THE PAPER ORACLE

this guide booklet will have been distributed by Eric Maille or an

ericmaille.com
authorized seller on his behalf. Any authorized digital copy of this
aguidebook
Lenormandwill havedeck by Eric Maille
been downloaded via ericmaille.com. You can also
visit ericmaille.com to view a list of retailers who are authorized to
distribute this product and it's guide.
 Eric Maille is a 2D artist living in Oklahoma. He works in
Oklahoma City area both as an independent artist and as a
ber of Art Group OKC. He graduated from the University of
homa in 2016.

Both his interest in art and in cartomancy were passed

him by his family. He began working on The Paper Oracle in
, while finishing his tarot deck,The Ink Witch Tarot Deck.

can see more of his work at ericmaille.com

A Lenormand Deck

I’d like to begin this guide simply by saying thank you for having purchased the
Paper Oracle. This is a project I’ve poured many hours into, and it has become
very dear to my heart. I first became interested in Lenormand decks while
finishing my tarot deck, The Ink Witch, and wanting to delve deeper into the
vast overlap between the realms of illustration and cartomancy. Lenormand
quickly became a topic I found almost as compelling as Tarot.

The Paper Oracle deck is modeled after the traditional Lenormand Deck, with a
few small changes and additions; so I consider it to be a Lenormand Deck
suitable for beginners and experts alike, as well as somewhat of a unique
Oracle Deck in and of itself.

Lenormand Decks were named for the French occultist Marie Anne Le
Normand, who was alive in the 1700s. Le Normand was influential in the
practice of using cards as tools for divination, though the “Lenormand Deck,”
that was named after her was not her own creation. Rather, it was based off of
a card game of chance that already existed; “The Game of Hope.”

Much like the tarocchi game decks that would later become tarot decks,
cartomancers found the images in The Game of Hope appealing and suitable
for more esoteric practices than merely as elements of a simple parlor game.
While it’s rumored that Le Normand may have been one of the people using the
Game of Hope cards in her practice, it wouldn’t be renamed after her, and
packaged explicitly as a divination tool, until years after her death.

While the Paper Oracle is not an entirely traditional Lenormand Deck, it can be
used as one.

Typically a Lenormand Deck consists of 36 standard cards. The Paper Oracle

includes those 36 cards (though some have been renamed and re-imagined)
plus seven more. Removing the cards numbered 37-43 would essentially turn
the Paper Oracle into a standard Lenormand deck, if that is what you would
prefer to work with.
In fact, any of the cards could be removed, and the remainder of the deck would
still function as a veritable divination tool. There is really no right or wrong way
to use the Paper Oracle, and if you wished to disregard this booklet entirely and
simply use your intuition to practice with these cards, that would be fine as well.
In fact, I actually suggest spending some time with each card before reading the
meanings of each of them, just to see what sort of ideas they inspire without the
influence of my own interpretations.
I also recommend using the full 43-card deck if you are after more nuanced and
refined readings.
u are new to using Lenormand decks, know that they differ from Tarot in
ral ways, including the smaller number of cards. Some of the names on these
s will be familiar to you if you have practiced Tarot before, but the meanings of
e cards are not necessarily the same.

xample, “The Tower” card in Tarot is an omen of chaos, destruction, and

ption. In a Lenormand Deck however, “The Tower” card symbolizes authority,
ion, and ego. These distinctions are important if you are wishing to practice
his deck in a more traditional manner. However, I always recommend
wing your intuition when using tools like Tarot and Lenormand Decks. If
ething seems to mean something unique to you, I don’t think you necessarily
to read too much into the "intended" meanings of these cards.

all, cartomancy works primarily by helping us to explore the subconscious, so

feel shy about following your first thoughts to ascribe meanings to the cards
self, and then connecting the cards in your readings together to form answers.
said before, there is no wrong way to read this deck.

ever, if at any point you feel at a loss, or simply want a place to start from, you
eference this guide to look up the meanings of each card as I intended to
municate them. Most of these, again, will correspond to traditional meanings of
rmand Decks used by cartomancers for generations.

