For Your Third Eye Only: The Story Behind the James Bond Tarot Deck (1973)

When James Bond faced off against villains in 1973's Live and Let Die, something new was introduced to the super-spy's world: tarot cards. These weren't just any cards; they were specially created for the movie by artist Fergus Hall. What started as a unique prop for a supernatural twist in a Bond film eventually became a popular tarot deck used by many around the world.

Fergus Hall: The Artist Behind the Magic

Fergus Hall, a Scottish artist, was known for his dreamlike and colorful paintings. He grew up around theater, which likely influenced his dramatic artistic style. Before creating the tarot deck, he was a painter and art teacher. His art was often described as surreal, with "freaky bizarro" characters and bold colors, much like what you'd see in an art gallery. He painted the tarot cards using oils on canvas, which gave them their rich, deep colors

Hall's approach to the tarot deck was unique. He wanted to avoid the usual spooky or "occult" imagery often associated with tarot cards, which suited the Live and Let Die producers' wishes. Even so, his cards are full of hidden symbols, like black birds and orange cats. He also used the traditional tarot suits of cups, swords, batons, and coins. While the simpler cards (called "pip cards") have minimal art, the main cards (Major Arcana) are full of his strange and captivating designs. Some find his cards a bit unsettling, but others see them as deeply insightful, perfect for dream interpretation. This mix of traditional structure and surreal art made his deck stand out and appeal to a wide range of people.

Live & Let Divine: How the Cards Made It to the Big Screen

The idea of using tarot cards in Live and Let Die was a big step for the James Bond series, as it was the first time a supernatural theme was central to the plot. The filmmakers wanted a fresh, artistic look for the cards, avoiding typical stereotypes.

Interestingly, the famous surrealist artist Salvador Dalí was first approached to create the deck. However, Dalí's price tag, reportedly over $7 million (more than the entire movie's budget!), led the producers to look elsewhere. That's when Fergus Hall was chosen instead. This decision was purely practical and saved a lot of money, but it accidentally led to the creation of a truly iconic tarot deck. Hall's distinct style, described as "idiosyncratic" and "naive," turned out to be a perfect fit, helping the film avoid the common "occult stereotypes."

Because of the tight deadlines in filmmaking, Hall could only complete 27 unique paintings for the movie. To help with a key plot point where Bond tricks the character Solitaire, 10 duplicate "The Lovers" cards were made. So, the film used a total of 37 cards. On screen, these cards had a distinctive red background with the 007 logo, a subtle nod to the Bond brand. James Bond uses a deck stacked with "The Lovers" cards to make Solitaire believe it's their destiny to be together, leading to her losing her psychic powers.

The cards seen in the movie and the ones later sold to the public had some key differences: the film's prop deck, used specifically for Live and Let Die, contained only 27 unique paintings (with 10 extra "The Lovers" cards for a total of 37), featured its original artwork, and had a red back with the "007" emblem. In contrast, the commercial "Tarot of the Witches" deck is a full 78-card set, has significantly revised artwork that was produced after filming, and features a blue patterned back without the "007" logo, making it suitable for general tarot practice and available since 1973.

"The Tarot of the Witches": A Lasting Legacy

After the film's success, U.S. Games Systems, Inc. quickly released a full 78-card deck, taking advantage of the movie's popularity. This commercial deck, initially inspired by the film, was later rebranded as "The Tarot of the Witches." It has been continuously available since 1973 and remains a "classic deck" among tarot users.

The deck's association with a major film like James Bond significantly boosted its popularity. The strategic timing of its release ensured it reached a wide audience, turning a movie prop into a widely used product. While the name "Tarot of the Witches" may not perfectly reflect Hall's original artistic vision (as he wanted to avoid typical occult themes), it appealed to a broader interest in mystical practices.

Despite some mixed reviews (some called it "ugly," others "profound"), its colorful, surreal design and psychological depth have made it a favorite for many. Many users feel the deck should simply be called the "Fergus Hall Tarot" because its unique art truly represents his vision, rather than being solely tied to Bond or witches.

Today, the deck is considered an "iconic piece of Bond history" and a must-have for fans. Its connection to the movie has enhanced its appeal, making it a recognizable and cherished item in both cinematic and tarot communities.

Conclusion: A Deck with a Double Life

The Fergus Hall tarot deck, famously known as "The Tarot of the Witches," beautifully shows how art, movies, and popular culture can come together in unexpected ways. It started as a practical solution for a James Bond film, where Hall's unique, surreal art brought a fresh, mystical feel to the screen.

