Meaning of the 36 Lenormand cards: Complete Guide

Classical interpretation

In the classical interpretation of the Lenormand, the Cavalier has several meanings : an idea for a trip. For example, a person coming to you. Or the arrival of a message or visitor (as if the rider were the letter carrier) which can extend to receiving a phone call, an email, a text message, etc.

Associated with the 9 of hearts, a card is also synonymous with joy of life and love.

Interpretation according to cultures

The Rider is first and foremost the card of news and messages. For the European school, it is a concrete bringer of new situations, with special attention to speed and origin — often from abroad or outside the home. The Brazilian tradition sees it more as a card of movement and impulse: it embodies pioneering courage, physical vitality and the spirit of adventure, announcing arrivals — people, opportunities — that demand a quick response. For the Russian tradition, it is a card of favorable communications: messages, calls, visits. In the past position, a message already received; in the future position, hope and the solving of problems. All traditions agree on its shadow: rushing ahead, recklessness or inconsistency.

The Gilded Lenormand

In the Gilded Lenormand, the Knight card is a woman ! In fact, the card has a positive aspect, indicating favourable communication and exchanges, where the interlocutors are open and receptive.
The horse is that of a merry-go-round, evoking nostalgia, the past of childhood, and also a form of carefreeness or happiness reinforced by the presence of the rainbow. The rainbow also symbolises hope, and the treasure that is hidden at its foot in legends (perhaps illusory).

My interpretation

Forget the association with the 9 of hearts, joy of life and love is the business of the 24 - Heart card.
Some cartomancers suggest that the 1 - Knight card is associated with short journeys and the 3 - The Ship card with longer journeys. Keep it simple, attach the notion of travel and journeys only to the card 3 - The Ship.
Forget the notion of receiving messages with this card, this is rather the function of card 27 - The Letter.
In the end, remember only one main idea for this card: QUICKNESS. This card speaks of a quick action, which happens quickly, which starts quickly.

In combination with other cards

This card speeds up everything it touches. Everything becomes fast. For example, with card 8 - The Coffin, the end becomes imminent and brutal. With card 22 - The Way, the decision must be made quickly. With card 12 - The Birds, a matter must be communicated as quickly as possible. And so on.

Thematic interpretation

• Present : Everything is going too fast for the consultant, he/she may find it difficult to deal with the situation. If not, he/she must instead move and get moving in order to get out of a certain lethargy.
• Love : Perhaps the consultant wants to move too fast in the new relationship, the partner needs time. On the other hand, the partner may be detached because the consultant lacks energy and drive.
• Work : The consultant must speed up the progress of his/her projects, or on the contrary slow down the pace to better complete them. Otherwise, the consultant should speed up his/her job search and increase the number of applications.

Classical interpretation

This card is usually about travel, about escape. Of course, it's not just about shipping, but often long distance travel. It's time for a new beginning, and it's an auspicious one. You can try your luck elsewhere. Much like the 2 - The Clover card, there is a great opportunity here to go.

The card is associated with the 10 of spades which is synonymous with speed (but not as fast as the 1 - The Rider card).

Interpretation according to cultures

The Ship is unanimously the card of journey and change, but traditions differ on its nature. The European school varies by country: in France, it carries a connection to wealth and heritage linked to sea trade; in German Switzerland, it is reserved for very long journeys and distant dreams; in Anglo-Saxon tradition, it points toward personal adventure. The Brazilian tradition stresses mutually helpful exchange, gradual change and needed patience: crossing inner or outer seas takes time. The Russian tradition also connects it to the inner journey — meditation, personal growth — as well as gaining wealth. Surrounded by negative cards, it can warn of money troubles or projects moving away.

The Gilded Lenormand

The Ship of Gilded Lenormand flies in the sky, evoking the absence of borders and the immensity of the possible paths offered to the consultant. We are invited to conquer new horizons. With its wing-like sails and its propeller, this flying ship also speaks of imagination, inventiveness and evolution.

My interpretation

Card 3 - The Ship can naturally speak of physical movement, but I think we really need to broaden this notion, and speak of movement in general. Indeed, the card can invite the consultant to distance him/herself from an event or a situation. The card can also speak of a newfound freedom of movement or of the need to get out of a blockage. It can be about shifting one's center of interest, that is to say nourishing new desires, seeing differently, shifting one's "spiritual" center of gravity and following new ideals. I advise you to see through this card, the opportunity to evolve, to reinvent yourself, to discover new horizons, to meet new people, to integrate other social circles.

In combination with other cards

With this card, you have to change your mind ! Literally, the Ship can 'sweep' the neighboring cards, i.e. it indicates what to move away from and distance yourself from. Alternatively, nearby cards can indicate ways to leave and change air. A juxtaposed card can also be the destination that the consultant should aim for. It is necessary to contextualize the drawing and to determine if the cards close to the Ship are its allies, its opponents, or the objective to be reached.

Thematic interpretation

• Present : The consultant is stuck in a situation, he/she has to get out of it, abandon his/her bad habits, look for a new job, leave his/her partner. He/she has to break with his/her monotonous life, his/her locked-in daily life, he/she has to renew his/her desires, give himself/herself a new vision, a new hope.
• Love : The consultant may need to re-evaluate his/her interest in continuing a relationship to which he/she may be attached. Is he/she still happy with it? Even if the relationship has only just begun, the card invites the consultant to already ask himself/herself the question of continuing the date. If the consultant is alone, the card suggests that he/she should reconsider his/her way of doing things, change his/her habits, try to meet someone else.
• Work : The consultant must ask himself/herself if he/she wants to continue in his/her current job. Perhaps, it is even necessary to consider leaving his/her current place of residence, to move, to live and work elsewhere ? Or perhaps it is necessary to associate with foreign people ? It may also be a question of changing one's current work methods and being inspired by methods that are far from one's culture and knowledge. The Ship can also propose to imagine and invent new concepts, new solutions.

Classical interpretation

In its classical interpretation, the Tree is a card that evokes energy and health (and therefore disease). In a broader interpretation, the Tree can be a symbol of patience, fortitude, and a conquering spirit. As an aside, the card can also reflect an outdoor location, in the middle of nature.

It is associated with the 7 of hearts, a card with happy feelings and a real positive connotation.

Interpretation according to cultures

The Tree is the card of health, slow growth and deep roots. The Brazilian tradition stresses time as a friend: nothing happens overnight, and the more time passes, the deeper strength and stability grow. It also points to its link with family history, origins and helpful energy exchange. In its shadow, it points to roots that may slow growth. The Russian tradition focuses more on personal vitality: the Tree represents a person with deep roots, able to look inward and grow personally. Surrounded by negative cards, it warns of health problems and the need for rest. All traditions agree: time is a valuable resource here, and depth comes before width.

The Gilded Lenormand

The Gilded Lenormand version has many specific details. First the tree appears in its glory, with thick roots, strong branches, dense foliage, reinforcing the idea that the card is rather positive. We can see birds that seem to have nested in the branches of the tree, but also mushrooms at its foot. These symbols indicate that the Tree is a protective place full of vitality and spreading its energy to others. It is like a guardian. The rainbow can lead one to believe that the Tree is located in the Garden of Eden or in a pristine, peaceful and prosperous nature. Finally, the poster of the Tree of Life of the Kabbalah visible on its trunk, means that the Tree is wise, it is the heir of a lineage of knowledge.
The Gilded Lenormand Tree is therefore wise, protective, prosperous, radiant, and full of vitality.

My interpretation

First of all, forget the classical interpretation concerning health. Because questions about health are few and far between, and usually very tricky to answer (don't be a doctor!). In my opinion, the card 5 - The Tree can evoke the following topics :

• Of course, it can be about energy, physical and mental strength, but mostly about growth. The need to improve one's daily life, to aim for a more ambitious professional job, to enroll in a new training, to participate in new activities, etc. You have to spread your wings like a tree spreads its branches.
• It can also be a question of healing past wounds, of accomplishing a work of resilience, of retaining a moral, a wisdom of the ordeal that one has just lived.
• It may be a question of recharging one's batteries, finding a healthy and balanced life, finding a more harmonious rhythm, taking on new habits more in line with one's life plan.
• In the same theme, there may be an invitation to "go green", take a vacation, rest, regain strength, take care of yourself.
• Of course, it can also be a reminder to be patient, to make a constant and lasting effort to obtain the fruits of your labor. Take the long view, rather than the short view.
• The Tree is the perfect symbol of the cycle of life and nature, changing appearance with the 4 seasons, growing and dying with the rhythm of its life.

