The Telling

Here's a fun but powerful way of getting to know the tarot with like-minded friends. We like to call it 'a telling'.

Sit round a table, light some candles, shuffle the deck and then, in turn, draw a card and simply start telling a story about it, whatever comes to mind.

The Nine of Coins from the English Magic Tarot

You may feel awkward and stilted at first, but persevere. When you’ve said enough, let the others add what they see.

A 'telling' with the English Magic Tarot

Gradually you’ll all slip into a storytelling headspace and the cards will start 'speaking' to you. You can do as many rounds as you like, adding new frames to your story, building up your very own mini graphic novel.

Rex Van Ryn (centre) and Andy Letcher (right) at a 'telling' using the English Magic Tarot

But be warned, like any good game it can be quite addictive, so be prepared for tellings to go on late into the night.