Book I'm Listening To- The Illustrated Key to the Tarot (by A.E. Waite)

The Illustrated Key to the Tarot (by A.E. Waite) is such a foundational read. It’s literally the philosophy behind the Rider–Waite–Smith deck — 

 Listening to it now gives you a deep symbolic grounding. -just listen for imagery and feeling — how each card’s energy feels to you.

TWO TYPES

Major Arcana: described as stages of the soul’s journey — from innocence (The Fool) to enlightenment (The World).

Minor Arcana: reflections of daily human experiences.

Esoteric notes: Waite ties tarot to Kabbalah, alchemy, and Hermetic wisdom. Don’t get lost in the details — let those parts wash over you for now.

2. Keep a Tarot Journal While You Listen

Each time a card is mentioned:

Pause the audiobook.

Jot down what image or emotion comes up for you before you hear the traditional meaning.
Example:

“The Star — feels like relief, hope, night sky, flow.”

Then check Waite’s interpretation — compare it to yours. This helps your intuitive muscle grow while grounding it in classical symbolism.

3. Blend Study With Practice

While listening to the book, also start doing one-card pulls daily.
Ask simple reflective questions like:

“What lesson am I meant to understand today?”

“What energy do I need to embody right now?”

Then, write a few lines about how that card connects with what you heard in the audiobook.

4. Anchor Your Energy Before Reading Tarot

Before each reading or journaling session:

Breathe deeply.

Feel your feet grounding into the earth.

Ask for clarity, not perfection.
This keeps your readings pure and aligned, not anxious or performative.

Majors (11–21)

Reflect: which archetype feels like you right now?

Minor Arcana – Wands

Observe your passion or energy flow today.

Cups

Reflect on emotions, relationships, and heart themes.

Swords

Notice your thoughts and communication patterns.

Pentacles

Focus on grounding, work, and stability. Do a 3-card spread to tie the week together.