In combination with other cards

In association with neighboring cards, the Tree can :

• Be the opportunity to train in one of the areas mentioned by a juxtaposed card.
• Signifying the need to heal from the wounds caused by a negative card next to it.
• To indicate that it is necessary to take care of, welcome and protect the people around you, symbolized by another card.
• Evoke that a nearby card must be perceived and experienced in a global cycle, with a beginning and an end. That this card must be repositioned in a larger and more sustainable framework.
• To find in the annexed cards, the means to resource and revitalize oneself, which is what the Tree calls for.

Thematic interpretation

• Present : The consultant must refocus, take care of him/herself first and foremost and forget for a while the worries of others. He/she cannot take all the misery of the world in his/her hands. Or on the contrary, he/she must show empathy towards those around him/her, give his/her energy and get involved for people who need help. He/she must make a difference.
• Love : For a relationship that is already well established, the tree is a rather positive sign, confirming that the relationship is lasting. It may, however, signal that adaptations need to be made, that habits need to be broken, just as one prunes the vine every winter to reinvigorate the plant, and to ensure the next harvest. In short, we maintain the vine and the fruit trees, just as love is maintained and renewed. For a new or upcoming meeting, the consultant must speak from experience, show that he/she is anchored and well established in his/her life, show his/her serenity, his/her benevolence and his/her generosity.
• Work : The consultant must use all his/her experience to succeed in his/her work. He/she must use his/her seniority. He/she has to pass on his/her talents by taking a trainee or an apprentice for example who could help him/her in his/her tasks. If the consultant is too young to do this, perhaps the Tree means that he/she should look for a mentor, an experienced person able to pass on his/her know-how, or even look for training to complement his/her current skills.

Classical interpretation

In the classic Lenormand system, the card 7 - The Snake carries a symbol of betrayal, lies and jealousy, or even cheating. Obviously this is a card with negative connotations. It speaks of betrayal in business or emotional deception, or extramarital relationships within a couple. Generally speaking, this card encourages distrust of those around you and invites you to be very careful. The Snake can also evoke a rival, a false person, and in matters of love, can represent the mistress or the lover.

The card is associated with the Queen of Clubs, seen as a deceitful and evil woman.

Interpretation according to cultures

The Snake is the card of cunning and betrayal, but traditions add to its complexity. The Russian tradition is most direct: it warns of a false, jealous or two-faced person around you, a symbol of disloyalty and dishonest rivalry. The Brazilian tradition paints a fuller picture: patient and calculating, the Snake also shows seduction, relentless strategy and the skill to act with precision at the right time. It adds a side of change and rebirth — shedding skin to be born again — and calls for watchfulness and ethics rather than fear alone. The Russian tradition also sees possible wisdom in it, making reading more open by context. All agree: look carefully and watch before you act.

The Gilded Lenormand

The Gilded Lenormand Snake represents a viper (not a snake) showing its fangs, about to attack. The danger seems imminent. Interestingly, the author has placed the snake in a tree and surrounded it with apples. The evocation of the original paradise, of the desire aroused by the snake in Eve, and of the fall of Eve and Adam from the Garden of Eden are obvious. Thus the Gilded Lenormand version really nuances the initial purpose of the card, by recalling the original sin, which made the first woman and the first man, mortal beings. This representation thus refers to the humanity to see the weakness that there is in each individual.

My interpretation

First, forget about the association with the Queen of Clubs. In fact, very few associations with the 36 cards of the classic deck make sense in the Lenormand system. Forget also the very negative aspect of the card which speaks of wickedness, betrayal, jealousy. This framework of interpretation is far from the modern divination borrowed from psychology and positive management.

For my part, I interpret the snake according to its classical and universal symbolism, which is more promising and interesting than that of the Lenormand system. Thus, in my drawings, the snake is, for me, a symbol of fertility, healing, rebirth, sexuality, clairvoyance and transformation. Indeed, throughout the world, many cultures see this animal as a powerful totem that represents the source of life. We can also see through this animal that Nature's creations are neutral. What is poisoned can be eaten, integrated and transformed into knowledge with the right state of mind. The snake's shedding of its old skin for a new one symbolizes transmutation, the manifestation of the cycle of life and death. Like the ouroboros, the ancient symbol of the snake biting its own tail in a circle.

The symbolism of the snake is therefore very vast, and seeing it only through the prism of the Lenormand system is reductive. Also, you can consider with this card :

• That the consultant must heal from an aspect that is eating away at him/her. To accept failure, betrayal, to bounce back, and to achieve resilience.
• That he/she needs to renew him/herself. To make something new out of something old. To end a cycle and start a new one.
• That he/she must evolve, accomplish a transformation, become someone else in order to grow.
• That he/she must accept his/her passion, his/her desire (not necessarily sexual) and manage it, and see how he/she can satisfy it, and how he/she moves forward with it.
• That he/she can be clairvoyant, that he/she must seek and find the truth. By probing, by going deep, by searching within.

In combination with other cards

In my opinion, the card 7 - The Snake is central in a draw. However, it covers such a vast field of interpretation, that when this card comes out, it must be systematically associated with other cards in the deck. These neighboring cards will modulate and direct the interpretation of the Snake. Thus a juxtaposed card can speak of the nature of the healing that must take place, of the true desire that the consultant nourishes, of the type of evolution that he/she must accomplish, or even where he/she must look for the truth that refuses to be found for the moment.

Thematic interpretation

• Present : The consultant must find an inner strength that must lead him/her to either heal, transform, find his/her truth or fulfill his/her desire. This inner strength can be revealed by an adjacent card. The consultant may also be faced with a deceptive illusion. This card is also an invitation for the consultant to slide down the river, to go from one meander to another, before arriving at its mouth and tasting the immensity of the sea. He/she must let him/herself be carried along by the river of life.
• Love : The consultant lives a passion or an overflowing desire, perhaps even uncontrollable. Be careful not to burn his/her wings. He/she must learn to channel his/her libido into creative energy. The relationship can have a sadomasochistic character, that is to say introducing a power or a domination on the other, or on the contrary one of the partners nourishes a state of mind of victim or submission. More globally the relationship can be harmful for the consultant.
• Work : The consultant can develop an ambition which is not relevant or can prove to be counter-productive for his career. The consultant can also give in to the sirens of the facility and engage in a way bringing an immediate result, but which on the long term can prove to be a bad investment. Otherwise, there can be a malpractice in the contract that one is about to sign, or there can be a failure somewhere. A field investigation, a thorough diagnosis is perhaps necessary to avoid unforeseen damage or to appease a latent conflict.

Classical interpretation

The 9 card - Bouquet can naturally presage a gift, a surprise (rather pleasant), or even a happy ending. That is, after a series of bad cards, or following an uncomfortable situation for the consultant, this card symbolizes the end of troubles, and therefore by extension, leaves room for success and fulfillment. Generally, the Bouquet is seen as one of the most positive cards in the Lenormand system. As a secondary meaning, the Bouquet can represent spring.

Associated with the Queen of Spades, the card reinforces the concrete side of the situation. Even though the Queen is a rigid, solitary character, she is nonetheless pragmatic and does not live in her dreams. She has the ability to get what she wants.

Interpretation according to cultures

The Bouquet is the card of beauty, joy and life's gifts. The Russian tradition makes it a card of happiness and harmony: success, calm, lovely love, good mood — and it notes it is specially favorable for women. It can promise a new meeting or making up, and softens bad nearby cards. The Brazilian tradition adds to this reading: good taste, beauty, the joy of the senses, creativity and thanks — the Bouquet as a gathering of the best of each thing in one act. In its shadow, the Brazilian tradition warns against too much self-indulgence or caring too much about looks over depth. Its universal message: taste the moments of grace with sincerity and full awareness.

The Gilded Lenormand

In the Gilded Lenormand the Bouquet is composed of red tulips and is accompanied by a message. This image is a representation of an ideal love. The tulip is also a symbol of elegance or royalty or at least an idea of luxury. Thus, this card in the Gilded, offers a very positive version, adding an idea of abundance and prosperity. The color red adds a notion of passion, ardent feelings, possibly a form of sensuality or an invitation to pleasure and enjoy life.

My interpretation

In the Bouquet, there is surprise, joy and satisfaction. This makes it a very positive card at first impression, but it must be qualified. First we can speak of a benevolent intention that you receive or that you have. This gesture of the heart expresses the generosity of the person. However, this intention, as sincere as it may be, may be short-lived, because we all know that a bouquet of cut flowers will fade in a few days. Also, we can appreciate the gesture but have no illusions, perhaps we can suspect a possible falseness of feelings behind this gesture that may be self-serving. In this, the Bouquet is perhaps more ambiguous or nuanced than the card 25 - The Ring which speaks of a true alliance.

