THE MEOWRACLE ALMANAC

It often happens that a particular issue won't leave us alone. We can't let it go, and it keeps going round and round in our heads. Sometimes the answers to our questions are already somewhere within us, but we need a little help to bring them to the surface. Metaphorical cards can be just such a tool.

These cards usually feature either a completely abstract image or a scene that seems easy to understand at first glance. However, the purpose is not simply to describe what is shown. Our task is to look at the card with attention and curiosity, notice our first reaction, and reflect on the meaning we find in the image. Unlike cards with fixed interpretations, metaphorical cards do not contain one correct answer. The same illustration may remind one person of loneliness, another of rest, and someone else of freedom. The meaning comes not only from the card itself, but also from the person looking at it.

How to explore a metaphorical card

Before choosing a card, think of a question or situation that has been occupying your mind. It is usually better to ask an open question rather than one that requires a simple yes or no.

For example:

• What am I overlooking in this situation?
• What deserves more of my attention?
• How do I really feel about what is happening?

After revealing the card, take your time. Notice which detail catches your eye first. Look at the characters, their surroundings, the colours, the weather, and any unusual objects. You do not need to explain every part of the picture. Begin with whatever feels most noticeable to you.

Let's look at an example

To see how this can work, Meowracle suggests examining one card together.

What do we see? A black cat is lying in a puddle. Rain is falling, and prickly flowers are growing in the background.

What might we reflect on while looking at this simple image?

• What mood is the cat in?
• Is it uncomfortable in the rain, or does it feel safe there?
• Could the rain be hiding the cat's sadness, or perhaps helping it cool down?
• Why is the cat staying in the puddle instead of looking for shelter?
• What might the prickly flowers in the background symbolise?
• Do they appear threatening, protective, or simply unusual?
• Which part of the image attracted your attention first?

Meowracle offers these questions only as a starting point and does not want to give too many clues. Have a go at exploring the card for yourself. Ask your own questions and notice the associations that appear. Most likely, different people will find very different meanings in the same card. Even your own interpretation may change depending on the question you ask or what is happening in your life at the time.

Metaphorical cards do not predict the future or tell you what decision to make. They simply offer a visual starting point that may help you look at a familiar situation from another angle.