| The Celtic Cross spread is one of the most popular Tarot spreads, providing varied insight into many aspects of a complex situation and your role in it. The William Blake Tarot explores the mystical vision and artistry of the renowned English painter and poet. Through rich interpretations focused on creative undertakings, it has long been the deck of choice for artists, writers, musicians, and thinkers. For more information about this deck, or to buy your own personal copy, go to www.blaketarot.com.
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 | The card not shown but at the center of the cross, represents the atmosphere surrounding the central issue. Ace of Painting (Generation), when reversed: A stark creative block. Undue reliance on old forms. Being bound by your initial plan. A stall in new projects and works. An opening that goes unnoticed. Failure to connect with elements of sensuality and sexuality. In the creative process: This is when you tap into the elemental and generative forces of life, using your inner vision to create new and exciting forms with which to work. |
 | The card visible at the center of the cross represents the obstacle that stands in your way - it may even be something that sounds good but is not actually to your benefit. Three of Music (Exuberance), when reversed: Sense of emotional contraction. Inability to experience joy. Lack of motivation. Stagnating on the verge of new territory. An absence of enthusiasm among supportive relationships. In the creative process: Exciting and joyous progress is taking place; blow your horn! |
 | The card at the top of the cross represents your goal, or the best you can achieve without a dramatic change of priorities. Lightning, when reversed: An unexpected shock, upheaval, or stunning event. Possibility of mental, material, or spiritual breakdown. A missed opportunity. An angry or emotional outburst. An embarrassment or blow to the ego. Broken pride. An unintended release of energy that was being conserved for another task. The house of cards collapses. Illusions are shattered. Helplessness. |
 | The card at the bottom of the cross represents the foundation on which the situation is based. Angel of Painting: "The Graphic Muse". Visionary reverie. Coalescing plans and agendas in your imagination. Contemplation prior to action. Making use of appropriate tools. Getting an overview of the situation, particularly regarding its physical or material aspects. "Getting the feel" of things. In the creative process: Look for or contemplate a solid idea, a practical point of view that can instigate a whole new direction in your work or project. |
 | The card at the left of the cross represents a passing influence or something to be released. Forgiveness: A trial-and-error blend of creative solutions to a problem or complex issue. Keeping things in proportion and proper balance by making needed adjustments. Managing your time and resources carefully. Listening for inner guidance and tuning in to spiritual advice. Promoting forgiveness and healing, being compassionate toward those around you. |
 | The card at the right of the cross represents an approaching influence or something to be embraced. Sun, when reversed: Being blocked from imagination and inspiration, and trapped in old patterns. Failure to realize your personal goals. Despair. Separation from the joy of life. Being cut off from the Source, and abandoned by the Heavens. Darkness with no apparent end. Being trapped in the past. |
 | The card at the base of the staff represents your role or attitude. Magic: Asserting control over the situation. Ability to channel or direct powerful forces. Making the most of the available resources. Outstanding possibilities for communication. The right time to act is at hand. Naked aggressiveness is effective at this time. Availability of tools and skills. |
 | The card second from the bottom of the staff represents your environment and the people you are interacting with. Ten of Music (Sublimity): "Peace & Plenty & Domestic Happiness is the Source of Sublime Art". Gifts of love, especially in relationship or marriage. Sharing your deepest feelings with others. Rewards of friendship and social involvements. Recognition of achievement. Finding happiness in hearth, home, and hospitality. Experiencing fulfillment in communal or community involvement. Resonating with others. Joining the sexy dance of life. In the creative process: Combine your efforts with others to create a unified whole greater than the sum of its parts. |
 | The card second from the top of the staff represents your hopes, fears, or an unexpected element that will come into play. Child of Music: "Piping down the valleys wild / Piping songs of pleasant glee". A need to kindle your emotions. Getting in touch with your own feelings. Willingness to take emotional risks. Marching to a personal rhythm. Taking risks for love. Experimenting with genuine self-expression. Empathy with others, and with animals. In the creative process: Go inside yourself to experience emotional innocence and primal voice. Don't be afraid to improvise in your own way. |
 | The card at the top of the staff represents the ultimate outcome should you continue on this course. Ten of Science (Defeat): Feeling mentally or philosophically burned out. Consigned to the fire. Plans and hopes overturned. Gripped by vice, obsession, or addiction. Existential or spiritual surrender. In the creative process: Difficulties abound; your work is in flames. Defeat must be transcended by right attitude. Remember that suffering is the short road to Spirit. |