But because flowers fade and a bouquet is always ephemeral, it invites to be replaced. One bouquet calls for another. So it is with love, which must be nurtured and renewed each passing day. This card can therefore speak of an attention that is given to us or that we must give, which must be durable, installed in the daily life, and which must not be transient.

Just as flowers perish, the Bouquet can be the evocation of a nostalgia, of a past joy, of a happy moment of one's life, that one regrets, that one would like to relive, that one seeks to reproduce or to renew. Just as we would secretly like to be offered a bouquet of flowers again.

In combination with other cards

The Bouquet can make the events or actions evoked by other cards seem surprising, impromptu, improvised. Likewise, these same events or actions may have no real significance, being a shot in the dark. Just as it is surprising to receive a bouquet for no particular reason and it invariably ends up in the trash. The cards in the vicinity of the bouquet can also be tempered by suggesting that the author of the bouquet may not have as benevolent, committed and profound an intention as it appears. Perhaps this Bouquet is part of a simple game of seduction revealed by the other cards. The Bouquet can emphasize a pleasant or comfortable aspect of a situation, but it can be impromptu, punctual and especially very ephemeral. The Bouquet can emphasize the real attention and vigilance of a person, but ultimately having a superficial or non-committal behavior.

Thematic interpretation

• Present : The turn of events can be surprising and rather pleasant, but it is necessary to keep a cool head, because the Bouquet can quickly fade, and finally the pleasure or the happiness obtained was only an illusion. You must take full advantage of the moment but remain cautious about the future.
• Love : A meeting can be made today, or simply the relationship of the consultant can be boosted by a sudden evolution of the desires and the common desire. The consultant can fall asleep in his or her relationship, it is time to spice up and renew his or her desires. It is important to maintain love as one maintains his garden. Of course, the consultant may also be the object of a seduction game or be tempted to seduce someone.
• Work : Good results can appear unexpectedly. A financial or human help can relieve the consultant in his work, but it should be kept in mind that this help is perhaps temporary. If it is the case, it is necessary to take care to perpetuate his activity, at least to feel more at ease and more fulfilled in his job.

Classical interpretation

The Whip is an instrument for punishment. In all cases, this object is associated with physical violence, a painful situation, or anger. The card is a source of disputes, tensions in the close circle. It can also foretell chronic illness, aches and pains, flu or even fractures.

The blade is associated with the Jack of Clubs, usually represented as a military man or soldier. He can be seen as a fiery and reckless young man.

Interpretation according to cultures

The Rod is the card of conflict and forcing power, but European traditions show deep differences. In France, the double meaning of the word opens toward sexuality, sport and physical activity, even strong discussions. The German school points it toward serious conflict, punishment and repeating bad patterns. The Anglo-Saxon tradition sees debate, aggressive talk and physical work. The Russian tradition is clear: important quarrels, false friendship, unhappy marriage, inner tension or trouble at work — with breaking up as the likely end of the conflict. The Brazilian tradition adds a deeper reading: ruling over others, punishment, anger in all its forms, but also, in its good side, discipline and will to guide. Its shadow warns against too much self-criticism and anger turned against oneself.

The Gilded Lenormand

The image of the Gilded Lenormand shows a rod but also a whip. It can be concluded that the card can also evoke a feeling of intimidation or domination because animals can be trained with a whip. So it can be about relationships that are not violent or hostile, but at least tense or complicated because of a relationship of power and influence between people.

My interpretation

The Whip card is probably one of the least interesting cards in the Lenormand system because it offers few nuances in its interpretation. To the evocation of conflicting relationships with one's entourage, of a power game in the middle of which the consultant finds himself/herself, one can add the following interpretations :

• The Whip can speak of a pain that is all the deeper because it is repetitive. Just as the penitent scourges himself repeatedly, the consultant may have a similar state of mind where he persists in hurting himself, in repeating bad habits, in replaying over and over the same harmful encounters.
• It can also be a consultant who is aware (or not) of his or her authority or power, and can thus harass his or her neighbours, by putting people under pressure, by making them bend under work, injunctions, urgent requests. If the consultant is more of a victim, he/she may experience a feeling of insecurity, overheating, frantic pace, hyperactivity leading to exhaustion.
• The Whip can evoke the combativeness of the consultant, his attitude to defend his rights and his thought, his courage and his tenacity to keep the course. In short, this card can also be an asset in a drawing.

In combination with other cards

Since the card 11 - The Whip is rather generic because it speaks of the conflict without specifying its nature, its cause, its effects. It is precisely the other cards in the draw that will allow us to explain more about the different aspects of the conflict by specifying, for example, the origins of the tensions and the different ways of calming or resolving them.

Thematic interpretation

• Present : The consultant is experiencing a moment of uneasiness or insecurity. Perhaps he/she should stop having such a negative vision of him/herself. He/she should look at him/herself with more consideration.
• Love : There seems to be a lot of tension within the couple. It is probably time to re-establish a dialogue, and to admit to the real reproaches that you have made to the other, to say why and how you feel hurt, or to make amends.
• Work : Perhaps the consultant is a victim of a disrespectful hierarchy that has created strained human relations. It is undoubtedly time for him/her to leave this atmosphere which is not conducive to his/her development, and to speak to the competent authorities if this is reprehensible harassment.

Classical interpretation

Card 13 - The Child evokes birth, a new beginning brought by confidence, hope and joy. The card represents the goodness of a person. The card also speaks of innocence, freshness, sensitivity, youth. The Child is therefore rather positive. More broadly, the card can signify the arrival of a baby in the family, or focus attention on a family problem (as would card 4 - The House).

The card is associated with the Jack of Spades who has a bad reputation, the character speaks of an encounter with someone who is bad company, selfish and deceitful.

Interpretation according to cultures

The Child is unanimously the card of new starts, but traditions add nuance to its reach. The European school differs by country: in Germany, the card often marks a young man or shows the naive side of a situation; in France, it links more to childhood itself or projects forming; the Anglo-Saxon tradition stresses innocence and weakness. The Brazilian tradition gives the richest reading: all that is in its early stage — fragile, still green, needing care and work — including love of life, creativity, imagination and the delighted look at the world. In its shadow, it warns of naivety, immaturity and carelessness. The Russian and Brazilian traditions meet on what matters: approach new situations with openness, without bias, honoring the freshness of what is possible.

The Gilded Lenormand

The Gilded Lenormand's Child is probably in his room, since the image shows a scene taking place indoors, with a window behind the figure. In front of the child is an open book from which emerges an imaginary castle, a rainbow, a doll or puppet, a spinning top, and dice or cubes with lettering. This illustration evokes childhood toys. It can broaden the initial meaning of the card by talking about the imagination and curiosity of children.

My interpretation

I don't really agree with an interpretation of a new beginning with the card 13 - Child. Because the infant in its cradle is more synonymous with birth, with departure. What's more, such an interpretation overlaps with the meaning of card 17 - The Stork which is the symbol of birth par excellence. So stay focused on the qualities of childhood, and avoid the trap of leaning towards the symbolism of the Stork. Especially as the theme of childhood is already vast enough :

• First of all the card naturally invites the consultant to approach the situation with confidence and hope. To be open and available in the way he/she conducts his/her actions.
• Of course, the Child can also talk about the need to do things with joy, with zest. To do things with spontaneity, without thinking too much, without thinking about the consequences. To lead with innocence, as if each new day were the first day of one's life. The Child is an invitation to put failures behind you and to move forward in your life as if everything were possible and accessible.
• The Child is also a player. Without doubt, the consultant must be mischievous, naughty, perhaps a prankster, or at least have a sense of humour.
• Finally, the Child is of course a being full of vitality and energy. The consultant is invited to recharge his or her batteries, to rediscover his or her energy and appetite, and to take a bite out of life.

In combination with other cards

Card 13 - The Child covers a vast field of interpretations that the other cards in the draw can clarify. A neighbouring card can express the quality of the Child that should be remembered: his joy (example: Bouquet), his innocence (example: Lily), etc. The card can also mean that one must look at the other cards of the draw with the eyes of a child or with a new look. Put energy where there is breathlessness, put humour where there is bad humour. The Child rejuvenates the neighbouring cards, gives them joy, energy, spontaneity. Either The Child will transfer his energy to the other cards, or The Child will become the centre of the draw, and link the neighbouring cards, just as the child makes the toys around him his own, uses them and mixes them to his taste.

