Tarot has been a part of Barbara Moore's personal and professional lives for nearly twenty years. Right from the start, tarot intrigued her with its marvelous blending of mythology, psychology, art, history, mystery, and magic. She has studied under...
The Eight of Swords is the feeling of being in a position that is dangerous on several levels. First, it feels as if any move we make leads to a problem or roadblock of some sort, or even makes the situation worse. There appear to be no viable options. Second, we feel inhibited and blind. We cannot move with our normal nimbleness, nor can we see the whole situation. A bad situation is made worse by the feeling of helplessness.
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The Universal Waite image is so static that it almost feels serene. Is she calmly reviewing possible plans to escape, or is she resigned to her fate? She seems to be in no immediate danger, although she is unable to make any progress. The focus of this card is not as much on danger as it is on feeling immobilized.
Core meaning: A precarious situation.
The Legacy card shows more movement. The woman seems to be struggling in a web. Her every movement brings the swords closer. Although her arms are not bound, she is blindfolded. Also, she is nearly naked, indicating vulnerability. This card shows a more immediately dangerous and difficult situation.
The Shadowscapes card echoes the danger and helplessness depicted in the Legacy card. The more the swan flails about, the more entangled he becomes. The small hummingbird provides a hint of hope and perhaps even rescue.