But its journey didn't stop there. Thanks to U.S. Games Systems, the deck found a new life as a successful and popular tool for divination. Its release shortly after the film cleverly used the movie's fame to introduce this artistic creation to a much wider audience.

Even with discussions about its name and different opinions on its look, the deck's vibrant, dreamlike images and subtle meanings have connected with many tarot readers and art lovers over the years. The ongoing conversation about its branding versus its artistic core highlights the complex relationship between an artist's original idea and how it's presented commercially. It's a deck that defies easy labels, combining traditional tarot structure with a truly individual artistic voice. The story of the Fergus Hall tarot deck is a rich example of artistic integrity meeting commercial opportunity, proving that some creations leave a lasting mark on both film history and the mystical world of tarot.

Carolina Dean 
Two Headed Tarot 

Links

• Solitaire Predicts Bond's Arrival (Youtube) 
• Tarot of the Witches Prop Replica 

Chart Reading: Rowan Mayfair (The Witching Hour, Ann Rice)

Note: Rowan Mayfair's birth data comes directly from the The Witching Hour (1990), written by Ann Rice.

This professional natal chart report offers an insightful exploration of Rowan Mayfair's unique astrological blueprint, illuminating her inherent strengths, challenges, and life purpose. Based on the precise celestial positions at her moment of birth, this analysis provides a comprehensive understanding of her psychological makeup and potential life path.

The Ascendant: Your Persona and First Impressions

Rowan's Ascendant in Libra in the 1st House reveals her natural demeanor and how she presents herself to the world. With Libra rising, she is likely perceived as graceful, charming, diplomatic, and aesthetically inclined. She possesses an innate desire for balance, harmony, and fairness in all interactions. Her approach to life is often characterized by a need for partnership and a thoughtful consideration of others' perspectives. She may strive to create peace and avoid conflict, sometimes to the point of indecision or people-pleasing. Her physical appearance might reflect classic beauty, symmetry, and a refined sense of style.

The Chart Ruler: Venus in Virgo in the 12th House

The ruler of Rowan's Ascendant is Venus, positioned in Virgo in the 12th House. This placement significantly colors her Libra rising qualities. Venus in Virgo suggests a refined, discerning, and analytical approach to love, beauty, and relationships. She seeks perfection and purity in her connections, often expressing affection through acts of service and practical support. There's a humble and modest quality to her charm.

However, Venus's placement in the 12th House adds layers of complexity and depth. The 12th House is associated with the subconscious, hidden realms, spirituality, solitude, and self-undoing. This suggests that Rowan's innate Venusian qualities—her charm, her desire for harmony, and her capacity for love—may operate behind the scenes or be expressed in less overt ways. She might be drawn to secret relationships, or she may find her deepest connections through spiritual or charitable endeavors. There could be a tendency to sacrifice her own needs in relationships, or to attract partners who require healing or who are somehow elusive. Her aesthetic sensibilities might lean towards the subtle, the ethereal, or the deeply symbolic. She may find beauty in solitude, meditation, or through creative pursuits that tap into her subconscious. This placement can also indicate a hidden artistic talent or a deep, compassionate nature that she doesn't always reveal.

Planetary Placements and Aspects

Sun in Scorpio in the 2nd House

Rowan's Sun in Scorpio in the 2nd House indicates a core identity deeply rooted in intensity, passion, and a profound need for security and self-worth. Scorpio Sun individuals are known for their penetrating insight, emotional depth, and unwavering determination. She possesses a powerful will and an ability to delve beneath the surface of things. In the 2nd House, which governs personal resources, values, and self-worth, this Scorpio energy manifests as a strong drive to accumulate and control resources, not just for material gain, but for emotional and psychological security. She values what is authentic and real, and may be drawn to professions that involve investigation, transformation, or managing significant assets. There's a powerful magnetism to her, and she is likely very private about her true feelings and possessions.

• Sun Conjunct Mars: This tight conjunction amplifies Rowan's assertive and action-oriented nature. Her will (Sun) and drive (Mars) are powerfully aligned, making her incredibly determined and courageous. She approaches life with vigor and can be quite competitive. This aspect can also indicate a strong physical constitution and a direct, sometimes blunt, manner of expression. She is not afraid to fight for what she believes in, especially concerning her values and resources.

