Halloween Tarot - Nine of Imps
By Kipling West; book by Karin Lee
US Games Systems, Inc.

Book description: "Eight imps cling to eight fiery torches, as one renegade imp sets out on a bold trick-or-treating mission, equipped with an illuminated pumpkin lantern. He is inspiring as the leader and creative risk-taker among them, rejecting the conformist, boring, jail-like order of the remaining imps.

"The others look like they might want to join him, but fear holds them back. The ninth and most courageous imp takes on the role of group candy-procurer as he faces the dark Halloween night, alert and ready to defend himself against any ghouls or goblins who may be on the prowl."

Like most other decks, there's something in this card that recalls the Seven of the same suit. In this case, it's like a continuation of the story of the Imps going up to the haunted house. In the Seven, they were making the preparations for the challenge. Now they are implementing their plan, headed by an experienced leader. (In football terms, the Seven would be the huddle, and the Nine would be the scrimmage line.) It's natural to assume that the other eight imps are on the same team, but then why are they *behind* the main character??? Are they watching his back, or keeping him from running away??? Maybe after he gets the candy, they're going to mug him?

In many other decks, the main figure of the 9W is just standing there. In the HT, he is moving to act. There is a sense of preparedness and alertness, but none of the "once bitten, twice shy" feeling of the RW. The ninth imp is courageous and aware, but I get a feeling that he should watch his back as well! I don't trust his companions! They don't appear ready or able to help him, should he need it. In fact, they would probably be more obstacle than aid if he had to retreat.

He doesn't look worried though. He's just gonna do it.

There's a lot of potential meaning in this card, and it would be interesting to see how different querents would view it.

One Love All Love,
Moonchild