Thematic interpretation

• Present : The consultant behaves like a child, both in a good way and a bad way. The juxtaposed cards will clarify the situation. Perhaps the consultant needs to grow up a bit, or on the contrary, he/she needs to find the eternal child within, in order to perceive the situation from a new angle.
• Love : The consultant or his/her partner may lack maturity in his/her relationship with the other person, as if he/she were looking for a father or a mother through the other person, because he/she missed the father or mother figure during his/her childhood. The consultant or his/her partner may want to live in the moment, without projecting him/herself, in a form of entertainment or fun, without really wanting to build a lasting relationship. Otherwise the two partners may be united by the same innocence, the childlike soul that they have managed to keep deep inside them, and that this is the cement of their couple.
• Work : The child has little place in the professional world. It is therefore necessary to question the reasons for its presence. The card may indicate a lack of experience or a lack of desire, requiring a rethink. The Child may also indicate that a career as an educator or teacher, or more broadly in the field of childhood is possible. It may also indicate the idea of cultivating the qualities of the child (joy, imagination, creativity) in artistic or other occupations, where these qualities are sought after or needed.

Classical interpretation

The Card 15 - The Bear is a massive and solid animal. It therefore embodies strength, stability, resistance and courage. It can be a powerful helper, and is an imposing and reassuring figure, so the card symbolises money, abundance, comfort. The classical interpretation invites to stay away from greedy and envious people. But the Bear can also be a formidable predator. It is usually difficult to escape from him !

Associated with the 10 of clubs, the Bear card is related to money, symbolising prosperous finances. This financial base can be a source of envy. The 10 of Clubs also speaks of moving.

Interpretation according to cultures

The Bear is the card of power, but European traditions read it differently. In France, it 'weighs' with its safe: money, banking, investment, food and life force. In Germany, it 'weighs' with status: male authority, boss, powerful older man. The Anglo-Saxon tradition sees leadership, mother's care and strength of character. The Brazilian tradition goes further in showing both sides: the Bear means raw force, control and selfishness — wanting all for yourself — but also giving, wealth and the skill to gather resources. It asks you to tell apart protection from control, caring from stifling. The Russian tradition shares this both-sides view: forcing power that can protect or press down based on context, often tied to a marked power bond in the client's circle.

The Gilded Lenormand

The Gilded Lenormand Bear is a polar bear with a white coat, making it less wild, with a form of purity. Moreover, his coat is not completely white, its colour has a green tinge, making the bear perhaps spiritual. Behind the bear, we can see ice ornaments with a transparent, crystalline appearance, amplifying the symbolism of purity.

My interpretation

I find it hard to associate the Bear with money, or even abundance, his great stature does not make him a symbol of profusion, on the contrary the bear hibernates and lives alone in the mountains, he is almost a hermit, at least of sobriety, little to do with abundance and money.

I don't really like the Gilded Lenormand's version of the bear, which is ultimately very beneficial and positive. Such a representation of the animal, makes it difficult to qualify, because this version does not take into account the wild side of the animal and the fact that it can be dangerous for man.

So in my interpretation of the Bear, I naturally retain the idea of its strength and resistance. In a reversed interpretation, I think the Bear symbolises risk, danger and adversity. Finally, I like the idea that the Bear can also be a symbol of solitude, of adventure through its life in the mountains, and a symbol of sobriety and withdrawal through its hibernation.

In combination with other cards

Because of its rather neutral appearance, the Bear deserves to be surrounded by cards that will suggest a direction of interpretation. The symbolism of the neighbouring cards helps to better interpret the Bear and to know if it should be perceived as a protective ally or on the contrary as a strong opponent. Conversely, the Bear can also spread its symbolism through the juxtaposed cards. He can transmit his tenfold energy, his vigour, his strength to less powerful cards. He can isolate a neighbouring card as the Bear is a solitary being. He can also hibernate the cards around him, make them less active, or delay their effects. The Bear is an imposing card in the game, for example much more so than card 14 - The Fox. So considering that the cards that touch the Bear, are in its territory, the Bear is the master.

Thematic interpretation

• Present : The consultant may have tenfold energy, take vigorous action, or show authority. But is this strength legitimate, benevolent ? The consultant should not be seen as a savage or angry person. But on the other hand, perhaps this strength is something that is missing in the consultant and he/she needs to develop this quality in him/her.
• Love : Perhaps the consultant is like the bear, living alone on top of the mountain and finding it difficult to meet other people. Perhaps it is his/her untamed, savage side that scares others. Perhaps the consultant has too much character and lacks sociability, even if he/she is already in a relationship.
• Work : The consultant may lack energy and courage at work, probably because of a lack of motivation. The consultant should become more aggressive and combative. Alternatively, the consultant may show real strength at work, but perhaps he/she is overdoing it, perhaps he/she is not leaving enough room for his/her collaborators or colleagues. Maybe communication is not the consultant's strong point, and doing things by oneself is no longer enough, maybe he/she has to learn to delegate his/her workload.

Classical interpretation

Card 17 - The Stork is synonymous with change, just as this bird migrates to new horizons. This card can therefore speak of long journeys, but also of lasting changes such as a move, or more globally, a change in the house or in daily life. Of course the card can also announce the birth of a child, so it also evokes fertility, motherhood, foresight.

The card is associated with the Queen of Hearts, representing a loyal and good advice character. It embodies confidence in those around it and in the future.

Interpretation according to cultures

The Stork is the card of change and rebirth, and traditions agree it is good. The Russian tradition announces major shifts, usually kind or certain, showing that a new phase starts and hard times can end. It asks you to welcome change rather than fight it. The Brazilian tradition brings this reading to life with strong pictures: the end of winter and spring coming, moving from a time of want to plenty. As a bird that travels far with sure direction, the Stork also shows moving, house changes and knowing where to go and when to leave. It links to making a family bigger. In its shadow, the Brazilian tradition signals constant unrest or trouble putting down roots that last.

The Gilded Lenormand

The Gilded Lenormand version shows a pair of storks, one of them holding a twig in its beak. The two storks are sitting on an empty nest. The sun shining behind, just above the twigs in the nest, could symbolise an egg of light. The card is about building a home.

My interpretation

The card has the merit of not being polarised and of being fairly neutral. The classical interpretation is in line with the symbolism of the stork. I extend the symbolism on the birth of the child to make card 17 - The Stork the card of "departure". Card 3 - The Ship, is the card of change, movement, and adventure par excellence. So with regard to the Stork, I focus not on the journey (migration) but on birth. In my interpretation of the Stork, I can talk about the arrival of a newborn of course (especially if card 13 - The Child is also present), but I will mostly talk about the need to make a new start with all the risks, the unknown factors that such a change entails.

In a sense very close to birth and fertility, generally I also make the Stork the card of creativity. Indeed, the departure that the Stork speaks of can be seen as creating change, creating a new situation, creating a new enterprise, well beyond creating through arts or crafts, which remains a valid option of course. The formula that would summarise the main idea of the card could be: "Create to make a new start".

In combination with other cards

Card 17 - The Stork can be the consequence of the neighbouring cards. Indeed, the juxtaposed cards can speak of the consultant's current situation and speak of a blocked situation in which he/she can turn in circles or feel powerless. The Stork will then invite to provoke a break with the current situation in order to make a new start and to get out of this frozen situation. In the continuity of this interpretation, other cards close to the Stork can support this new departure, and speak of the means, the tools, the objectives to be fixed in order to accomplish this rebirth.

Thematic interpretation

• Present : The consultant needs to rethink his/her current life and move towards a path that will be more meaningful to him/her. Perhaps he/she has already done this and even started this shift in his/her life, but he/she does not see the results. The Stork confirms the path of renewal, and even if the results are not yet there, they will come. The consultant must persevere on his/her path.
• Love : Naturally, if the consultant is young and in a relationship, the Stork may indicate good fertility and that there are no obstacles to having a child. If a baby is not in the couple's plans, it may be the idea of having a joint project, which could go as far as settling under the same roof and eventually founding a home. If the consultant is alone and looking for a meeting, the Stork indicates that there is hope and that a meeting may happen soon. He/she should remain open and seize the opportunities.
• Work : The consultant is invited to look for a new job, to look for new clients, to set up new services or to design new products. Or in a more global way, the Stork advises the consultant to review his/her business management strategy, or to change position or even to reorient his/her professional career.

Classical interpretation

Card 19 - The High Tower is a stable and solid building that can represent buildings such as a courthouse, a prison, an administration, any institution that can embody a form of authority. If the card refers to an administration with which the consultant is confronted, the card may be synonymous with a long, tedious process, a heavy administrative burden, lengthy delays, etc. Otherwise the High Tower can represent the weight of the hierarchy, but also the ascension in this same hierarchy, whether it is professional or social. The card is sensitive to the Clouds in the vicinity, the High Tower then announces illness.