• Sun Conjunct Neptune: This conjunction, while a bit wider, still suggests a significant influence. Rowan's ego and sense of self (Sun) are deeply intertwined with her spiritual and imaginative capacities (Neptune). She may possess a strong intuition, empathy, and a compassionate nature. There can be a tendency towards idealism, artistic expression, or even a degree of self-sacrifice. However, it can also lead to confusion about her identity, a susceptibility to illusion, or a need to escape harsh realities. She may have a mystical quality about her.

Moon in Sagittarius in the 3rd House

Rowan's Moon in Sagittarius in the 3rd House reveals her emotional nature, instinctive reactions, and sense of comfort. With the Moon in Sagittarius, she finds emotional security through freedom, exploration, and a broad understanding of the world. She is optimistic, adventurous, and craves new experiences. Her emotions are generally expansive and philosophical. In the 3rd House, which relates to communication, siblings, short journeys, and early education, her Sagittarian Moon suggests a need to express her feelings openly and honestly, often with enthusiasm and a desire to share her beliefs. She likely enjoys learning, traveling, and engaging in lively discussions. Her communication style is direct, philosophical, and sometimes blunt, but always with a good-hearted intention. She may have a strong bond with siblings or neighbors, and her early environment might have encouraged exploration and intellectual curiosity.

• Moon Conjunct Jupiter: This powerful conjunction blesses Rowan with an inherently optimistic and benevolent emotional nature. Her feelings (Moon) are amplified by Jupiter's expansive and fortunate influence. She is naturally generous, compassionate, and possesses a strong sense of faith. This aspect enhances her ability to connect with others on an emotional level, fostering popularity and good fortune. She finds comfort in growth, learning, and sharing her wisdom. This reinforces her love for travel and broad experiences, and her communication is likely inspiring and uplifting.

Mercury in Aquarius in the 5th House

Rowan's Mercury in Aquarius in the 5th House indicates her intellectual style, communication patterns, and how she processes information. Mercury in Aquarius suggests an independent, innovative, and objective mind. She thinks unconventionally, valuing logic and humanitarian ideals. She is likely progressive in her ideas and enjoys intellectual stimulation. In the 5th House, which governs creativity, self-expression, romance, children, and speculation, this Aquarian Mercury manifests as a desire to express herself in unique and original ways. She may have a talent for creative writing, inventiveness, or engaging in hobbies that involve intellectual puzzles. Her approach to romance is likely unconventional, valuing friendship and intellectual connection over traditional displays of affection. She may be an advocate for children or find innovative ways to teach and interact with them. She enjoys group activities that stimulate her mind and allow her to share her unique perspectives.

Venus in Virgo in the 12th House

(As discussed under Chart Ruler, but reiterating for context with aspects) Rowan's Venus in Virgo in the 12th House signifies her approach to love, beauty, and values. She is discerning, modest, and seeks perfection in relationships, often expressing love through service. In the 12th House, these qualities are often expressed subtly, through hidden channels, or in connection with spiritual or compassionate endeavors. She may find beauty in solitude and service, or her relationships may carry a karmic or sacrificial element.

• Venus Square Saturn: This challenging aspect suggests a tension between Rowan's desire for harmony and connection (Venus) and her need for structure, responsibility, and sometimes restriction (Saturn). She may experience delays or difficulties in relationships, or feel a sense of inadequacy in expressing affection. There can be a fear of commitment or a tendency to be overly critical of herself or others in romantic contexts. This aspect, particularly with Saturn in the 4th house (home/roots), can indicate early experiences that shaped her views on love and security, perhaps leading to a cautious approach. Overcoming this involves learning patience, self-acceptance, and building solid foundations in her relationships.

Mars in Scorpio in the 2nd House

Rowan's Mars in Scorpio in the 2nd House indicates her drive, assertion, and how she pursues her desires. Mars in Scorpio is incredibly potent, endowing her with immense willpower, strategic thinking, and a fierce determination. She is passionate, intense, and possesses a strong survival instinct. In the 2nd House, this energy is directed towards acquiring and protecting her resources and values. She is highly motivated to achieve financial and material security, and she will fight fiercely to defend what she considers hers. She may be adept at managing money, investments, or uncovering hidden assets. There's a powerful, almost primal, drive to secure her self-worth.

