The Necronomicon Tarot is a unique and distinctive deck that merges the traditional structure of tarot with the dark, cosmic horror mythology of H.P. Lovecraft. Authored by Donald Tyson and published by Llewellyn Publications, this deck is designed for those drawn to the realms of the unknown and the occult. Unlike standard decks, it utilizes the imagery of Lovecraftian creatures, eerie landscapes, and occult symbols to provide a fresh perspective on divination and personal introspection. The deck consists of 78 cards, divided into 22 Major Arcana and 56 Minor Arcana, maintaining the traditional count while altering the thematic focus.
The primary distinction of the Necronomicon Tarot lies in its thematic reinterpretation of the tarot archetypes. It is not merely a visual overhaul but a conceptual shift that aligns the cards with the Cthulhu Mythos. This approach offers an immersive experience for fans of Lovecraft’s work and those interested in the darker aspects of the psyche. While the deck can be used for standard divination practices—such as asking questions and drawing cards in layouts like the Celtic Cross or Three-Card Spread—its imagery is specifically crafted to serve as a mirror for the subconscious. The dark and macabre visuals are intended to reflect shadow aspects of the self, prompting a confrontation with hidden fears, anxieties, and desires. This process is described as a transformative journey toward self-awareness and personal growth.
The structure of the deck follows the traditional tarot format, yet the content within is heavily modified. The Major Arcana cards represent powerful cosmic entities and forces from Lovecraft’s stories, replacing traditional archetypes with deities and otherworldly creatures. For example, the Empress is reinterpreted as Shub-Niggurath, a representation of primal femininity and fertility with a dark twist, while the Devil is replaced by Nyarlathotep, a shape-shifting and malevolent god-like being. This reinterpretation extends to the Minor Arcana as well. The traditional suits of Wands, Cups, Swords, and Pentacles are replaced by Tentacles, Cthulhu, Books, and Alchemists. Each of these new suits is connected to specific elements or themes within the Lovecraftian mythos, offering a pathway to explore different aspects of the human experience through a horror lens. An accompanying guidebook is provided to explain the connections between each card and Lovecraft’s writings, aiding the reader in understanding the complex symbolism.
Regarding usability, the Necronomicon Tarot is characterized as a deck for intermediate readers. The dark and sometimes unsettling imagery may be overwhelming for beginners, and it is generally recommended that those new to tarot first familiarize themselves with a more traditional deck. The cards feature black and white illustrations, matte card stock, and a reversible back design, packaged in a box with a companion book. For those seeking to use the deck for divination, the process involves familiarizing oneself with the specific meanings of the 78 cards, setting clear intentions, and shuffling while focusing on a question. The goal is not necessarily to predict the future in a deterministic sense, but to gain insights and guidance by tapping into the subconscious mind and the symbolic language of the Lovecraftian mythos.
Conclusion
The Necronomicon Tarot serves as a specialized tool for divination and self-reflection, offering a distinct alternative to traditional tarot decks. By integrating the mythology of H.P. Lovecraft with the structural framework of the 78-card tarot, it provides a unique medium for exploring the shadow self. Its value lies in its ability to facilitate a deep, introspective journey, allowing users to confront hidden aspects of their psyche through the symbolic language of cosmic horror. While it may present a steeper learning curve for novices due to its thematic intensity, it remains a potent resource for intermediate practitioners and enthusiasts of the genre seeking to deepen their understanding of both tarot and the subconscious.