF SWORDS

Notes on: The Six of Swords

(Journey Through Strife)

Artist’s Notes:
 
This ship and the people on it have seen challenges aplenty on its trip through the harbour. Yet through all of its challenges, its captain manages to bring them in safely. It takes both confidence and faith in oneself to not shirk what needs to be done. That, and a willingness to adapt and think outside the box. Of course, sometimes the only way to think outside the box is to break it.
 
 
About the Archetype:
 
The suit of swords represents thoughts, ideas, plans, and conflicts. Sixes represent balance and harmony.
The energy of this card deals with healing from wounds, a guided journey away from where we were hurt to where we can heal and gain perspective over what has caused the wounds in the first place. Once grief has been acknowledged then we can begin the journey away from what has hurt us (carrying the memories, the swords for the lessons we have learned, with us but in a way that is now harmless to us.).
 
 
Astrological Correspondent:
 
Mercury in Aquarius – The Mercury in Aquarius energy is one of both objective logic and intuitive understanding. This gives an amazing ability to contextualize problems in order to begin to move past them. This form of thinking can often come into conflict with that of the status quo, especially where being helpless in the face of problems has become more and more in vogue.
 
 
In a Reading:
 
When the Six of Swords turns up in a reading, it can mean that the time has come to take stock of a situation and look at it objectively and move onwards. It may also denote a time of healing and moving forwards. In its most literal sense, it could mean a journey over water yet this depending on the other cards in the reading most likely will be in the context of leaving in order to heal. It may also mean that someone in the given situation is twisting their interpretation of the problem to suit their own ends.
 
Reversed or badly aspected, the Six of Swords can represent someone who either feels trapped in a situation or is trapped, unable to see where the escape route is. This could be because of rationalizations but it almost always signifies a need to take stoke of the situation and find some clarity. It can also represent something being offered that may seem like an escape route but will in truth only lead to greater problems.
–GAR
 
 
Fate’s Whisper:
 
” Every empire will fall the same way it came to power.”
When the first passed and empires were in their beginning stages the Spider was stuck will endless visions of war through petty squabble. Having started the cycle of war it was then he decided to create this edict to ensure that war would only become as powerful as the foundation it could establish. This would later extend to the force many refer to as Karma. Named, jokingly as many think, The Law of Irony many began to create these loops of twisted demises as they sought to outwit Fate only to fall victim to their own with while those ignorant of this edict lived very fulfilling lives. Which are you the Fool or the Blind?
–NF