• Mars Sextile Pluto: This harmonious aspect provides Rowan with immense power and regenerative capacity in her actions. Her drive (Mars) is supported by Pluto's transformative energy. She has an innate ability to overcome obstacles, to delve into deep mysteries, and to instigate profound change. This aspect enhances her strategic thinking and her capacity to wield power effectively, especially in matters related to her resources and values. She can be incredibly effective in bringing about necessary transformations.

Jupiter in Sagittarius in the 3rd House

Rowan's Jupiter in Sagittarius in the 3rd House signifies where she experiences growth, expansion, and good fortune. Jupiter in Sagittarius is in its domicile, meaning it's exceptionally strong and comfortable here. This grants her a natural optimism, a love for truth, and a broad, philosophical outlook on life. She is inherently lucky and generous. In the 3rd House, this expansive energy blesses her communication, learning, and immediate environment. She is a natural teacher or storyteller, with a gift for inspiring others through her words. She enjoys higher education, foreign cultures, and sharing her wisdom. Her relationships with siblings and neighbors are likely positive and mutually beneficial. She finds opportunities for growth through travel, writing, and intellectual pursuits.

Saturn in Capricorn in the 4th House

Rowan's Saturn in Capricorn in the 4th House indicates where she faces responsibilities, learns discipline, and builds foundations. Saturn in Capricorn is also in its domicile, making it a powerful and structured influence. This suggests a strong sense of duty, ambition, and a practical approach to life. She is patient, disciplined, and capable of achieving long-term goals. In the 4th House, which governs home, family roots, security, and the psychological foundations, this Saturn placement indicates a serious and responsible approach to her domestic life and family. She may have experienced early family responsibilities or a strict upbringing. There's a need to build a secure and stable home environment, and she may be the anchor or authority figure within her family. This placement suggests a strong connection to her heritage and a desire to create a lasting legacy. She may feel the weight of family expectations or have to overcome early limitations related to her roots.

Uranus in Leo in the 11th House

Rowan's Uranus in Leo in the 11th House signifies where she expresses her individuality, innovation, and desire for freedom. Uranus in Leo suggests a unique and dramatic approach to self-expression and creativity. She seeks to stand out and bring originality to her endeavors. In the 11th House, which governs friendships, groups, hopes, and wishes, this Uranus placement indicates that Rowan is drawn to unconventional friendships and groups that align with her humanitarian or progressive ideals. She is likely a trendsetter within her social circles, valuing freedom and individuality in her friendships. She may have sudden changes in her social life or attract eccentric friends. Her hopes and dreams are often visionary and aimed at collective betterment. She thrives in environments where she can contribute her unique talents to a larger cause.

Neptune in Scorpio in the 2nd House

Rowan's Neptune in Scorpio in the 2nd House indicates where she experiences idealism, spirituality, and sometimes confusion or disillusionment. Neptune in Scorpio suggests a deep, intuitive connection to the hidden aspects of life, a fascination with mystery, and a profound capacity for empathy and psychic awareness. In the 2nd House, this placement suggests that her values and sense of self-worth are deeply influenced by spiritual or intangible forces. She may have an idealistic approach to money and possessions, or her financial resources might fluctuate due to unforeseen circumstances. There's a potential for confusion or deception regarding her finances, or she may be drawn to charitable giving. She might find her true value in spiritual rather than material wealth.

Pluto in Virgo in the 12th House

Rowan's Pluto in Virgo in the 12th House signifies where she experiences profound transformation, power dynamics, and regeneration. Pluto in Virgo suggests a deep-seated need to analyze, perfect, and purify, often leading to intense self-scrutiny and a desire for meticulous control. In the 12th House, this transformative energy operates in the realms of the subconscious, hidden patterns, and karmic lessons. Rowan may experience profound psychological transformations through periods of solitude, spiritual exploration, or by confronting hidden fears and past traumas. She possesses an innate ability to uncover secrets and to heal deep-seated wounds, both her own and others'. There can be a powerful, almost obsessive, drive to perfect herself or to serve others in a deeply transformative way. She may encounter hidden power dynamics or need to surrender control to higher forces.

Chiron: The Wound and the Healing Path

Rowan's Chiron in Aquarius in the 5th House points to a core wound related to her individuality, creativity, and self-expression. Chiron in Aquarius suggests a wound connected to feeling different, an outsider, or misunderstood within groups. She may have experienced rejection for her unique ideas or felt that her unconventional nature was not accepted. This can manifest as a fear of being truly authentic or a tendency to suppress her eccentricities to fit in.

