Artist - Sylvia Gainsford
Book - Howard Rodway
Contributor for this card: S. Gainsford (dedicated to authoress Barbara Cartland) Astrological Influence: Gemini
Element: Air
Month: May, June

My description of this card:
A nude couple sits in a paradise, almost reminiscent of Adam and Eve. The female wears a crown of flowers and appears to have just placed a garland of flowers around the male. Both hold a white lily. Nearby is a fruit-bearing tree and birds fly off in the distance. Happily observing this scene is a winged androgynous spirit. The sun shines through its transparent wings.

Symbolism from the book:
The symbol on the spirit's chest represents Akasha, which is described as the "spiritual atmosphere or ether which envelops us and creation." The tree is actually the Tree of Life, bearing seven different types of fruit (surprisingly these are not described - they appear to be an apple, orange, pear, lemon, cherries, grapes and what looks like a strawberry - there is no further significance as to why these were chosen).

Dove: The soul.
White lily: Innocence.
Flower garland: The couple's love. Forget-me-nots - true love, orange blossoms - purity.
Bluebells: Constancy.

My interpretation:
This card seems to rest solely on matters of human love. While The Lovers also traditionally indicate choice in matters of the heart, and despite the fact that this is acknowledged by Howard Rodway, its symbolism is lacking in this card. Perhaps this is supposed to be an understood trait? The Old Path Lovers represent romance, true love, sexual love, infatuation, beauty, understanding, and harmony. While not clearly depicted, it also represents choice, examination and being tested or tempted. In its reverse meaning, The Lovers can indicate emotional turmoil, a relationship's end, "sexual frustration," and discord.

Dana
darklayce@prodigy.net