The Angel Explains Why She Invented Tarot, Jean Jones poetry
“I met this Magician on a journey north to Thebes.
He carried dice and was very bored, and so I joined him.
He was obsessed with the future, so we played a game of chess.
I asked him if he was prepared to die, for I found him attractive.
He asked me if I could see the future, for his fear was great.
I said I had some cards, which, if carefully shuffled
Would provide him his answers. I made them from
The pieces of the chess board as I defeated him.
Listen, I said. I am your interpreter, the High Priestess.
I see that you are the Magician, and that you are crossed
With Death. Do not fear, for your goal is the World.
Your distant past shows a strong influence to have
Been the Emperor who was your father. “How did you
Know that?” “Your recent influence was the Lovers
For you left a woman to come and see your future
In Thebes. Is this true?” “Yes, “ he said.” “I did
Not wish to marry her.” “Your immediate influence
Is the Wheel of Fortune. Thebes will determine
Your fate.” “Is it good?” he asked. “Well,
Oedipus, I’m not sure, but I know this. You
Will remember this meaning well. Here are
My cards to you as a gift. It will help you defeat
A monster you will encounter there. She
Represents the Wheel of Fortune.”