The card is associated with the 6 of Spades which means complications, disputes or danger ahead.

Interpretation according to cultures

The High Tower is one of the cards whose meaning has shifted most between traditions. For mainland European school — France and Germany — it stays a sign of ruling power: governments, offices, big business, schools, law questions. The Anglo-Saxon tradition, shaped by Tarot, has swung it toward being alone, loneliness, ego and pulling away into yourself. The Brazilian tradition brings both together: the Tower shows both needed stepping back and thinking deeply, and also official ruling bodies, governments and those in power. From its high walls, it gives a broad and lifted view of the world. The Russian tradition backs this two-way reading: pulling apart and loneliness on one hand, dealing with official power structures on the other. In its shadow, all traditions agree: rigidity, cold feeling and too much time alone.

The Gilded Lenormand

The Gilded Lenormand version does not show a single tower, but rather three large towers in the middle of lush vegetation, as if these three towers were part of a long abandoned site only accessible to brave explorers. These buildings, with their spires rising to the sky, seem to be religious buildings or royal residences. This illustration suggests that the High Tower is not an easy place to conquer.

My interpretation

The classical interpretation is convincing, but we can add a few more nuances :

• The High Tower clearly rises from stable and solid foundations indicating that the building is still there for centuries and centuries. The consultant can evolve in a favorable, propitious and sustainable environment. He/she has the knowledge and resources necessary to develop and build his/her project and bring it to completion.
• The high Tower could also be synonymous with domination. The consultant could be at the foot of it with no possibility of entering or climbing it. He/she could be subjected to the authority of the occupant of the High Tower.
• On the contrary, the consultant could live in the Great Tower and observe the outside world from the top floor. He/she could be cut off from the base, from realities. He/she could be isolated in an "ivory tower" as if sitting on a throne, but limited by a reduced or illusory capacity for action, like a king without power or disconnected from the needs of his people.

In combination with other cards

The first question to ask when the High Tower is present in the draw is who lives on its top floor? A nearby card may be the answer. The High Tower can also impose its power and influence on the cards around it and dominate them. The neighboring cards can also represent means, tools to storm the High Tower and conquer it. In a contrary meaning, the High Tower could be seen as a fortress protecting the neighboring cards from its authority and strengthening them with its stability and solidity. In most draws, the High Tower is likely to be at the center of the interpretation, radiating out in some way to the neighboring cards. If the High Tower is not physically positioned at the center of the cards (which is likely), one must try to understand why the High Tower is far from its center of gravity, why it is off center. Unless it is some sort of isolated hermitage in a corner, on the periphery of the draw.

Thematic interpretation

• Present : The consultant profits from a true base and authority in his entourage. He/she must ask himself/herself if he/she uses his/her influence wisely. If not the consultant can be victim of a report of domination, he/she has to find the way not to undergo the will of the other. The consultant has the solid bases to develop his project.
• Love : The High Tower can mean that the couple's relationship is healthy and lasting. But it can also mean that one of the partners is barricaded in his crystal castle, locked in his certainties and limits. Otherwise, there may be a harmful balance of power within the couple. If the consultant is single, perhaps he/she is immersed in a form of solitude, a form of observation which immobilizes him/her and freezes him/her in inaction. Otherwise he/she dreams of Prince Charming or Cinderella, waits for and idealizes the love of his/her life, which will never come because it is unrealistic.
• Work : The consultant hopes to climb the steps of his/her professional and perhaps social ascension. The High Tower may indicate that the dream is attainable, that he/she can reach the desired promotion. However, the card can also speak of an unfavorable opinion among the hierarchy, administrative delays, constrained budgets, waiting for the opening of a new position, all of which can slow down the arrival of the promotion.

Classical interpretation

Card 21 - The Mountain portends obstacles, pitfalls, delays. Even more widely, the card foretells the arrival of enemies, annihilation, leading to discouragement, moral and physical exhaustion. In short, the problem seems insurmountable, just like the mountain. However, if the card is far away, you will get friendly help.

This card is associated with the 8 of Clubs and speaks of a success after many difficulties, it speaks of an inner fulfillment after a path of trials.

Interpretation according to cultures

The Mountain is the card of barriers and being stuck, and traditions agree on the core while each adds its own touch. The Russian tradition describes a heavy and fixed reality: lasting obstacles, blame, heavy burdens that slow or stop the client. It asks for patience and not giving up when trials add up, though it does not explore the changing side. The Brazilian tradition goes further: the Mountain stands as a major force that pushes a person to their own limits and asks for their best. It shows differences that cannot be resolved, rigidity and powerful people in the way, but also, in its light, the ability to bounce back, inner force and wisdom gained by overcoming trials. For the Brazilian tradition, each challenge beaten opens a wider view — a rise missing from the Russian reading.

The Gilded Lenormand

The Gilded Lenormand version shows a mountain with a snowy peak, obviously inaccessible. A dense forest extends at the foot of the relief. A deer appears in the foreground. The animal shows that finally one can conquer such a territory. The image can also give a feeling of escape.

My interpretation

The card 21 - The Mountain in its classical interpretation appears really negative, and does not suggest any solution. The only real way out is to consider this card as the "detour" card of the Lenormand system. Namely, that the mountain is impassable, and that one is forced to go around the obstacle and take another path. In itself, the card does not teach us much, but it can sound like an alert for the consultant who may need such a strong sign to question himself/herself and accept to look for another solution to reach his/her goals. This card can therefore be a useful warning in the face of real obstinacy.

In a broader interpretation, if the consultant is not faced with any insurmountable obstacle, the card can evoke the search for a contact with Nature, a form of return to one's roots, the desire to go back to nature. The Mountain rather than representing an insurmountable obstacle, can be seen as a virgin territory, not conquered by Man, where Nature has kept its full rights and remains wild.

To another extent, the card can be perceived as the need to take up a challenge, to seek strong sensations, to test oneself, to find oneself even, to seek one's limits. The Mountain can be an encouragement to surpass oneself.

In combination with other cards

If the Mountain is an obstacle in a draw, then try to find an alternative path or other ways around the obstacle in the surrounding cards. The Mountain can also evoke a territory to be conquered and the surrounding cards can show the means to achieve this. If the Mountain is an invitation to commit oneself and to go beyond one's capacities, the juxtaposed cards can indicate the objective and explain the necessity.

Thematic interpretation

• Present : The consultant is perhaps facing a real problem. He/she has the choice: either he/she prefers to do with his/her current means, so he/she has to bypass the blockage and follow another way, maybe longer but not more difficult. Or he/she takes new means, leaves his/her comfort zone, and takes the problem head on.
• Love : The consultant may be talking to a wall, his/her partner being like an inaccessible mountain. Or between the two partners, there is like a mountain or a gap that separates them. A difference, an opposition which feeds a tension and a conflict which seems inexorable. Maybe the couple needs to find themselves by going on vacation together in a quiet and wild place. As for the single consultant, he/she certainly needs to change strategy to meet someone or he/she needs to overcome his/her shyness, his/her bad character, or his/her defects which prevent him/her from maintaining a lasting relationship.
• Work : The consultant may be facing a financial, structural or other problem in his company. It seems that he/she will not be able to solve the problem and has to find an alternative, to recapitalize the company, to develop other products on other markets. Otherwise the consultant can be in conflict with his boss, have a real problem of competence, and his presence within the company is not assured anymore. Undoubtedly the consultant should follow a training, find another job, see his professional future differently.

Classical interpretation

Card 23 - The Mice can foretell small losses of money, thefts by profiteers or escapes by malicious persons. All of these are reminiscent of how mice get into homes to gnaw or nibble away at supplies. This without being noticed. Mice are also synonymous with problems that are invisible or painless at first, but become important as time goes by. Thus the card can speak of stress or fear of a situation getting worse. The mouse is also a fearful animal that can succumb to severe stress. If the card is close, the lost object can be found, but if it is far away, the loss is irreparable.

The card is associated with the 7 of clubs evoking anxiety, doubt and questioning about the future.

Interpretation according to cultures

The Mouse is the card of loss that happens quietly and bit by bit, and traditions share the same basic finding. The Russian tradition is direct: slow loss, theft, material decay and worries that gnaw — a situation, health or bond getting worse slowly. It is a warning card. The Brazilian tradition greatly adds to this picture: the Mouse works in shadow, out of sight, showing all that slips away little by little without notice — like the faults that eat at us. It adds the side of spreading harm, uncleanliness and concerns that drain energy over time. It also says losses can be stuff, feelings or physical. In its light — unique to the Brazilian tradition —, the Mouse can push you to find what gnaws and remove it before it is too late. All traditions agree: stay alert and take action early.