In the 5th House, this wound is specifically tied to her creative expression, romantic life, and relationship with children. Rowan may feel a deep insecurity about her creative abilities, fearing that her unique talents are not good enough or will be criticized. She might struggle with self-expression, particularly in areas where she wants to shine and be recognized. In romance, she might attract partners who highlight her feelings of being an outsider or who challenge her need for intellectual freedom. There could be a wound related to her own inner child or her capacity to nurture children, perhaps feeling inadequate or unconventional in these roles.

Overcoming the Wound: Rowan's healing path involves embracing her uniqueness and finding her tribe. She needs to understand that her unconventional ideas and creative expressions are her greatest strengths, not weaknesses. The wound can be healed by:

• Authentic Self-Expression: Courageously expressing her unique creative talents, even if they are unconventional. This could involve innovative art, writing, or any form of expression that allows her true self to emerge.

• Finding Like-Minded Communities: Seeking out groups and friendships where her individuality is celebrated and where she feels truly accepted for who she is. She can become a powerful healer for others who feel marginalized or different.

• Embracing Her Inner Child: Addressing any past hurts related to feeling unaccepted in her childhood or in her early attempts at self-expression. This may involve playful activities, creative exploration, and nurturing her own sense of wonder.

• Advocacy: Using her unique perspective to advocate for humanitarian causes or for those who are marginalized. By helping others find their voice and place, she simultaneously heals her own wound of feeling like an outsider.

True Node: Your Life's Purpose

Rowan's True Node (North Node) in Libra in the 1st House points to her evolutionary path and ultimate life purpose. The North Node represents the qualities and experiences we are meant to develop in this lifetime, moving away from the comfort zone of the South Node (which would be in Aries in the 7th House).

With the North Node in Libra, Rowan's purpose is to cultivate balance, diplomacy, partnership, and a strong sense of justice. She is meant to learn the art of compromise, collaboration, and creating harmony in her relationships and environment. This involves moving away from an overly independent, self-focused, or confrontational approach (Aries South Node).

In the 1st House, this purpose is deeply personal and relates to her identity and how she presents herself. Rowan's life purpose involves embodying the qualities of Libra in her very being. She is meant to learn to define herself not just as an individual, but in relation to others, through equitable partnerships and a commitment to fairness. Her journey involves developing her diplomatic skills, becoming a peacemaker, and learning to weigh all sides of an issue before acting. She is here to learn to initiate relationships and to stand up for what is right in a balanced and harmonious way. Her purpose is to become a beacon of grace, fairness, and partnership, demonstrating how to achieve personal identity through conscious, balanced interaction with the world. This will involve learning to assert her needs within relationships while always seeking mutual understanding and harmony.

This report offers a foundational understanding of Rowan Mayfair's natal chart. Further exploration of specific house cusps, planetary dignities, and progressions can provide even deeper insights into her unique journey.

Carolina Dean 
Astrologer to Fictional Witches 

From Counterculture to Coffee Tables: The Unlikely Journey of Linda Goodman's Sun Signs

In the late 1960s, when people were looking for new spiritual ideas, a book called Linda Goodman's Sun Signs came out in 1968 and completely changed how people saw astrology. It wasn't just a book; it was a huge deal that brought astrology from a niche interest to something everyone talked about.

Before Goodman, astrology was mostly found in hard-to-understand newspaper sections or specialized books. But Sun Signs broke through that. Goodman used a mix of humor, poetic language, and smart observations to describe the twelve zodiac signs. She made them seem like real, relatable personalities, not just symbols in the sky. Her descriptions were so vivid and often accurate that readers felt truly understood. We've all met a "moody, secretive" Cancer or a "charming, indecisive" Libra, right?

The book's success was immediate and massive. Sun Signs sold millions of copies and stayed on the New York Times bestseller list for a long time. Its impact went beyond just sales; it changed culture. Suddenly, talking about "my sign" became common at parties, work, and even in classrooms. People started to understand their friends, family, and themselves through these astrological types. Debates about why a Virgo was so picky or a Leo so dramatic became a new way to chat with people.

Goodman's writing style was a big reason for the book's popularity. She didn't use complicated, technical terms. Instead, she used colorful language that sometimes felt magical, but always connected to real human experiences. Her often romantic and empathetic descriptions of each sign gave them a sense of purpose and individuality. It wasn't just about predicting the future; it was about understanding who you are, what you need emotionally, and what challenges you might face. She made astrology feel personal and meaningful, not just about predictions.

