There are lots of variations on the basic set of Tarot cards, such as the Hermetic Tarot or the Crowley-Harris Thoth deck. Each set has its own interpretation of the basic cards. The meaning of a card will be open to interpretation during a private tarot reading, depending what other cards are drawn alongside it. Clients will often have high expectations of a private reading, but a tarot reader must carefully consider both of the cards.

Here is just two of the wide selection possessed by each deck:
The Fool:

The general meaning of this Major card when applied to a private reading can vary; essentially it is a path of adventure, signifying new experiences and ambitions to be fulfilled on the horizon. It can also signify ‘crazy’ or chaotic wisdom.

Drawing this card could reveal that there is irrational behaviour within the family, or maybe a feeling of insecurity where work is concerned and possibly a lack of fulfilment in a person’s day to day life.

The Magician:

The Magician card is always an interesting card in any pack of Tarot.

Ruled by Mercury, who is well known to be in charge of communication, this card is full of wisdom and envisages harmony, and points towards capabilities, talents and resources.

It can also impart strength to a card that may be more negative, signifying power and self-discipline, or the completion of a task on the road ahead.

The guidance it provides may not necessarily be in the best interests of the client; a person must be aware that after a reading, the future depends largely on their own mindset.

Part of a Tarot reader’s training involves recognising the responsibility that must be shouldered when giving a private reading, and an awareness of European legislation that any private readings are for entertainment purposes only. However, much of the training involves interpreting the sometimes conflicting meanings of the cards.