The Wild Unknown Tarot Deck and Guidebook summary

Understanding the Tarot

In The Wild Unknown Tarot Deck and Guidebook by Kim Krans, we embark on a journey to understand the ancient art of tarot. Krans introduces us to the symbolic language of the tarot, emphasizing that the deck is a tool to access our subconscious and tap into the collective wisdom of humanity. She encourages us to approach the tarot with an open mind, allowing the images to speak to us in a deeply personal way.

Krans begins by explaining the structure of the traditional tarot deck, consisting of 78 cards divided into two parts: the Major Arcana and the Minor Arcana. She describes the 22 cards of the Major Arcana as archetypal symbols representing significant life events and forces beyond our control. The remaining 56 cards of the Minor Arcana illustrate our everyday experiences and emotions.

Exploring the Wild Unknown

The heart of The Wild Unknown is Krans' unique tarot deck, which she designed and illustrated herself. Each card is a stunning work of art, featuring simple yet evocative drawings of animals, plants, and landscapes. Krans explains that she chose these natural symbols to ground her deck in the physical world, connecting us more deeply to our environment and our primal instincts.

As we delve into the Major Arcana, we encounter familiar figures such as The Fool, The Lovers, and The Tower. Krans provides us with her interpretation of each card, but she emphasizes that the true meaning of the cards lies within us. She encourages us to trust our intuition and personal associations, allowing the cards to reveal insights unique to our individual experiences.

Interpreting the Minor Arcana

In the second half of The Wild Unknown, Krans guides us through the Minor Arcana, which is divided into four suits: Wands, Cups, Swords, and Pentacles. Each suit corresponds to different aspects of our lives, such as creativity, emotions, intellect, and material concerns. The numbered cards within each suit represent different stages of development or challenges within these areas.

Throughout her explanations, Krans emphasizes the balance between light and shadow, reminding us that both positive and negative aspects exist within each card. She encourages us to embrace the duality of life and to view challenges as opportunities for growth and transformation.

Reading the Tarot

As we near the end of The Wild Unknown, Krans offers practical advice on how to read the tarot. She walks us through the process of shuffling the cards, selecting a spread, and interpreting the positions of the cards. She also shares her personal rituals for grounding and centering before a reading, highlighting the importance of creating a sacred space for this introspective practice.

In conclusion, The Wild Unknown Tarot Deck and Guidebook is an invitation to explore the depths of our subconscious and connect with the mysteries of the universe. Krans encourages us to approach the tarot with reverence and curiosity, allowing the cards to act as mirrors reflecting our innermost thoughts and feelings. Ultimately, she reminds us that the power of the tarot lies within ourselves, and it is up to us to unlock its wisdom.