Comic Strip Spread

Difficulty: Easy
Note: This spread works best with decks like the Diary of a Broken Soul or Surrealist Tarot because they display scenes rather than pips and do not use reversals.
The Comic Strip Spread is a simple nine-card chronological spread that looks like a page of a comic book. This method should be used to get a glimpse of the future as it would pan out naturally. It may be insightful to use this spread in coordination with biorhythms. The spread is easy to read as a storyboard, just like a comic strip.
The main subject is apparent in the first card, while the story plays out through the following tarot cards.
It is important to pay particular attention to the cards and the relationships with their neighbours. Notice which directions the cards are facing, and how they interact.
Your Comic Strip Reading
Temperance![]() |
2 of Hearts![]() |
5 of Diamonds![]() |
10 of Spades![]() |
Page of Spades![]() |
2 of Diamonds![]() |
Queen of Hearts![]() |
9 of Diamonds![]() |
3 of Clubs![]() |
Card 1: Temperance
Temperance demonstrates the ability to maintain equilibrium between opposing elements; she is the bridge between extremes.
The Seeker as Temperance suggests a path of moderation; seeking internal balance before one is ready to face external challenges. This card may indicate the need to resolve conflicting aspects within ourselves before we are able to restore peace into our environment.
As a situation, this card indicates a stage of mediating between opposing views; finding the middle ground to facilitate progress; restoring order in a disruptive environment. As such, we may need to explore options that allow amicable solutions to present themselves rather than allow one or the other extreme to take over.
Card 2: 2 of Hearts
The unconditional sharing on a romantic or spiritual level with another like-minded being. Tuning in to the desires, thoughts and emotions of a person we resonate with whereby we feel we have become one being as opposed to two individuals. If the relationship is unhealthy or not balanced it can indicate one person is being clingy or manipulative of the emotions of their partner.
Card 3: 5 of Diamonds
Experiencing of hardship. Acknowledgement that suffering can be partnered with dignity, particularly if it is open to public scrutiny. Either being supported, or the offering support at a time of need. Being receptive to the energies of others, particularly if they are there to help or protect against external influences.
Card 4: 10 of Spades
The feeling of being under intense and unrelenting mental pressure. Believing it is not possible to cope with what is happening, or that it is not possible to deal with any further or additional issues. The need to find an outlet for internal mental anguish so that the heaviness can be eased in some way. The possibility of unresolved past issues resurfacing, which may then give the impression they are haunting us in a way that makes escape seem impossible. Failing to see the light indicating there is a way out from your current mental state.
Card 5: Page of Spades
Concise method of expression using appropriate methods or tools for any given situation. Changing the environment around you by replacing anything that harbours memories of the past or elicits less than conducive emotion. Change of approach whereby the bigger picture becomes more apparent.
Card 6: 2 of Diamonds
Being met with choices or options although there is no clear indication as to which alternative will prove to be the most beneficial. Offering of a choice to another but without giving due guidance as to repercussions of each on offer. Insight may be the key to success. Being wary of what is on offer, questioning the motives behind what is being presented.
Card 7: Queen of Hearts
The ability to 'read' on an emotional level thus seeing what may be hidden from us (often classed as being able to see behind the mask). The ability utilises a different angle of approach thus having a deeper understanding in comparison to others who only have two dimensional abilities. Overcoming or conquering of fears. Taking control of emotions whereby calm can then ensue. This could indicate a person who keeps their feelings to themselves, preferring to only show what they feel comfortable in showing, with a lot happening below the surface.
Card 8: 9 of Diamonds
The emptying of your life or environment of anything that is surplus to requirement, or no longer has relevance. Reflecting on what has gone, not realising there is still much to be gained in other ways. Lack of preparation for a journey or destination whereby there may be an expectation for everything to be provided to you instead of by you. The emotion of disappointment now in passing, with a readiness to learn from the experience before moving on.
Card 9: 3 of Clubs
Leaving behind of constraints, or the use of our spiritual wings to soar higher. The confidence to stretch ourselves and reach higher than we thought was initially achievable. The keeping of our feet on the earth, where we focus on what is within reach as opposed to trying for something that is possibly beyond our means. Can also indicate not wanting to extend our abilities through fear of being met with failure.