The Gilded Lenormand

The Gilded Lenormand version features 5 mice. One, an acrobat, is clinging to a string, his paws in the air. A second is resting on a loaf of bread, a third is sniffing. In the background of the image, the last two mice seem to be exploring the place. There are nibbles of fruit, bread, a pot and a pitcher in the background. The author gives a vision that conforms to the standard interpretation, without adding other points of view.

My interpretation

As it is, the card 23 - The Mice is not very interesting. It evokes small losses that can only occasionally be associated with the consultant's situation. Concerning stress, other cards of the Lenormand system speak of it in a more precise and tangible way, such as 8 - The Coffin, 10 - The Scythe, 21 - The Mountain, 36 - The Cross. If the consultant asks for a reading, it is because he/she is experiencing an uncomfortable situation. So talking to him/her about stress, even on a daily basis, does not teach him/her anything as such. Also, it seems judicious to go well beyond the standard interpretation, by following for example the following perspectives:

• In the same way that a mouse explores a place, searches, snoops around to find its food. The consultant must perhaps linger on the details, investigate carefully, think deeply, in any case not stop on an overview of the situation and a global reading of the facts. The consultant perhaps misses significant details which are however the origin of his problem or his solution.
• Just as the mouse stores its food in its burrow. Perhaps the consultant needs to rationalize his finances, his efforts, his possessions. Perhaps he/she needs to save, to spend less, perhaps he/she needs to throw away less or trade. The card may speak of capitalizing on one's investments, buying instead of renting. The Mice can invite to live in sobriety and prepare for a difficult tomorrow.
• Mice take refuge underground and live in their burrows. The card can encourage the consultant to flee from predators, to take refuge during the storm, in short to flee the light, to keep a low profile, to remain discreet, to live incognito.

In combination with other cards

If we keep the classical interpretation, the nearby cards may indicate what losses are caused by the Mice, or what are the origins of the stress experienced. If one is interested in the extended interpretation, the nearby cards could evoke the details on which one must focus. Alternatively, the consultant may need to rationalize and economize in areas expressed by the nearby cards. Finally, one of the juxtaposed cards could represent a predator or a danger from which the consultant should cautiously move away.

Thematic interpretation

• Present : The consultant can feel dispossessed of certain aspects of his life, which can plunge him into a feeling of discomfort. He/she must then try to better understand his/her stress by focusing on the origins of his/her feeling. In order to regain control of his/her life, he/she may need to be cautious, to make sure that he/she does not throw money away, to better maintain his/her possessions. Regarding the future, he/she should probably be forward-looking, consider the risks and anticipate the problems.
• Love : The couple seems to get along well, but there may be a few areas of disagreement that don't put the relationship at risk. But over time, these disagreements can build up and become real issues. Perhaps it is necessary to anticipate and disarm future conflicts by talking openly about what seem to be minor points of disagreement, but which may hide deeper discomfort. One of the partners might have a secret garden that it's time to come clean about. If the consultant is single or has difficulty in establishing a lasting relationship, perhaps he/she lacks attention towards the other. During the meetings, perhaps he/she should have more small attentions. Otherwise, he/she could easily get carried away and lack prudence regarding the future of the relationship.
• Work : The consultant is invited to be cautious about the future prospects of his company. Undoubtedly he/she should consolidate his/her cash flow in order to compensate for the sales in decline or the losses to come. If the consultant is employed, perhaps it is better to keep his current position rather than to take the risk to look for a new job and to find himself in a difficult financial situation. If he/she is an employee and is the object of criticisms from his/her hierarchy, perhaps it is better to remain concentrated on his/her tasks and not to pay attention to passing moods.

Classical interpretation

Card 25 - The Ring symbolizes the marriage and union between two people. Of course the concept must be extended to an alliance between several people, an agreement within a group, the signing of a contract, the creation of an association or a partnership. Of course the Ring can represent a jewel or a precious object. Attention, the card speaks of a lasting union and confirms the fidelity of the partners when it is to the right of the Significator (28 - Man or 29 - Woman), but it speaks of a rupture if it is to the left or far away.

The card is associated with the Ace of Clubs which stands for triumph and spiritual evolution.

Interpretation according to cultures

The Ring is the card of promise and joining, and traditions agree on its base. The Russian tradition gives a solid reading: lasting bonds, contracts, deals, formal joining — a love bond or work partnership. It stresses the value of loyalty and staying true, and knows that breaking a deal or divorce can fit too based on context. The Brazilian tradition goes further in the thinking about bonds: how solid a union is rests on each keeping their word — if one fails, the tie weakens. It stresses staying together, being sound, fitting well with each other and the force that comes from union. In its shadow, the Brazilian tradition finds nuances the Russian tradition leaves unspoken: doing the same thing over, heavy duty or stuck in a promise that no longer helps. All traditions remind us that a bond's worth lies in its balance and giving back.

The Gilded Lenormand

In the Gilded Lenormand version, the ring is set with gemstones, with a flash of light on the red stone, a ruby. Circles form the background of the image. In this form, the card does not seem to bring any new possible interpretations to the classical meaning.

My interpretation

I make the card of The Ring, the card of "link" and "connection". Naturally, I take up the whole of the classical interpretation, adding the following nuances:

• In his/her questioning, the consultant forgets to link two pieces of information. Perhaps he/she needs to link two seemingly contradictory pieces of information, but which when married together could provide an unexpected answer with a different perspective on the situation.
• The Ring may represent an emotional or spiritual bond, an attachment of the consultant to certain aspects of his/her life.
• In a multi-card draw, the Ring may invite the connection or fusion of two other cards.

In combination with other cards

In a multi-card draw, the Ring may indicate to the consultant to ally with someone. This person can be represented by a card juxtaposed to The Ring. But if The Ring is perceived negatively, this association with the neighbouring card must be broken. The Ring can also mean that two neighbouring cards must be married. Perhaps it is necessary to "kill two birds with one stone", to "combine the useful with the pleasant". In short, one must do two actions in one in order to optimise one's chances of success, to minimise the time spent, to be more efficient, etc. If the Ring speaks of an alliance that must be concluded, the nearby cards can evoke the points of blockage, or on the contrary the points of convergence. Thus, around the Ring, the cards can represent the pros and cons of the alliance at play. If the Ring speaks of an emotional or spiritual bond, a nearby card can symbolise the object of it (a memory, a place, a person, an event, etc.).

Thematic interpretation

• Present : The consultant needs to think about an alliance. Either the partnership is ongoing but does not seem to be successful. Or the consultant needs to reflect on the alliance he/she is about to enter into. The Ring may represent a relationship that the consultant has nurtured and needs to let go of.
• Love : If the consultant is in a relationship, this is a first impression that the relationship is long lasting and stable. Beware of nearby cards which may temper this positive reading. The couple could also be too close, too fused, which could lead to a feeling of suffocation. If the consultant is alone, the Ring does not necessarily speak of a happy encounter to come, but perhaps of a past relationship to which the consultant is too attached and which prevents him/her from moving on.
• Work : The consultant may need to mature the decision to sign a major contract. He/she may also have to think about finding new suppliers, to surround him/herself with new collaborators. In more graphic terms, the consultant may have to think about merging departments within his company. A craftsman might combine several types of service into one to minimise costs, offer a better rate, or get new clients. Perhaps it is time to look for another partner to strengthen the human resources ?

Classical interpretation

Card 27 - The Letter talks about messages that are given or received. This news can be good or bad depending on the neighbouring cards. It can also be a contract to sign, a form to fill out, or a document to write. In all cases, the Letter represents a need to communicate. Naturally, with the rise of the Internet, the Letter can symbolise emails, SMS or other instant messages, all forms of modern communication. In the strict interpretation the news is rather good, but if the Clouds are close, it becomes bad.

The card is associated with the 7 of Spades which indicates small annoyances or ephemeral conflicts.

Interpretation according to cultures

The Letter is the card of written talk and data sent with a goal. The Russian tradition reads it very concretely: any important paper — deal, call to appear, notice, big message. The closer it is to the client's card, the more vital the papers in question. It can show a love note as well as an official warning. The Brazilian tradition adds a more symbolic side: the Letter shows data that goes from a sender to a set receiver, with a set path and a set goal. It also evokes bringing to light, turning outward, ads and forms from offices. Its life span is short — it loses worth once its goal is met. In its light, all traditions agree: talk that is clear and good news. In its shadow, the Brazilian tradition points to what the Russian tradition passes by: heavy bureaucracy, message that comes too late or shallow talk.