that this is not a comprehensive guide to reading Lenormand decks, and like
, different readers of Lenormand cards may interpret them in slightly varying
. A more in-depth guide to Lenormand cards can help you to understand the
r Oracle in more detail, but this guide is not a bad place to start, and will also
de my own personal interpretations of the cards, the intended meanings of the
seven unique cards, and some insights into my artistic and creative decisions
n illustrating the Paper Oracle.
For suggestion
My example, the is to
“Past,
startPresent,
with simple
Future,”
spreads,
spread
or by
is asimply
popular
asking
tarot-reader’s
a questionspread
and
pulling
that cana easily
few cards
use from
thesethe
cards.
deckYou
to piece
may choose
togethertoasaskyour
a question
answer. and draw three
cards; the first represents an important aspect of your past, the second is your
current situation,
For example: andwere
If you the third represents
to ask “What dohow it may
I need play about
to know out in the
this future.
job
opportunity,” and were to then draw “The Mountain,” and “The Snake,” you might
ascertain
In the case that
of someone
the example
involved
above,inyouthe might
job opportunity
draw “Thewas
Fox"deceiving
as the card
youinand
the
getting
past, which
in your
represents
way. Theyour
Mountain
workplace
is often
andassociated
career. Youwith
may obstacles,
pull the Mountain
and The or
Snake tois often
represent
associated
the present
with lies
obstacle
and tricks.
in your
Together
way. Then
theyfinally
couldyou
indicate
may draw
that a
deception
the Gardenwasas ainclue
playabout
and would
the future.
create a roadblock for you.

You might then wish to draw additional cards for further clarity. If for example you
asked “How do I uncover the deception,” and were to draw “The Garden,” and “The
Birds,” you could interpret that as an indication to take advantage of your social
network and status. The Garden has to do with social gatherings and networks of
people, while the birds represent chatter, gossip, and communication. These cards
could be telling you to reach out to your network and ask what people know about
the job opportunity in question.
 Mystery Spread.”
n be used to gain more detailed insights into a situation or a question. There
many
volvesversions
drawingof three
this cards
reading,
andbut
arranging
I’ll explain
them
a simple
face down
and easy-to-follow
in a triangle. The
on
ardthat
represents
I prefer for
a situation
my ownor readings.
“mystery.” The bottom left card can be thought
an action, and the bottom right card can be thought of as an object of that
n.
spread first involves choosing a significator to represent the querent or their
tion.These are typically “The Man,” or the “The Woman,” depending on who
eading
you drew
is for.
“The
In this
Fox”particular
as your “mystery
deck, those
card,”
cards
youare
could
called
determine
“The Masculine,”
that the
ng
Therevolved
Feminine,”around
and the
there
workplace,
is also a “The
as TheNon-Binary”
Fox often represents
card as well,
a job
thatorcould
er.
ateThen
an individual
if you drewwith“The
a non-binary
Ship,” as gender
an action,
identity.
and “The Clover” as the object,
could ascertain that this means that you will be moving forward (The Ship)
rd something
etimes, fortunate
significator cards(The
in aClover)
readinginrepresent
your workplace (TheorFox.)
a situation concept rather
a person, so you could instead draw a card like “The Fox” for readings about
workplace, or “The Heart” for readings about relationships.

may pull whatever card you choose as your significator and place it in the
er of your reading to represent you or a querent, and focus the reading
nd them.

shuffle the remaining cards, and arrange eight of them into a square around
significator, creating a 3x3 grid of cards with the significator in the middle. A
general reading without a specific issue or question in mind can be done by
hoosing a significator at all, and allowing that card to be drawn randomly
g with the others.

e your cards are placed, begin reading from left to right, starting with the top
then the middle row, then the bottom row.
Each column represents a phase of time- with the left column indicating the past,
the middle column indicating the present, and the right column indicating the future.

The top row of cards indicates what is on your mind, or your motivations. It may
contain insights into the things that drive you, such as your anxieties or desires. It
can often be thought of as representing consciousness.
Read from left to right, with the leftmost card representing the past, the middle
representing the present, and the right representing the future.

