Tarot and the Psychology of the Soul is part classic guidebook, part provoking how-to, with a dash of stirring tarot philosophy. With a focus on inspiration and inclusivity for all tarot levels, it begins by establishing how we can view the cards as reflections of the psyche and walks readers through how to use the cards for inner work and shadow work.Though we turn to it for answers and solutions, the true power of the tarot is as a mirror. With the right approach, it reflects the tapestry of our psyches, illuminating both conscious will and unconscious longing. It teaches us to befriend our shadows, evoke our imaginations, and attune to the soul’s quiet How am I meant to live?With a tone that is both scholarly and soulful, Mariana Louis guides tarotists—whether beginners or seasoned practitioners—through the archetypal approach. Alongside archetypal interpretations of the cards, she grounds readers in the foundations of depth psychology, inner work techniques, and methods of reading. The following topics are also meanings and approaches to the Major and Minor ArcanaA breakdown of how to apply all that the reader has learnedGuidance on how to prepare for readings and how the cards communicateMore than a manual for reading the cards, it is an initiation into their archetypal depth. Tarot and the Psychology of the Soul invites you to use the tarot as a living language of the psyche, helping you listen to your intuitive wisdom, embrace your wholeness, and awaken the answers waiting within.
After stumbling upon a copy of The Undiscovered Self by Carl Jung in her grandfather’s attic library, Mariana Louis left behind a promising Broadway career to become one of today’s leading tarot scholars and teachers. She devoted herself to the study of the psyche and the mystery of the soul, developing a unique expertise in Jungian depth psychology, archetypal theory, and occult philosophy. These threads alchemized into her archetypal tarot approach, which she has taught to thousands of students worldwide through her popular Archetypal Tarot School and other programs.
In addition to her own educational platform, Persephone’s Sister, Mariana lectures with several Jungian organizations and other online learning communities. She is the cohost of the beloved Soror Mystica podcast, which explores the world’s most enigmatic symbols through in-depth conversations. Mariana is also a published poet and lyricist and is based in her native Queens, New York.
Quick impressions: Overall this is a solid and substantial book on Tarot. I read through it to review it, but it is one to revisit and reread. It lends itself well to studying individual Tarot cards and for inner work.
I do recommend it for libraries that collect esoteric materials. It is a book that I would buy a print copy for my personal collection.
(Full detailed review with additional reading notes available on my blog soon.)