The Gilded Lenormand

In the Gilded Lenormand version, the letter is taken out of its envelope and a feather is placed beside it. On the table are symbols and the names of the Little Lenormand cards. It is difficult to tell from the picture whether the letter has been received or whether it has just to be sent. In the case of a received letter, the fact that the envelope has been opened may mean that the news is as expected. That there are no real surprises.

My interpretation

Card 27 - The Letter is the card that gives me the most trouble in the Lenormand system. Indeed, I make card 12 - The Birds, the card of communication. Also the Letter covers the area of the Birds in terms of conversations and dialogues, even though one can consider that the Birds are more oral and the Letter more written. Then card 1 - The Rider speaks of the arrival of a message, as does the Letter. Then the Letter can speak of a document to be filled out in the case of an administrative procedure, but this can also be the domain of card 19 - The Tower, or even of card 26 - The Book. In short, in my opinion, card 27 - The Letter is partly or wholly redundant with cards 1 - The Rider, 12 - The Birds, 19 - The Tower, 26 - The Book. One may ask whether card 27 - The Letter is really useful ?

First of all we can remove card 27 - The Letter from the deck (yes, why not ? ^_^), and use only 35 cards instead of 36. However, this poses a problem when doing the "Grand Tableau" draw. Then, of course, you can keep it in the 36-card deck, and see the Letter as a duplicate card confirming the Rider, the Birds, the Tower or the Book, depending on the point of view adopted.

So I tend to make this card the "surprise" card rather than a "communication" card duplicating the Birds card.

In combination with other cards

Card 27 - The Letter speaks of a communication received or to be made. The neighbouring cards can therefore indicate the sender, the recipient, or the nature of the message. Generally the cards next to each other indicate whether the news is good or bad, as the Letter is rather neutral. If the Letter is perceived as a surprise, the neighbouring cards can indicate the nature of the surprise.

Thematic interpretation

• Present : The consultant may expect an unexpected event despite the fact that if you look at the situation in detail you can predict what will happen next, and anticipate the good or bad news.
• Love : An external event may disrupt the couple's daily routine. Perhaps it is time to reserve a small surprise, a small gift for the other as proof of his or her feelings and attention. If the consultant is alone, the Letter may indicate an upcoming meeting, but predictable because it is in the close circle. Someone who has not been noticed but who has already spotted the consultant.
• Work : Similarly, the Letter speaks of a surprising situation, but not so much if one is lucid and forward-looking in one's work.

Classical interpretation

Like the Man, the card 29 - The Woman represents the woman, the consultant herself. If it is a consultant, the Woman will represent the lover, the wife, the mother or simply a woman in the entourage. Whatever the relationship between this woman and the consultant, she is of particular importance to the question of the draw.

This card is associated with the Ace of Spades, which is a very bad omen. In fortune-telling it is the most negative card in the deck.

Interpretation according to cultures

The Woman is the card of the female figure in the draw, and works in the same way as the Man card. The Russian tradition gives a clean reading that mirrors the Man: it names the female client if she is a woman, or a female figure close by — wife, mother, daughter, lover — if the client is a man. Where it sits next to the Man card shows the bond between the two. The Brazilian tradition adds a symbolic side of its own: the Woman shows intuition, the ability to take in, presence and female lead as a guiding force. It stresses that what it means grows based on the cards next to it, and that in its light, it shows warmth, sharp sight, teamwork and the gift of welcoming. In its shadow — unique to the Brazilian tradition —, it can show doubt, envy, moving others or slowness that blocks needed action.

The Gilded Lenormand

In the Gilded Lenormand, the card comes in two versions. The first card shows a pensive young woman leaning over a book, holding a red rose in her hand. A window is behind her. The second card shows a young woman with long hair and make-up looking out of a window. Loose clothing opens over her bare chest. She is wearing a necklace with the female symbol. The fact that the deck comes with two No. 29 cards makes it possible to do the "Grand Tableau" draw with two Woman cards instead of one Man and one Woman card. This makes the lesbian love draw more consistent.

My interpretation

I have the same opinion as for the Man card, i.e. the Woman card is only really useful in the love draw of the "Grand Tableau". In a classic draw of 3 to 7 or more cards, the presence of the Woman can indicate the intervention of a woman. But if the draw is about a financial or other matter, the Woman card may be meaningless.

As with The Man card, I like to think of this card as the consultant's "mirror" card if she is a woman. As if the consultant is looking in the mirror. What question, what emotion comes up in her? Is she able to face her own gaze and accept her own image? In short, this is an introspection card.

If the consultant is a man, the card may evoke the feminine aspects of his personality. Is he receptive? Is he sufficiently attentive to others ? Perhaps he is too sensitive or emotional ? Is he stingy, not generous enough ? Or on the contrary, is he too generous, too kind ? Does he lack confidence? Is he or she moody ? Above all, it is an invitation to introspection.

In combination with other cards

If we take the classical interpretation of the card, the Woman can bring little information to the draw. Often, it is useful to complete the interpretation thanks to the neighbouring cards. If the evocation of a woman is validated, the nearby cards will clarify her personality or even her identity. If not, the Woman card is so neutral and empty that it should not be taken into account. Unless, like me, you see it as an introspective card, in which case, ask the consultant more questions. Look for a "mirror" effect or a "feminine" aspect that might be the source of the problem or perhaps its solution.

Thematic interpretation

• Present : The consultant is not sufficiently aware of the face he/she gives to others. There may be an opposition between his/her actions and his/her deep, inner values. Perhaps he/she is searching for him/herself ? That he/she does not accept what he/she considers to be faults or weaknesses in him/her ?
• Love : If the consultant is a man or lesbian, the Woman can of course represent his lover or wife. The nearby cards can indicate what he/she should think of her. If the consultant is single, a meeting with a woman is possible soon. If the consultant is a heterosexual woman, the Woman can indicate a competitor, an opponent, such as the mother of her fiancé.
• Work : The consultant should perhaps ask himself/herself if he/she has good human relations in his/her work ? Is he/she too introverted, intrusive, distrustful or cold ? The consultant should ask himself/herself about the importance of human relations even in the context of his/her work.

Classical interpretation

Card 31 - The Sun is the card of radiance, light, optimism, charisma. The card instills a powerful energy, a feeling of life, a joyful emotion, a sense of well-being. The Sun chases away clouds, removes problems, eliminates worries. It is a protective card that mitigates negative cards. If the Sun represents a person, he or she will be charismatic, popular, even famous, showing magnetism, but he or she can also be too extroverted, inconstant.In the strict interpretation, the Sun brings happiness but is disturbed by the proximity of the Clouds.

The card is associated with the Ace of Diamonds which is a card of achievement. In classical fortune-telling, the card also speaks favourably of the business world.

Interpretation according to cultures

The Sun is one of the most favorable cards in the game, and traditions share this view fully. The Russian tradition makes it a sign of shining success: luck, happiness, wishes coming true, fame and being known well. It stresses its power to lift up — it strengthens good cards nearby and softens bad ones — and can show the end of a hard time and return to a happy life. The Brazilian tradition adds a deeper thinking: the Sun shines openly, shows truth for anyone who wants to see, and means the energy of growth — gold, royalty, big luck. It also shows trust in yourself and personal shine: knowing your own worth and daring to take the place that is yours. In its shadow — unique to the Brazilian tradition —, it can point to caring too much about yourself, pride or a bright light that blinds and burns.

The Gilded Lenormand

In the Gilded Lenormand, the card shows a sun with a golden face, as in the Tarot de Marseille. The multiple rays go in all directions. Below the face is a sundial with the hours, the shadow points to the number 6. In this deck, the Sun is a card of triumph, of a moment of glory, drawing the admiration of all.

My interpretation

The Sun card can be a problem in the Lenormand system because of the range of meanings of the sun symbol. This problem also exists with the 24 - Heart and 32 - Moon cards, which offer a wide range of interpretations, where the system is intended to be simple, effective and unambiguous. So, as with the Heart and the Moon, with the Sun you have to know what you are holding on to as a meaning.

For my part, I do not retain the values of happiness and success of the classical interpretation of the Sun, because they are already conveyed by the cards 2 - The Clover, 9 - The Bouquet, 16 - The Stars. I therefore stick to a traditional symbolism of the Sun which is concerned with radiance, optimism and achievement. But very clearly with the symbol of the sun, we could also speak of vitality, individuality, power to act and to emancipate, fertility, growth and development, light and energy.

