All cups are associated with the element of water; therefore, all the cup cards will symbolise an emotional state. They don't represent events but our responses to those outer events and other external stimuli. Cups will appear during emotionally intense periods and can act as an early warning system for energy depletion. The cup cards

Often represents an authority figure, so official dealings could come up. When it represents a person, he can be very good at teaching and giving direction but may not always have a good grasp on the practical/physical outcome of his ideas. Like the Queen of Swords, he can be slow to offer emotional support but is great if

This is the woman you need to turn to for advice. She will be impartial and fair. She gives clear communication and delivers opinions without being caught up in emotion. She isn't just going to tell you what you want to hear, and if you're looking for tea and sympathy, you need to find someone else. Negatively, she is cold and calculating

If this card represents an actual person, he's one of those who brings complete chaos and then leaves all the mess for you to tidy up. Quite often, it indicates a period of increased activity that doesn't lead to anything substantial unless other cards say otherwise. I've found that the Knight of Swords normally indicates three to four

When she represents a person, she is mentally sharp and inquisitive. This card shows someone who needs to express ideas, and whilst she may have some amazing qualities, the ability to read people’s emotions isn't one of them. The Page of Swords is usually happiest when she's socialising and mixing with large numbers

Here is the maximum available fulfilment under current circumstances. Nothing more can be achieved at this stage, yet it can be maintained with conscious effort. This achievement is fragile, and there is sensitivity present. The energy here is fluid; it's emotion in motion. A celebration could be in order. This card can

An unpleasant card signifying extreme mental anguish. Sometimes it can be self-inflicted through excessive self-doubt and self-criticism, whilst at other times it can show the battle that takes place mentally when we have had a fall out with someone close. Insomnia can be a problem at this time or disturbing dreams that linger

This is the card of going around and around in mental circles. It frequently appears in readings where unrequited love is an issue. There can be a distinct lack of communication, and normally, there will be a particular situation that has been doing your head in for some time. It's like being paralysed by fear but not of

I've found that the seven has a couple of different angles. One is that we can get caught in a cycle of wanting something but believing we can't have it. The other is that there is some sneaky and underhand behaviour going on. This behaviour may be us, or it could be someone close, and its position in the reading should clarify this.

There is an ease of movement through difficult times when the six shows up, and whilst conditions may not be entirely pleasant, there is an indication of detachment from distress. It could be that you can get just enough space to deal with the situation more rationally. Whatever the circumstances, the six of swords says you are

This card will appear when we are feeling pretty hopeless. It gives a no-win situation, yet the battle seems to rage regardless. Part of the problem here is that the battle was pointless, to begin with. Damned if you do and damned if you don't. There could be an unconscious memory of defeat from a similar situation.

This card symbolises peace and a temporary sense of order. Coming after the three of swords, feeling calm can be a welcome relief. Time out may be needed for rest and recovery after a difficult or challenging period. It's a good card to get when you're ill or under the weather because it shows that healing will come.

This card points towards grief and separation anxiety. If you're in a relationship when it appears, it's possible that you will either split up or have to endure emotional pain through separation. There could be a physical distance between you and your beloved or a third party getting in the way. This card will also show up in

The two of swords is often shown with a blindfolded person indicating that the perspective may not be clear. Nonetheless, a compromise has been reached, and for now, there is a state of mental balance. If you don't feel this is the case, then the two indicates that this balance will be reached quickly, usually within two days

This card indicates a new way of thinking and typically appears when mental clarity is about to be received. It is not so much a card of action, but the moment everything becomes clear. You know what you are doing and what you want to do next. If your head has been clouded, this card says don't worry about it

All swords carry an association with the element of air. Swords deal with thoughts and the working through of ideas. This extends to communication, but the kind of communication shown by the sword cards is not necessarily rooted in emotion. It would traditionally indicate a certain level of detachment from feeling.

An older man who is secure in work. Often he is well established in his chosen field. Like the queen, he is practical and realistic, yet he may be considered dull and lifeless at times, although he is a great provider and a steady and reliable husband. Touch is important, and like all pentacle court cards, he can be very sensual

A naturally earthy woman. Concerns are mainly on the physical plane. She has a willingness to nurture others or animals. Needs a reliable connection to the earth, either through her garden or possibly food. Grounded and realistic but may at times lack drive and motivation. Usually stable and practical but prone to depression

The younger version of the king. Materialistic and ambitious for status. Has desires to create a lasting legacy. This card can show a material increase is on its way. Good news around work but a need to keep working hard if comfort is to be achieved. Laziness must be overcome. Sometimes shows a move to a quieter location

The page of pentacles is aware of her body and has an earthy charisma that will do what needs to be done on a practical level. She may still need to develop patience and endurance, but she is willing to learn. There is growth around her, and she wants to succeed on the material plane. The person