The middle row represents your situation. These are things that are affecting your
life, like obstacles, your environment, or the people around you. These factors are
likely influencing you from an external source, or describe situations and scenarios
in which you find yourself. Again, read chronologically from left to right.

The bottom row represents elements of influence. These are the things that you
have the most control over, things you already have learned, and lessons you
already understand. Often, these cards are associated with the subconscious mind.
Remember to also read from left to right, to understand the past, present, and the
future.
Traditional Lenormand has only 36, so you may wish to remove the final 7
s if a traditional Lenormand deck is what you’re looking for. I’ve also changed
ames of some of the original cards in the deck in order to reframe their
nings slightly, which I’ll explain in more detail in the descriptions of those
fic cards.
erally, the cards in a Lenormand deck also correspond to specific cards in a
ar deck of playing cards, so I’ll also include mention of which playing cards
th which of the original 36 Lenormand cards.

e each card was illustrated with a specific meaning in mind, my intention is

you read these cards however you like. If a card reminds you of something
al and unique to you, or if your intuition seems to tell you that a card
sents something contrary to what this guide says; I will always encourage
o follow those instincts. Different readers have their own special associations
certain cards; and so different cards may mean different things to different
le.
not a bad idea to look through the deck without this booklet before you
ence it for the first time, so that you can explore what thoughts and ideas
card conjures to mind automatically without any external influences. Or, if
wish to ignore this booklet completely, and use this deck as an intuitive oracle
, that is also fine.

deck is for you after all, and you are the one reading it, so it only makes
e for your own insights and intuition to take precedent.
The Rider may be thought of as a herald. They represent news and messages,
arrivals, and swift movement. Here, the Rider is portrayed with the Caduceus; not to
be confused with the medicinal symbol of the Rod of Asclepius. The Caduceus,
much like the Rider is a symbol of heralds and messengers. It's often been
associated with the messenger god Hermes; as well as Iris, the messenger of the
goddess Hera.
The Rider
Messages, News, Arrivals, Heralds, Speed, Swift Movement or Travel.
The Rider is associated with the Nine of Hearts.

2. THE CLOVER
A classic symbol of luck, the Lenormand Clover is also associated with other
manners of fortune. This card represents opportunities, small happinesses,
contentment, and general lightheartedness. It may be worth noting that this is not
merely a four-leafed clover of luck, but also a blooming flower; symbolic of a general
sense of a blossoming well-being.

Good Fortune, New Opportunities, Small Joys, Lightheartedness, Contentment.

The Clover is associated with the Six of Diamonds

3. THE SHIP
The key theme represented by the Ship is the concept of travel. It may indicate
voyages, adventures, or departures. It spans a vast and sometimes treacherous sea,
and often refers to journeys over great distances. Its associations with departures
and and voyages may also at times be indicative of farewells.

Travel, Journeys, Adventure, Departure, Farewells, Distance

The Ship is associated with the Ten of Spades

4. THE HOUSE
The Clover
The House may represent the physical concept of a house, but also may also
represent a place that feels like home, or the symbols associated with a home; like
family, security, and comfort. It is important to remember that this card may represent
a physical place, or a mental one. It may also represent a state of feeling at-home.

Family Matters, The Home, Security, Safety, Privacy, Traditions

The House is associated with the King of Hearts

The Ship

The House
 Tree can represent a myriad of symbols, but they each revolve around a central
e of health and well-being. The tree is grounded. It has grown from a small
and will continue to grow larger and stronger. Its roots go deep into the earth,
so it is also a symbol of the past. Consider how groundedness and strength
ibute to your overall health. The Tree
h, Growth, Groundedness, Physical and Spiritual Strength, Connections to the
and the Earth.
Tree is associated with the Seven of Hearts

HE CLOUDS
his card, clouds swirl around and within a crystal ball; they are the only thing
can be seen by the eye inside of it. This is a card that indicates confusion and
dea of things being obscured from sight or awareness. One may be lacking a
sense of direction, or may be unable see things that are right in front of them
n this card appears.

