The After Tarot deck, released in 2016 by Lo Scarabeo, represents a unique evolution of traditional tarot imagery, specifically extending the narrative of the classic Rider-Waite-Smith system. Authored by Pietro Alligo with artwork by Giulia F. Massaglia, this 78-card Latin-suited deck offers a "future-oriented" perspective, depicting scenes moments after the familiar 1909 Pamela Colman Smith illustrations. While the deck is a standalone tool for divination, its narrative progression and symbolic additions provide a distinct lens for introspection. For individuals seeking holistic balance and personal growth, the After Tarot offers a method to visualize the consequences of current circumstances and the potential unfolding of events, aligning with a broader approach to energy harmonization and spiritual clarity.
Origins and Conceptual Framework
The After Tarot is rooted in the established system of Arthur Waite, ensuring that the foundational symbolism remains recognizable to those familiar with traditional tarot. The deck’s premise is to answer the question, "What happens next?" by continuing the visual stories of the Major and Minor Arcana. For instance, in the Tower card, the structure is shown collapsing after the lightning strike, while in the 3 of Swords, the heart wounds are bandaged, and the swords have fallen out. This chronological progression allows the querent to view their situation not just as a static snapshot, but as part of a developing timeline.
This approach mirrors the holistic philosophy of understanding energy flow—recognizing that current states are transient and lead to future manifestations. The deck maintains the standard structure of 22 Trumps (0-21) and the four suits: Pentacles (coins), Wands (clubs), Cups, and Swords, ranging from Ace to 10, including the Page, Knight, Queen, and King.
Symbolic Enhancements and Interpretive Depth
The artwork by Giulia F. Massaglia is pivotal to the deck’s utility. While mimicking the traditional tones and details to maintain familiarity, the artist introduces new elements that alter or deepen the card's meaning. These additions serve as intuitive triggers for the reader, offering "layers to established meanings."
Key Symbolic Shifts:
- The Fool: In the original deck, the Fool walks toward a cliff. In the After Tarot, he is shown dangling from the cliff edge, emphasizing the immediate consequence of ignoring warnings.
- The Queen of Swords: She balances a butterfly on her weapon. This delicate addition softens the usually harsh connotations of the suit of swords, suggesting a transformation of intellect or a fleeting thought amidst conflict.
- The 10 of Wands: The character has dropped his burden and sits holding only one wand, symbolizing the easing of weight or the approach of relief.
- The 8 of Swords: The trapped woman is depicted in the act of being freed, offering a message of release and liberation from self-imposed restrictions.
- The 4 of Cups: The bored figure pours out the bowl extended to him, highlighting a continued rejection of opportunity.
- The Ten of Cups: The family sits by a fire on the shore, extending the scene of emotional fulfillment into a moment of quiet, sustained connection.
These visual cues are designed to "pump" intuition, allowing even neophytes to access deeper insights without relying solely on memorized meanings. The inclusion of animals, altered poses, and color shifts (such as the lettered panels changing from grey to dark yellow) encourages the reader to look beyond the surface.
Application in Holistic Guidance and Divination
The After Tarot is described as a universal tool, capable of reflecting both the inner world and external circumstances. In the context of holistic energy balancing and personal growth, this deck facilitates a specific type of inquiry focused on progression and outcome.
Suitability for Different Practitioners: * Experienced Readers: Those familiar with the Waite system will find the After Tarot a complementary tool that expands upon known narratives. * Beginners: The intuitive nature of the scenes—where clothing colors, ages, and gestures provide hints—makes it accessible for those new to tarot. * Minimalists: The deck is noted for providing "short but capacious answers," separating the wheat from the chaff for clients who prefer directness over elaborate storytelling.
Divinatory Utility: The deck is suitable for a wide range of questions, including those regarding money, love, and health. Even a simple three-card spread can yield significant answers. The Major Arcana highlights significant events and elemental forces, while the Minor Arcana focuses on the mundane aspects of life. By viewing the "after" state, clients can gain perspective on the trajectory of their current actions, aiding in decision-making for relationship harmony, commercial strategies, or personal development.
Integration with Other Systems
The After Tarot is designed to work seamlessly with the traditional Waite-Smith deck. Some observers note that using the two decks together creates a "3D photo" effect, offering depth and texture by comparing the "before" and "after" states of a situation. This dual-deck approach can be particularly effective for writers or strategists seeking to visualize the denouement of a plan. The companion kit, which includes a 160-page book by Corinne Kenner, offers further guidance, though the deck itself is designed to be intuitive enough for standalone use.
Conclusion
The After Tarot deck serves as a bridge between the known past and the unfolding future. By continuing the narrative established by the Rider-Waite-Smith system, it provides a unique tool for those seeking to understand the consequences of their current energy and actions. Its symbolic additions and narrative depth make it a valuable asset for homeowners, business owners, and spiritual seekers looking to visualize outcomes and maintain balance. While the deck offers a fresh perspective, it remains grounded in the traditional structures of tarot, ensuring that its insights are both reliable and spiritually resonant.