In combination with other cards

Like the Lily, the Sun tends to radiate onto neighbouring cards. Negative cards see their effect diminished. The energy of the Sun unblocks situations, moves projects forward, brings contracts to fruition, and makes meetings happen. In general, the Sun brings to life what should be (positive) in the other cards. The Sun tends to be in the centre of the draw, and not a satellite of a nearby card. However, the Sun can be faulted, and a juxtaposed card can introduce a weakness in the Sun that will nuance or even counteract its interpretation. In astronomy, the sun is said to have dark spots, and neighbouring cards can represent them.

Thematic interpretation

• Present : The consultant is a person who needs to gain confidence, nurture joy and lightness, in order to reach out and help others. It is also possible that the consultant is too extroverted, that he/she overshadows others, that he/she is inconsistent, unreliable, neglecting those around him/her.
• Love : The Sun can naturally mean that the couple is in a bright and happy relationship. However, one of the two partners may be too imposing, too paternalistic, not leaving enough room for the other to live and grow. If the consultant is alone, the Sun can reassure him/her that it is only a matter of time before a meeting takes place. The Sun may indicate that the consultant is too extravagant, too casual to be of interest to a serious person. Or the consultant may simply be so impressive in appearance and stature that he/she frightens others. The consultant seems inaccessible to others.
• Work : The consultant can be a patriarchal figure at work which can be counterproductive. The consultant could delegate more responsibility and make his/her colleagues more autonomous. If the consultant is an employee, he/she may have made him/herself indispensable, whether consciously or not. Being at the centre of the group can have its advantages, but also its disadvantages of course. If the consultant is unemployed, he/she may have to start his/her own business, or become more self-confident and expose himself/herself and commit himself/herself more to find a new position.

Classical interpretation

Card 33 - The Key is naturally one of the easiest cards to understand. Because the key opens a closed door, the card indicates success, the solution to the problem if it is close. If it is far away, on the contrary, the Key announces failure.

The card is associated with the 8 of diamonds which is a good sign for travel or work.

Interpretation according to cultures

The Key is the card of answers, openings and free will, and traditions share a common positive base. The Russian tradition is direct: a good choice, the right way, the answer waited for and freeing a hard situation. It shows the client is about to step into a new phase. Ringed by bad cards though, it can instead show doors shut, a poor choice or delay in moving ahead. The Brazilian tradition adds a deeper thinking side: the Key shows free will itself — it is the hand that holds it that chooses if it opens or closes, joins or parts. It stresses human duty in freeing up situations, and spreads the symbolic field to pass-codes, safe secrets and gates to other worlds. In its shadow, the Brazilian tradition adds a warning missing from the Russian reading: waiting too much for magic answers or a sure thing that ignores the real world's complex shades.

The Gilded Lenormand

The Gilded Lenormand Key has an intricate bit, its ring is set with precious stones. Behind it is an open birdcage. Inside is a red rose. The author is thus evoking a solution or success that may be complex to find and therefore difficult to implement. The cage and the rose undoubtedly evoke the release of a desire, made possible by the key.

My interpretation

Beyond an announced success or the release from a closed situation or a hold, the key could speak :

• A sudden flash of inspiration, an emerging idea, a stroke of genius, perhaps even a stroke of poker.
• A sudden opening, a situation unblocked, brakes released, new accessibility or availability.
• Be the 'yes' card in a closed question calling for a positive or negative answer.

In combination with other cards

The Key can mean that one of its neighbouring cards will tip over, become free, find a favourable outcome. If there are several negative cards around the Key, I don't believe that the Key will resolve all the cards. Perhaps it is necessary to find the negative card that will benefit from the liberating power of the Key. One of the juxtaposed cards in the Key could be the solution the consultant is looking for. Another card close by could represent what is locked up and deserves to be released.

Thematic interpretation

• Present : The consultant has all the cards in hand to decide and act in the right direction. Otherwise, if he/she does not know, the solution is in the neighbouring cards. In any case, the solution or the evidence is there, in front of the eyes.
• Love : If the consultant is single, he/she is on the way to understanding his/her situation, the reason for his/her failures, or to concretise a fruitful encounter this time. If the consultant is in a couple, perhaps he/she will find an agreement or a solution to a problem or a conflict with his/her partner. If the couple's life is harmonious, then it may be a common project that has been in the works for a long time and will finally come to life.
• Work : The consultant must take inventory of his or her ideas and thoughts at the moment. Amongst the thoughts that mobilise him/her, there is probably a life-saving idea that will solve a technical problem, resolve a client's problem, enable the development of a new product or a new type of service. Or perhaps the consultant needs to organise a brainstorming meeting in order to come up with innovative ideas that will revitalise the dynamics of his/her activity or team.

Classical interpretation

Card 35 - The Anchor speaks of successful ventures in the business world and of fidelity in love. It is therefore a happy card. The Anchor can also naturally represent stability, the security of a situation. Away from it, the Anchor is the opposite, meaning an unhappy business and an unfaithful love.

The card is associated with the 9 of Spades which is a particularly negative card in fortune-telling. Between the classic 52-card deck and the Lenormand system, we are never far from a contradiction.

Interpretation according to cultures

The Anchor is the card of steady ground, trust and hope held firm, and traditions meet on its basically good nature. The Russian tradition is firm: it is always a good card, no matter what is around it — solid bonds, safety, care, staying true and trust. It ties to work and all that lasts. Badly ringed or far from the client, it can signal lightness or shaky faith. The Brazilian tradition goes deeper with sea and spirit signs: the Anchor is the safe port that holds the ship in storms, and in Christian signs, it shows hope and belief — the firm faith that aid will come back. It means staying true, holding firm and lasting work. In its shadow — unique to the Brazilian tradition —, it can show staying still by holding too tight to what is known, or mixing steady ground with not moving: the time to lift the anchor and go forward.

The Gilded Lenormand

The Gilded Lenormand Anchor floats on the waters of the sea. Two carved fish adorn the two arms of the anchor. Several seagulls fly over the anchor while clouds fill the sky. The threatening storm is a reminder that the Anchor is a strong object that can withstand the elements. The fish are linked to the card of the same name. So for the author the Anchor is also a symbol of abundance and wealth, although I don't fully understand why. Especially since he adds that in the Lenormand tradition this card also conveys hope and faith (as opposed to card 36 - The Cross which follows).

My interpretation

The Anchor is solidly made, so it evokes a safe, secure situation in the face of a difficult and exhausting trial. We can also add that the card could speak of a form of resilience or possibly a fighting spirit. In any case, it is of course synonymous with an anchoring, a deep centring that nothing seems to destabilise. It can also be seen as a call for calm and patience.

This anchoring therefore evokes a powerful force that holds things in place and together. So much so, that one could not get rid of it, could not get out of it. In such a case, the card could speak of an Anchor which becomes a kind of ball and chain, holding the consultant back or even holding him/her back. He/she could be immobilised by a dead weight.

This brings us to a very interesting interpretation of this card, which is the notion of attachment. The Anchor could therefore represent a bond so strong that it becomes a constraint, handcuffs preventing one from leading one's life with freedom and agility. The Anchor can therefore invite detachment. At some point, should we not lift the anchor and cast off ?

Finally, the anchor may recall the shape of the double hook. Isn't there something that irresistibly attracts the consultant? Hasn't he/she been hooked, trapped by something, by someone ?

In combination with other cards

In association with other cards, the Anchor can bring them together, making them solid and linked when these cards seem to oppose each other. The Anchor can thus be the center of the draw and consolidate it. One of the most interesting aspects is to guess the link that unites all the cards in the draw. On the other hand, the Anchor can invite the consultant to cut a link instead of establishing one. Also, it is necessary to get rid of a neighboring card that acts as a weight for the consultant. If he/she is in trouble, the Anchor acts as a reinforcement and assures that he/she must hold on. The neighboring cards can describe the trials in progress, but also indicate means and solutions to not give up and survive the storm.

Thematic interpretation

• Present : The consultant must hold on to his/her values, mobilize all his/her resources if he/she is in the middle of a trial. If he/she feels rather stuck, handcuffed, the Anchor may be a call to step back and detach.
• Love : If the consultant is in a couple, the Anchor probably speaks of a great bond between the two partners, of a loyal and faithful relationship. If the consultant is single, perhaps he/she must accept his/her solitude, like the old sea wolf braving the hurricane at the helm of his/her ship. Maybe he/she should stop having a woman/man in every port, and finally drop anchor. That is to say, to settle down in a lasting relationship and stop having one-night stands.
• Work : The company's situation is solid and stable. So the job is guaranteed if the consultant is an employee, or the customers and the contracts are numerous if he/she is self-employed or a boss.