usion, Illusions, Uncertainty, Lack of Clarity or Focus, Negative Conditions,

Weather.
Clouds are associated with the King of Clubs

HE SNAKE
cally the snake is a symbol of deceptions and betrayals. This card may indicate
someone is being manipulative or deceitful. Someone may be lying.
otiations may go poorly as one party takes advantage of another. This card can
of manipulation and lies, but can also indicate that you will gain control over
rtant information, or uncover important truths. The Cloud
ption, Lies, Secrets, Hidden Information, Betrayal, Temptations.
Snake is associated with the Queen of Clubs

HE COFFIN
ose painted upon the coffin as it is lowered into the earth is an homage to
ela Colman-Smith's Death Tarot Card. This is a card of death, but also rebirth.
e it is possible that it can represent actual death, funerals, loss, and grieving, it
portant to remember this card is just as much a symbol of closure and new
nnings. One thing dies, so that another can grow.

h, Loss, Grief, Rebirth, Transformation, Closure, Endings and New Beginnings.

Coffin is associated with the Nine of Diamonds

The Snake

The Coffin
 This is an almost entirely positive card that represents kind feelings and
interactions. Gifts may be exchanged, a new relationship may flower, one may be
receiving appreciation and admiration. The Lenormand bouquet is ultimately a
symbol of cordiality, flattery, and good manners. It is often an excellent card to
appear in readings regarding relationships, one’s social life, or the workplace.
The Bouquet
Kindness, Etiquette, Flattery, A Gift, Acceptance, Appreciation, Admiration,
Pleasantries.
The Bouquet is associated with the Queen of Spades

10. THE KNIFE

This card stands in place of the traditional “Lenormand Scythe.” I chose to replace
the Scythe because it that symbol is usually a symbol that we will immediately with
death, while this card is more about the ideas of cutting, sharpness, and danger. It
may be warning of dangerous accidents, hastily made decisions, or could indicate a
reckoning. The Knife is also a a card of “cutting things away.” Problems,
relationships, and situations in question may be soon to end when this card
appears. Proceed with caution. Cutting ties may be exactly what you want or need;
however, the knife is sharp and it is important you take care not to get hurt.

Danger, Rash Decisions, Accidents, Warnings, Reckonings, Cutting Ties, Quick

Changes.
The Knife or "Lenormand Scythe," is associated with the Jack of Diamonds

11. THE BROOM

In most decks, this card is referred to as the “Lenormand Whip.” In other decks it
may be a “Rod,” or the Whip and the Broom may be portrayed as two separate and
distinct cards. They are all, however symbols of experiencing, and resolving
arguments or conflicts. The broom specifically comes with a connotation of
“sweeping away.” While this card may indicate disagreements and escalating
The Scissor
conflict it also suggests that these things have the potential to be resolved cleanly.
The broom has the ability to create a clean slate, and clear away clutter. In some
instances, this card may indicate damage or abuse that has already been done, and
the need to heal from it.

Arguments, Escalating Conflict, Debate, Working to Resolve Disagreements,

Separation, Damage- or the cleaning of Damage.
The Broom or "Lenormand Whip" is associated with the Jack of Clubs

The Whip
 name of this card may remind you of the 1963 horror film by Alfred Hitchcock-
h is not a bad association to help you remember the meaning of the Birds. This
ard that can indicate chaos or anxiety; but especially when it comes with
munication. Lots of people may be trying to make themselves heard, and may be
ring without getting anywhere when this card appears. This card may appear to
ate fruitless arguing, gossip, excitement, or nervousness. Imagine this card as The Birds
of little birds chattering and squawking loudly in the trees.

e Groups of People, Bickering, Gossip, Poor Communication, Speaking but not

ning, Excitement, Nervousness.
Birds are associated with the Seven of Diamonds

HE CHILD
ally speaking, this card could represent someone who is a child, however it also
sents the symbolic aspect of children and childhood. The Child indicates
ness and immaturity. A new beginning or opportunity may be on the horizon
n this card appears- especially in tangent with a card like “The Clover.” This card
also be indicating that someone is behaving immaturely, naively, or innocently.
n times, embarking on a new venture may place us in a state where we feel
e or innocent and unaware
Child also represents potential that has yet to be used or discovered.

