| The Celtic Cross spread is one of the most popular Tarot spreads, providing varied insight into many aspects of a complex situation and your role in it. The William Blake Tarot explores the mystical vision and artistry of the renowned English painter and poet. Through rich interpretations focused on creative undertakings, it has long been the deck of choice for artists, writers, musicians, and thinkers. For more information about this deck, or to buy your own personal copy, go to www.blaketarot.com.
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 | The card not shown but at the center of the cross, represents the atmosphere surrounding the central issue. Man of Poetry, when reversed: Lack of tact and polish. Revealing truth without regard for personal consequences. Being driven by your ego to assert how things will be done. Rigidity and refusal to see alternate viewpoints. In the creative process: When you see the whole picture of your project, you can take charge to boldly direct it toward achieving its divine potential. |
 | The card visible at the center of the cross represents the obstacle that stands in your way - it may even be something that sounds good but is not actually to your benefit. Six of Painting (Assistance), when reversed: Reliance on favors or tangible help of some kind. Restrictive influences from sponsorship or patronage. A negative influence in the situation. Being "kept". The illusion of generosity. Charity with strings attached. Taking advantage of those in need. In the creative process: You can attract the assistance and tools you need by using your imagination and not giving up hope. |
 | The card at the top of the cross represents your goal, or the best you can achieve without a dramatic change of priorities. Union: The successful coming-together of something vitally important to you. Getting your act together at last. The joining of male and female forces, or unification or inner and outer life. Not holding anything back. Being at the center. Completion. Spiritual self-sacrifice. |
 | The card at the bottom of the cross represents the foundation on which the situation is based. Child of Science: Searching for truth or knowledge. Figuring out a plan or stratagem. Questioning everything. Looking inside yourself for deeper information. Building on a classical or time-tested approach. A time for research and information-gathering. Skillful use of tools and technology. Curiosity. In the creative process: Doing feasibility studies or reorganizing your approach is favored now. Be curious and question everything. |
 | The card at the left of the cross represents a passing influence or something to be released. Four of Painting (Means): Material prosperity and contentment. Creative achievements using material resources. Consolidation of personnel and materials. Bringing about order and structure. Emphasis on controlling, dominating, or monopolizing. Protecting and maintaining. In the creative process: Before reaching out for creative inspiration, prepare the groundwork: by appropriately allocating your resources and assigning creative tasks. |
 | The card at the right of the cross represents an approaching influence or something to be embraced. Ace of Painting (Generation), when reversed: A stark creative block. Undue reliance on old forms. Being bound by your initial plan. A stall in new projects and works. An opening that goes unnoticed. Failure to connect with elements of sensuality and sexuality. In the creative process: This is when you tap into the elemental and generative forces of life, using your inner vision to create new and exciting forms with which to work. |
 | The card at the base of the staff represents your role or attitude. Child of Poetry, when reversed: Lack of artistic discipline. Refusal to introspect or learn from the mistakes of others. Taking unnecessary risks. Bending over backwards in your effort to see the appropriate direction for self-development and creativity. In the creative process: An inspirational breakthrough is at your feet; it is up to your to pick up the energy and make the most of it. |
 | The card second from the bottom of the staff represents your environment and the people you are interacting with. Nature, when reversed: Overgrowth. Natural forces out of control. Fear of nature and sexuality. Mothering issues. Seduced by the illusions of materialism. |
 | The card second from the top of the staff represents your hopes, fears, or an unexpected element that will come into play. Stars: Renewal of hope. Feeling connected with cosmic or universal energies. As Above, So Below. Opening your eyes to the highest potential of your situation. Getting in touch with your own creative powers. Self-esteem. Far-reaching effects. Receiving recognition for your abilities. Doing your own thing, no matter what. |
 | The card at the top of the staff represents the ultimate outcome should you continue on this course. Angel of Science: "Quis basin demonstret? (Who would demonstrate the foundation?)". Floating in the realm of pure or abstract thought. Objective, unemotional, and unbiased thinking. Mental speculation, exploration, meditation. A brilliant insight bursting through. Stimulus to organize or systematize. Precision and clarity of vision. In the creative process: An intellectual vision or perfect insight inspires you to rise above yourself. |
