Today's Tarot for Neal Stephenson

	The Hagall spread is a tool for revealing the path of spiritual growth in difficult situations. It is a favorite of mystics and those confronting a major life challenge. The Curious Tarot is the rarest and most unusual of modern decks. The cards form a surreal collage of American consumer imagery, eerily capturing the archetypes of the atomic age. It is the deck of those who seek to harness the ancient tribal energy that courses through the modern urban world. There are only 100 Curious Tarot decks in existence - if you want one, buy it now!
	The card in the middle of the circle represents the core or central issue of the situation. King of Pentacles, when reversed: The dark essence of earth behaving as air, such as a diamond: An unyielding businessman, with a gift for identifying weakness and exploiting it for personal gain. One well informed about material affairs, but ignorant of larger, more pressing issues. A blind devotee of business as usual, unconcerned with the unintended results, and contemptuous of new ideas. A person full of greed and avarice, easily corrupted by luxury or the temptations of the flesh.
	The card at the bottom of the circle represents something you did to bring the situation about. Queen of Pentacles: The essence of earth behaving as water, such as a hot spring: A warm and generous host, providing shelter and comfort for all who would seek it. A person steadfast, practical, and domestic, able to create opulence and stability in any setting. The qualities of maturity and sensibility, coupled with an innate appreciation for nature and the material world.
	The card at the bottom left of the circle represents your beliefs, impressions, or expectations. Death: A major change or transformation, possibly traumatic and unexpected. Freedom from the shackles of the past. A new beginning. Death coupled with rebirth, usually related to consciousness and lifestyle.
	The card at the bottom right of the circle represents the most likely outcome of the situation given present circumstances. King of Wands, when reversed: The dark essence of fire behaving as air, such as lightning: An exciting and reckless leader who inspires others to irresponsible acts. An artist whose depraved love of chaos causes him to take hold of destructive ideas and make them appealing to the masses. One who is charismatic and intimidating, using demonstrations of his own skill to dupe others into accepting responsibilities beyond their ability. A dashing and magnetic personality, appearing and disappearing with great suddenness, and leaving upheaval in his wake.
	The card at the upper left of the circle represents the spiritual history of the situation the things you've learned. The High Priest: Faith in tradition and the old school. A justified and ancient source of power. Being supportive, sympathetic and loyal. Receiving instructions, learning, guidance or inspiration. The ability to hear a higher or inner voice. May also indicate a religious ritual, such as a marriage or an initiation.
	The card at the top of the circle represents the spiritual tasks and challenges of the present situation. The Emperor: Worldly authority and power. Social mastery and oratory. One who is intelligent, experienced, confident and reasonable. A patriarch or primary male influence. The motive force of politics and society. The ability to fulfill plans and use mental control over the emotions.
	The card at the upper right of the circle represents the metamorphosis of the spiritual situation, and how your knowledge will evolve. The Fool, when reversed: Apathy, negligence, and dangerous carelessness. Unquenchable wanderlust. Obsession with someone or something. Losing all sense of proportion. Foolhardy adventuring and lack of interest in critical matters. Immature or unrealistic ideals. Strange impulses and desires coming from unexpected sources. Vanity, delirium, folly, and oblivion.
	The card at the left of the lower line represents the person or qualities that will sustain your spiritual journey. Queen of Swords, when reversed: The dark essence of air behaving as water, such as a cold rain: A person gifted with both keen logic and natural intuition, giving them uncanny powers of perception and insight. One who easily sees the weakness in any argument, and savages friend and foe alike with biting sarcasm. Dry and vicious wit covering a hollow sense of isolation and dissatisfaction with life.
	The card in the middle of the lower line represents the qualities that you express in this circumstance. The Sun, when reversed: Loneliness and uncertainty. Nostalgic memories. The warm passing glow of dusk. Peace without vigilance.
	The card at the right of the lower line represents the person or qualities that will reveal spiritual knowledge. Page of Cups, when reversed: The dark essence of water behaving as earth, such as a wellspring: An unexpected new relationship that is childish and foolish. An idle dreamer oblivious to the realities of the world. Moodiness, sad reflection, and retreat from society. Seduction and deception in personal and business relationships.