h, Children, Innocence, Naivety, Newness, New Prospects, New Beginnings,

ntial, Inexperience, Immaturity.
Child is associated with the Jack of Spades

HE FOX
Fox is a versatile card that can represent many things; and so I’ve drawn it as a
e-shifting kitsune. At its core, the main concept represented by the Fox is
aps the idea of looking out for yourself. The Fox may indicate cunning or trickery,
hness or self-care, and performing hard work. While the fox may sometimes
m like a deceptive or suspicious character; it takes on this nature to adapt and
ve. This card’s association with survival means it is very often associated with
and the workplace; but also with securing resources, and caring for one’s own
The Child
s.

erness, Cunning, Trickery, Selfishness, Self-Care, Hustle, Work, the Workplace,

ing Out For One’s Self
Fox is associated with the Nine of Clubs

The Fox
 Traditionally, the Lenormand Bear is a symbol of power. While this can mean
physical power, it also refers to the power of authority and leadership. Thus, the
Bear may represent an authority figure like a boss or a political leader. It may also
indicate strength of character or strong emotions. The Bear has many positive and
negative connotations such as a mother bear who protects her cubs, or an
aggressive and overbearing boss. The Bear
Strength, Leadership, Protective Instincts, Authority, Dominance, Temper,
Bossiness
The Bear is associated with the Ten of Clubs

16. THE STARS

The Stars are yet another card that may be familiar to anyone who already
practices Tarot. Much Like the Tarot card, “The Star,” the Lenormand Stars
represent the concepts of hope and optimism. Beyond that, this card may represent
progress toward a goal, or the fulfillment of dreams. The Lenormand Stars are
primarily a card of wishes coming true. During moments of doubt, the Stars are a
reminder that everything will work out in the end. The Stars may also indicate literal
stars, and call you to look toward Astrology, or consider your place in a larger
universe.

Hope, Optimism, Progress Towards Goals, Wishes Coming True, Spirituality, The
Cosmos.
The Stars are associated with the Six of Hearts

17. THE STORK

While the classic symbol of a stork is often associated with children and childbirth,
the Lenormand Stork is more about the concept of change and transition. Paired
with cards like “The Bouquet” and “The Child,” this may indeed refer to a newborn
baby, but oftentimes the card merely points us toward new phases of life. Cycles
are transitioning when this card appears, and something is about change. This card
can indicate physical movement, or other changes in life; but it’s a good idea to
associate the Stork with ideas like flight and migration.
The Stars
New Phases, Changing Cycles, Transitions, Movement, Yearning for Change
The Stork is associated with the Queen of Hearts

The Stork
 itionally, this card would be called "the Lenormand Dog". I’ve changed it to the
Familiar” to somewhat adjust the specific details of its meaning, and give the
r Oracle a little bit more of a "witchy" quality. This card is about friendship and
y, but as the Familiar, I hoped the card would better emphasize the idea of
port,” particularly from friends and loved ones. This card may indicate a person,
may also refer the concept of leaning on friends in a time of need. The familiar is
nly faithful and loyal, but supportive and provides counsel or assistance when
The Dog
d upon.

dship, Ally, Loyalty, Support, Familiarity, Companionship, Confidant

Familiar, or "Lenormand Dog" is associated with the Ten of Hearts

HE TOWER
e different than the Tower found in most Tarot decks, the Lenormand Tower is
arily a symbol of ego. It reaches high above all other things, and in that height it
mes isolated. The Tower may indicate people and authorities who are behaving
they are elite. One might think of this card as representing an “Ivory,” tower. It
epresent motivated and ambitious people who try to reach for the stars, or may
sent narcissists who merely perceive themselves to be greater than others.
Tower can can also symbolize loneliness and seclusion. There is also an
ent of protection and strength in the Tower. Perhaps the tower rises so high
use it comes from a solid and strong foundation.

