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
Queen of Hearts![]() |
7 of Hearts![]() |
3 of Spades![]() |
Queen of Clubs![]() |
4 of Clubs![]() |
The World![]() |
The Devil![]() |
The Magician![]() |
10 of Clubs![]() |
Card 1: 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 2: 7 of Hearts
The appearance of options or choices but with no indication which may be preferable at the time. Presence of something potentially positive or uplifting, which if ignored may pass by with an opportunity thus being missed. Emotions becoming more linear whereby objectivity is being restored. The feeling of 'running on empty' for a while but with the indication the end of this negative state is within sight.
Card 3: 3 of Spades
Loss of faith or believe, a pessimistic outlook in general. Internalising of negative emotions. A numbing of the soul or spirit to the extent we also become numbed to the pain or hurt that comes from external sources. The need to use insight to identify the real cause of pain or upset, as opposed to misperceived sources. The urge to cut within in order to release harmful or negative emotions.
Card 4: Queen of Clubs
The personality or character trait of following through with an objective, despite the attempts of others to thwart progress. The ability to just 'know' their role in life, which is followed through regardless of any question of ethics or morals raised by those who are ignorant or less knowledgeable. This could indicate a person who will lead by example and will be able to back up the 'talk' with the 'walk'. Alternatively, there could be a requirement for you to utilise this character trait.
Card 5: 4 of Clubs
Co-operation with others to achieve a common goal. Utilising of individual skills to the benefit of the team as a whole. Acknowledgement of our own personal limitations and knowing when we need to call on the help of others. The willingness to muck in as opposed to acting as a passive observer.
Card 6: The World
From the Fool, we have come a full circle. What is there left to do but start over?
With a song in her heart and a prayer upon her lips, she steps out of the abyss into the World.
Card 7: The Devil
The Devil is a whisper that comes from the depths of our heart; for what is temptation but a weakness most exploited by our desire.
As the seeker, The Devil suggests an attachment that has become unhealthy; therefore, we may need to explore what it is we have bound ourselves to and what that object of our desire represents to us before we are able to free ourselves from it.
As a situation, The Devil card advices us to be aware of becoming too involved; to the extent we are unable to perceive the situation clearly. As such, we may need to ask ourselves if decisions made are based on instant gratification or out of necessity.
Card 8: The Magician
The Magician card indicates an initiation; it is a beginning in the process of creation. The tools are laid out; The Magician is not lacking in skill but in experience thus, the method used may be questionable. It is a stage of self-mastery and success will depend on how The Magician utilises both skill and tools laid out before him.
In a situation, The Magician card suggests a stage of active involvement and the need to evaluate options before making decisions.
Card 9: 10 of Clubs
Shedding of a load or burden. Letting go of a part of your life that has now run its course and is no longer of relevance. Reflecting on what has perhaps been challenging and assessing how that challenge is now paving the way for the next step or stage of your journey.