Sun Signs also came out when many people were interested in learning more about themselves and growing as individuals. During a time of big social changes, people were searching for meaning and identity. Goodman's astrology offered a way to understand one's basic nature and how it fit into the world. It made people feel like they belonged to a bigger cosmic plan, even if they had never believed in such things before.

The book's influence spread far beyond individual readers. It helped create a whole industry around popular astrology. More horoscope columns appeared in newspapers and magazines, often using Goodman's easy-to-understand and engaging style. Other authors tried to copy her success, and the market for astrology books, products, and services boomed. Astrology became a legitimate part of pop culture, discussed on TV shows and mentioned in movies and music.

Of course, Sun Signs had its critics. Skeptics called it pseudoscience, and some traditional astrologers felt her interpretations were too simple or overly romantic. But even these criticisms showed how much the book had impacted culture. It started conversations about astrology, moving it from the fringes to something widely discussed and fascinating.

Decades later, Linda Goodman's Sun Signs is still important. While astrology has moved on to focus more on personalized birth charts and deeper meanings, our basic understanding of sun signs as relatable personality types owes a lot to Goodman. Her book continues to be an entry point for countless people into the world of astrology. It shows how powerful her book was in helping us understand ourselves and feel connected to something bigger. Linda Goodman didn't just write a book; she started a cultural shift that changed how we see ourselves and the stars.

Carolina Dean

Nitpicky Virgo 

Links 

Buy Linda Goodman's Sun Signs from 12th House Books

Linda Goodman, Obituary

Linda Goodman (Wikipedia) 

The Lasting Impact of "Psycho-Cybernetics" by Maxwell Maltz

Among the many self-help books out there, Maxwell Maltz's "Psycho-Cybernetics" truly stands out. Published in 1960, this revolutionary book introduced big ideas about how our minds work, combining psychology with the science of control systems (cybernetics). It offered a practical way to change your life for the better. Even today, its lessons are incredibly useful, making it a must-read for anyone wanting to improve their life.

What "Psycho-Cybernetics" is All About

The main idea of "Psycho-Cybernetics" is that your self-image acts like a built-in guidance system. It's constantly trying to match your actions and results with how you see yourself. Think of it like a torpedo aiming for a target; your subconscious mind always tries to keep things consistent with your internal picture. If you see yourself as not good enough, your actions will likely reflect that belief. But if you build a positive and powerful self-image, there's almost no limit to what you can achieve.

Maltz, who was a plastic surgeon, noticed something interesting: even after successful surgeries, many of his patients still felt inadequate or saw flaws in themselves. This led him to realize that real change doesn't start from the outside, but from how you see yourself internally. He explains how our self-image is shaped by past experiences, beliefs, and how we interpret things, and how this internal blueprint shapes our reality.

The book gives you hands-on ways to "reprogram" this internal system. Maltz talks about "The Creative Mechanism," highlighting how powerful your imagination and visualization can be in influencing your subconscious mind to get what you want. He stresses the importance of setting clear goals, mentally practicing what you want to achieve, developing a "success mechanism," and getting rid of negative self-talk and limiting beliefs – what he calls "scar tissue" on your personality.

Why "Psycho-Cybernetics" Is So Important

"Psycho-Cybernetics" was a pioneer in showing the strong link between your mind and your ability to succeed. Its importance comes from a few key areas:

• It Started the Self-Image Movement: Maltz was one of the first to clearly explain how vital your self-image is for personal success and happiness. His work laid the groundwork for many later ideas in positive psychology and building self-esteem.

• It Connected Psychology with Science: By using ideas from cybernetics (how living things and machines control and communicate) to understand human behavior, Maltz gave a scientific reason for self-improvement, going beyond simple feel-good advice.

• It Offers Practical, Hands-On Advice: Unlike some theoretical books, "Psycho-Cybernetics" is full of exercises and methods you can use right away. It's not just about understanding; it's about doing.

• Its Ideas Are Still Relevant Today: The core principles of self-image, setting goals, and mental practice are still key to success in many areas, from sports psychology to business leadership.