Arrogance, Authority, Ambition, Isolation, Loneliness, Hierarchy, Power

Tower is associated with the Six of Spades

HE GARDEN
Garden is a gathering place, and is usually associated with one’s social life or
ork. It may indicate meetings or parties, or any event where crowds will gather.
o indicates things coming out into the open. The Garden may be an indication
a secret is about to be revealed; but The Garden is often interpreted in a very
ve light. Someone might be announcing a wedding engagement or other cause
elebration. They may quite literally be planning on "coming out." The Garden
rally refers to pleasant social interactions, successful meetings, and being
e in nature.
The Tower
al Life, Congregations, Meetings, Spending Time in Nature, Community,
orking, Public Announcements.
Garden is associated with the Eight of Spades

The Garden
 The Mountain represents obstacles. It may indicate delays, especially when cards
like “The Ship” or “The Rider,” appear with it. It may indicate fruitless struggles. Like
Sisyphus, you may feel that you are rolling a boulder up a hillside only to have
repeatedly roll back down before you reach the top. Though the Mountain
represents hurdles and challenges that may or may not always be overcome, it is
worth remembering that facing challenges is how we get stronger. Confronting
obstacles is a way of growing. The Mountain
Obstacles, Challenges, Delays, Hurdles, Struggle, Burdens, Slow Movement,
Difficulties, Impairment.
The Mountain is associated with the Eight of Clubs

22. THE CROSSROAD

This card is about decision-making. It represents that two or more options have
become available to you. Perhaps you are literally at a crossroad, or perhaps you
are making an important choice. When uncertain of what your options are, perhaps
look to the adjacent cards for hints and clarification. This card may represent a
sense of hesitation, and you may be feeling unable to decide between the choices
before you. However, this card also indicates a sense of free will. You are the one in
charge of the path you take.

Choices, Decisions, Hesitation, Opportunities, Options.

The Crossroad is associated with the Queen of Diamonds

23. THE MICE

They’re not as cute as they might look. The Mice indicate decay and a sense that
things are at risk; but the mice are small and the way in which they destroy may
start out very subtly. You might have something small nagging at your happiness, or
perhaps feel a little anxious. Left unchecked, these things may grow into larger and
larger problems. Your resources may be at risk when this card appears. Perhaps
something important to you is being slowly drained away. Take careful notice of
your resources, and recognize that you cannot always ignore the small problems in
your life without them eventually developing into larger ones.
The Crossroad
Gradual Losses, Dwindling, Depleting, Decay, Disease, Destruction, Nagging
Anxiety, Threatened Resources.
The Mice are associated with the Seven of Clubs

The Mice
 is a card of love and emotion. Unsurprising to most, this card can indicate
nce and relationships, but it also symbolizes any strong emotion or passion;
lly in a positive context. It may indicate a job or project that we feel passionate
t. It may refer to affection we feel toward friends and lovers, or family. It may
at times indicate self-love, or may simply represent the idea of romanticism.
heart on this card is made of crystal or perhaps glass; a reminder that the
epts represented by The Heart are at times both precious and fragile.
The Heart
, Affection, Romance, Passion, Strong Emotions, Generosity, Feeling.
Heart is associated with the Jack of Hearts

HE RING
aditional Lenormand Decks, this card might be illustrated with the manner of
hat goes on one’s finger. It is a symbol of promises and commitments, but
than this The Ring is a symbol of union and partnership. The ring of the solar
se shown on this card is representative of The Ring’s meaning of togetherness
wholeness. Two things come together, and combine themselves into something
It is a union, but can also be a fusion of sorts. The Ring may indicate things
weddings and marriages, but also contracts, agreements, truces, and
eration. The Ring also represents patterns and cycles. It may indicate
tions that repeat themselves, or represent the idea of “going in circles.”

mises, Agreements, Union, Cooperation, Contracts, Cycles, Repetition.

