The Writer’s Arcana: Crafting Compelling Character Arcs with Tarot
- Julie Embleton
- May 6
- 5 min read
Chapter One: The Fool's Leap
As writers, we strive to create characters that leap off the page, characters who captivate readers and take them on unforgettable journeys. But sometimes, the inspiration we need isn’t forthcoming, or the character we’re forming reads more Meh than Amazing. So what tools can we wield to fire up our imaginations? Enter Tarot!
Tarot is a treasure trove of inspiration for writers, offering rich symbolism, archetypes, and themes that can breathe life into characters and plots. You don’t need to be a tarot expert to use it in your writing—simply let your imagination interpret the cards and run with the imagery they evoke. A single card can spark an idea for a character’s journey, a pivotal plot twist, or even the emotional tone of a scene. This blog series will explore the Major Arcana archetypes, building a library of writing prompts, spreads, and inspiration designed to help even the most creatively blocked writers discover new dimensions in their storytelling. Welcome to The Writer’s Arcana: Crafting Compelling Character Arcs with Tarot!
Chapter One: The Fool
Chapter one of The Writer's Arcana begins with The Fool, the first card of the Major Arcana and the perfect symbol of a protagonist at the start of their adventure. In tarot, The Fool represents new beginnings, limitless potential, and the courage to step into the unknown. For authors, this archetype is an incredible tool for crafting character arcs that resonate deeply with readers.
Who is The Fool?
The Fool is a free spirit, brimming with optimism and curiosity. Standing at the edge of a cliff, they are ready to leap into the unknown, trusting the universe to guide them. Just look at The Fool’s stance; poised to dive into adventure, head in the clouds, fancy clothes blowing in the breeze. The little white dog prances around their heels, encouraging . . . or maybe barking a warning, because The Fool’s journey is not without challenge—they must learn, grow, and evolve as they encounter the trials of life.
In storytelling, The Fool embodies the hero at the start of their journey. Think of Frodo setting out from the Shire, or Harry Potter stepping into the wizarding world. They are filled with potential but lack experience, making them relatable and endearing to readers.
Using The Fool in Character Development
To weave The Fool’s energy into your protagonist, consider the following:
1. What drives them to take the leap? Is it curiosity, ambition, or desperation? Define the motivation that pushes your character out of their comfort zone.
2. What are their strengths and weaknesses? The Fool is courageous but naïve. How do these traits shape your character’s decisions and challenges?
3. Who or what is their guiding light? In tarot, the Fool carries a small bundle and is accompanied by a loyal dog. What tools, allies, or inner resources does your protagonist bring on their journey?
A Tarot Spread for Writers:
Here’s a simple 3-card spread to help you flesh out your protagonist’s arc. Use this spread to brainstorm ideas or deepen your understanding of your protagonist. Pull cards and allow your intuition and imagination to tell the story of what’s happening. You don't need to have an understanding of tarot to decipher the image. Let your imagination take over, and most of all, have fun!
Card 1: The Call to Adventure
What compels your character to leave their ordinary world?
Card 2: The First Challenge
What obstacle tests their courage and naivety early in the story?
Card 3: The Hidden Gift
What strength or lesson do they gain from taking the leap?
The Fool in Action: A Personal Example
In my novel The Dawning, the protagonist embodies The Fool as she steps into a world of magic and danger. Her leap into the unknown is driven by a desire to protect her family and kingdom, but her journey is fraught with lessons about trust, resilience, and self-discovery. By grounding her arc in The Fool’s energy, I was able to create a character readers could root for while exploring universal themes of courage and transformation.
The Fool Reversed: Exploring Challenges and Antagonists
In tarot, a reversed card often represents blocked energy, challenges, or the shadow side of the archetype. When The Fool appears reversed, it can signify recklessness, fear of change, or a refusal to take the leap. For writers, this reversal opens up a host of possibilities for adding depth to your story.
1. A Protagonist’s Darker Path
Imagine your protagonist starting their journey with The Fool’s boundless optimism, only to be derailed by a pivotal event. Perhaps they take a leap too soon, unprepared for the consequences, or they hesitate, allowing fear to hold them back. This reversal can mark a turning point in their arc, forcing them to confront their flaws and grow stronger—or risk falling into despair and embracing darkness.
Example: A young hero sets out on a quest, but their naivety leads to a betrayal that shatters their trust. Now, they must navigate a darker, more treacherous path, learning to balance caution with courage. Perhaps they stray entirely off the path and take on the role of an antagonist?
2. Inspiring Antagonists
The reversed Fool is also a fantastic blueprint for crafting antagonists. Picture a character who embodies the shadow side of The Fool: someone impulsive, irresponsible, or dangerously idealistic. Perhaps they are so consumed by their vision of the future that they disregard the consequences of their actions, becoming a foil to your protagonist.
Example: A charismatic leader who persuades others to follow their reckless plans, creating chaos in their wake. Their actions force the protagonist to step up and become the responsible figure they were meant to be.
3. Adding Conflict and Complexity
Reversed energy can also manifest as internal conflict. Your protagonist might wrestle with self-doubt, second-guessing their decisions, or clinging to the safety of the known. These struggles add emotional depth, making their eventual triumph even more satisfying.
Writing Prompt: The Fool’s Fall
Try this exercise to explore The Fool reversed in your story:
Write a scene where your protagonist takes a leap but lands in unexpected trouble. How do they react? Do they blame themselves, or do they double down on their recklessness?
Alternatively, create a character who embodies The Fool reversed. What motivates their actions? How do they challenge your protagonist, and what lessons do they inadvertently teach them?
Bridging Tarot and Writing
Whether you’re a seasoned author or just starting your first draft, tarot can be an invaluable tool for storytelling. The archetypes of the Major Arcana offer endless inspiration, helping you craft characters and plots that are both meaningful and memorable. Stay tuned for the next post in this series, where we’ll explore The Magician and the art of turning potential into power.
If you've enjoyed this first chapter of The Writer's Arcana, reach out and let me know! You can find me at julie@creativesoultarot.com
As a creative, I've experienced and am sympathetic to the creative challenges authors can face, regardless of whether they're new to writing or have a few titles under their belt. If you're stuck in creative block, lacking inspiration, or need creative guidance in any shape or form, check out my services. Readings start from as little as €24.
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