“…the power of this tarot deck lies in Silvermoon’s understanding that despite their historic roots, symbols continue to grow and evolve, as does anyone working within the Wise Woman’s way”

I’m not a card reader. In fact, I’m not particularly gifted with sensitivity in the synthesis of symbol and personal mythology as it is printed on card stock, neatly packaged and colorfully presented. I hold cards in my hands, and any life thrumming in them falls still. It was with a sense of utmost confidence in Flash Silvermoon, herself, that I agreed to review one of the culminations of her life’s work, The Wise Woman’s Tarot.

I began that pursuit as all eager students should―by first reading the accompanying text. Evident from the start was the truth that this deck is created with the feminine fully evoked, which I did glean sentiently from the book and accepted as a keen indicator as to why so many other decks have never spoken to me: they did not intend to.

On first read, the name of the deck could easily be misconstrued. It would appear this deck is for women, and it is certainly steeped in the love, lore and legend of the Goddess. Look again. This deck is aptly named for wise women, those who honor the balance of All Things, including the delicate masculine complement and the multicultural ties connecting us all. With this revelation newly opened in mind and insight, the cards spoke volumes.

Silvermoon has put a great deal of thought and introspection into the symbols giving life to her deck. Working within the traditional archetypes of Minor and Major Arcanas the story of each Arcana unfolds, which just happens to smartly mirror the story of thoughtforms becoming the formed world. Using the foundation of the traditional tarot Silvermoon retells its story in true Aquarian style, balanced, nurturing and whole.

While the cards are a work of art and the voice of insight, the spiral-bound text holds its own. Silvermoon doesn’t just explain the cards in intricate detail, she divulges a cumulative and diverse history of every figure and scenario presented, weaving them together as a shared chronicle. It is this facet of the deck that reveals the twenty-five years of work Silvermoon put into it.

Also expressed is the need for and act of how to approach and work with cards as oracles, the necessity of shielding while doing any intuitive work, and how the symbolism of the cards correlates with the chakra system, colors, totems, and planets. The standard presentation of layouts and their function is presented, along with many short cuts, charts and diagrams, as well as instruction on how to do card readings for animal friends.

In summary, the power of this tarot deck lies in Silvermoon’s understanding that despite their historic roots, symbols continue to grow and evolve, as does anyone working within the Wise Woman’s way.

S. K. Harrell (NC)