Ring is associated with the Ace of Clubs

HE BOOK
Book is connected to the idea of knowledge and study. It is also associated
he discovery of secrets and wisdom that come from learning and education.
grimoire shown on this card is more than a simple book; it radiates power, and
derstand it would be to tap into that power. The knowledge that comes with
Book is great, and often incredibly valuable. This card may also be taken quite
lly, and may in fact simply be telling you to turn to books for answers, or to The Ring
s on your studies.

wledge, Learning, Education, Study, Wisdom, Discovery, Uncovering Secrets,

arch.
Book is associated with the Ten of Diamonds

The Book
 While this card may indicate actual mail or messages, The Letter primarily
represents communication and correspondence; especially in the context of
documents and paperwork. The Letter may represent legal forms, a diploma, a
lease, an e-mail, a text message, a certificate, and so on. This card indicates the
sharing of information. Depending on what other cards appear alongside The
Letter, you might be about to receive an invitation, a job offer, an acceptance letter,
or a love letter.
The Letter
Communication, Information, Correspondence, Mail, Documents, Messages,
Conversation.
The Letter is associated with the Seven of Spades

28. THE MASCULINE

This card is often referred to as “The Man,” in most Lenormand Decks, and is
used to represent just that-- a man. On a deeper level, the card represents
masculinity, and I’ve chosen to re-name the card to emphasize this. The Masculine
can represent any male-identifying person. Perhaps it represents the male querent,
or someone’s father or husband. It can also represent the qualities one associates
with masculinity; whatever those may be for the querent or reader. Because I’ve
chosen an image of Mars and its two moons for this card, I also believe it’s fair to
associate this card with the planet Mars, and the things it often represents such as
energy, aggression, and passion. It is important to consider that masculinity means
different things to different people, and there are many ways to interpret this card.

Masculinity, A Man, Father Figures, Brothers, Husbands, Sons, Energy,

Aggression, Passion, Mars
The Masculine, or "The Lenormand Man," is associated with the Ace of Hearts.

29. THE FEMININE

Like “The Masculine,” this card has been renamed from its traditional name, which
is “The Woman." Again, I’ve chosen to emphasize the card’s meaning of femininity,
though it can still appear in readings to indicate specific female-identifying
individuals; such as a female querent, a mother figure, a wife, etc. It may also
simply refer to qualities viewed by the querent or reader as “feminine.” This card
The Man
shows the planet Venus, and so it is also fair to say that this card could represent
Venus and the symbols often associated with it such as love, romance, sexuality,
and beauty. Remember that there are many ways to interpret femininity, and so this
card may mean different things to different people.

Femininity, A Woman, Mother Figures, Sisters, Wives, Daughters, Venus, Love,

Beauty, Sexuality.
The Feminine, or "The Lenormand Woman" is associated with the Ace of Spades

The Woman
 n considered one of the most complex cards of the Lenormand deck, the Lily
at times seem as though it has two very different sides. It represents the
epts of innocence, morality, purity, and virtue. At the same time it represent
uality, sex, and pleasure. Pay close attention to the cards around the Lily to
rn which of The Lily’s two faces is appearing your reading, but also recognize
he two sides of this card do not always need to be examined as opposites. At
The Lily
s they may coincide. The concepts of sexuality and pleasure are not inherently
ary to the concepts of morality and innocence. I often like to think of this card
presenting sexuality and sensuality in a positive and healthy light. The Lily is a
that can represent peace with one’s own bodily comfort; sexual or otherwise.
e the Lily can exhibit both sexuality and prudence, it is likely appearing in your
ng to bring a sense of stability and peace to you and the way in which you
y material pleasure.

mony, Maturity, Innocence, Morals, Sexuality, Sex-Positivity, Sensuality,

fort, Peace.
Lily is associated with the King of Spades

HE SUN
ning” is a great word to associate with The Sun. The Sun indicates success
accomplishment, but also the joy and energy that comes with these things. The
may foretell a burst of motivation or positive fortune to drive you toward
ing a goal. It may represent charisma and growth, or the shining of a light on
ething previously hidden. All of these things often deal with successful progress
me way. This card may telling you that your goals are attainable, or that a
ry is close at hand.

ess, Victory, Meeting Goals, Charisma, Warmth, Secrets Being Revealed.