Why You Should Get a Copy of This Book

In a world full of quick fixes and passing fads, "Psycho-Cybernetics" remains a timeless guide for real, lasting personal growth. Here's why you should consider adding it to your bookshelf:

• To Overcome What Holds You Back: If you often find yourself undermining your own efforts or feeling stuck, this book gives you the tools to find and break free from those self-imposed limits.

• To Reach Your Goals More Easily: Whether your ambitions are in your career, relationships, health, or personal growth, "Psycho-Cybernetics" offers a powerful way to make steady progress and achieve what you set out to do.

• To Build Solid Self-Confidence: By understanding how your self-image works, you can actively change it to one of confidence, capability, and strength, leading to a more satisfying and empowered life.

• To Understand How Powerful Your Mind Is: Maltz's insights show you the incredible potential of the human mind and give you a clear path to use that power in positive ways, turning challenges into chances.

• To Get a Core Understanding of Self-Improvement: Many current self-help authors build on ideas first introduced by Maltz. Reading "Psycho-Cybernetics" will give you a fundamental understanding that will help you appreciate other books in this field even more.

"Psycho-Cybernetics" is more than just a book; it's a guide to mastering yourself. It offers a deep and practical way to unlock the natural "success mechanism" inside all of us. If you're ready to move past your perceived limitations and step into a life with more achievement and satisfaction, then buying this important book will be one of the best decisions you'll ever make.

Carolina Dean 
Success Consultant 

The Thoth Tarot: A Look Back at Crowley and Harris's Iconic Deck

The Thoth Tarot isn't just any deck of cards; it's a profound work by two fascinating individuals: the well-known occultist Aleister Crowley and the talented artist Lady Frieda Harris. This deck is special because it brings together many different spiritual ideas like Kabbalah, astrology, and ancient Egyptian beliefs, all in a visually stunning way.

The project began in 1938 when Crowley, then in his late 60s, decided he wanted to create an updated tarot deck that fit his own spiritual system called Thelema. He found an incredible partner in Lady Frieda Harris, an artist who, despite being new to these mystical topics, threw herself into the work with dedication.

What started as a plan for a quick six-month project stretched into five intense years of collaboration. Crowley provided incredibly detailed instructions for each of the 78 cards—everything from the symbolism to the exact colors to use. Harris then took these complex ideas and turned them into breathtaking artwork, often painting several versions of a single card until Crowley was satisfied. Her art is known for its dreamlike quality, bright colors, and intricate patterns that perfectly captured the deep spiritual energies Crowley wanted to express. You can still find the original watercolor paintings at the Warburg Institute today, showing just how important they are artistically and historically.

Crowley made some big changes to the traditional tarot. For instance, he renamed several major cards; "Strength" became "Lust," and "Judgment" became "The Aeon," reflecting his belief in a new spiritual era. He also added specific astrological and Kabbalistic meanings to the minor cards, making the whole system very connected and detailed for fortune-telling and meditation.

Even though the artwork was finished by 1943 and Crowley's book, The Book of Thoth, came out in a limited edition in 1944, neither Crowley nor Harris lived to see the deck widely available. Crowley passed away in 1947, and Harris in 1962. It wasn't until the late 1960s that the Thoth Tarot started to become more common. Early printings, however, sometimes had color issues or even mistakes because the artwork was so complex.

The Copyright Hiccup: When the Deck Disappeared (Briefly)

Getting the Thoth Tarot out to the world wasn't always smooth sailing. There was a time when the deck was hard to find because of copyright disagreements. While the copyright for the original artwork eventually expired and became public domain, the rights to specific reproductions and improved versions made by different publishers became a legal issue. This meant that, at times, certain editions or even the entire deck would be difficult to buy. These legal battles, frustrating for fans, actually highlighted how popular and valuable the deck had become in the world of occult practices. Eventually, companies like U.S. Games Systems and A.G. Müller released their own versions, each trying their best to accurately reproduce Harris's original vision using better printing methods.

Today, the Thoth Tarot remains one of the most studied and respected decks globally. Its deep symbolism and philosophical ideas continue to challenge and inspire those interested in spiritual knowledge, while its striking looks appeal to artists and practitioners alike. The teamwork between Aleister Crowley and Lady Frieda Harris is a remarkable achievement in the history of occult art, showing their combined genius and dedication to creating a complete system for understanding spirituality.

Carolina Dean 
Tarot Reader to the Stars! 

Links:

• Vintage Thoth Tarot Deck (12th House Books) 
• Thoth Tarot (Aeclectic Tarot)