Sun is associated with the Ace of Diamonds

HE MOON
Moon represents our subconscious, as well as the darker hidden aspects
elves. It may represent dreams or intuition, or a sense of gravity. It may appear
adings when we are in a place to be observed-- like a bright light in a dark sky,
g the tides to us. In this sense, The Moon can represent things like recognition
ame. It may be telling us that we are in a favorable position to draw in
ever we desire. It is a great card to appear for anyone who is creative, as it can
cially represent success with endeavors that rely heavily upon imagination.

ion, Dreams, the Subconscious, Hidden or Repressed Feelings, Recognition,

asy, Imagination.
Moon is associated with the Eight of Hearts

The Sun

The Moon
 Fairly straightforward, The Key is a symbol of unlocking. It may represent the
concept of openness, such as having an open mind or open heart. It may indicate
new opportunities becoming available to you, or may refer to a sense of
understanding things that have only just been made clear. The Key is also a
symbol of being freed, and may be telling you that you are about to be released
from some burden or undesirable situation. It may represent new access and
The Key
opportunity.

Unlocking, Openness, Freedom, Revelation, Achievement, New Doors Opening,

Access.
The Key is associated with the Eight of Diamonds

34. THE FISH

Primarily, The Fish card is indicative of commerce. It has to do with wealth,
money, and business. The card may appear to represent your finances or source
of income. While The Fish may refer to wealth and abundance in the shape of
money, it also asks us the evaluate what we consider as “wealth.” The Fish may
allude to anything that we find valuable, and may even refer to more abstract
concepts such as things that are emotionally valuable.

Finances, Commerce, Wealth, Abundance, Values, Gain

The Fish are associated with the King of Diamonds

35. THE ANCHOR

A versatile, but fairly straightforward symbol, the Anchor represents stability and
the concept of weighing something down. It may indicate that a project or a job, or
anything long-term. It may also indicated that movement has halted, or that
something is keeping you in place. The Anchor also represents things that help
you to feel secure, stable, and grounded. When this card appears, you are likely to
be held in place for a while, for better or worse.

Stability, Stationary, Grounded, Long-Term, Safety, Burdens, Lack of Movement.

The Anchor is associated with the Nine of Spades
The Fish

The Anchor
cross is one of the oldest and most widely used symbols in the world. Through
istory, it has appeared in may different cultures, places, and time periods. In
aditional Lenormand Deck, the Cross often shares a close tie with the symbol
crucifix, and can represent pain, burdens, and sacrifice. More than that
ever, The Cross is a symbol of responsibility and destiny. The image on this
is of a “Celtic Cross” Tarot reading, with all of the cards still laying face down.
The Cross
symbol represents fate and spirituality, but also reminds us that these things
ften interconnected. Spirituality, destiny, and responsibility often go hand in
to such a point where it can be hard to separate them at times. Pain, burdens,
often spiritual work are a part of life that we must deal with in order to grow, and
pes of one day realizing our higher calling.

uality, Religion, Duty, Responsibility, Burden, Pain, Sacrifice, Higher Calling,

ny.
Cross is associated with the Six of Clubs

The Broom

The Broom is used for clearing away what happens after the Whip – the hurt, the
dust from physical activity, etc. The Broom is a healthy separation whereas the
Whip could mean a nasty break up. The Broom is compromise or a fresh start. It’s
cleaning house. It’s also work so that physical aspect isn’t missing from the Broom
either. The Broom also helps bridge the gap when it comes to swapping the Scythe
for the Scissors.
either unique to the Paper Oracle, or something found only occasionally in
similar decks. They are not associated with any traditional playing cards.

37. THE NON-BINARY

I first saw a card like this in “Scrying Ink,” a deck created by artist Siolo Thompson,
and I loved it so much I wanted to incorporate it into my own. While gender and
sexuality are complex things that cannot be solely defined by "Male, Female, and
Non-Binary," this card may be used to represent a specific person who identifies
outside of the male-female binary. When it isn’t indicating a specific person, it may
represent the idea of thinking outside of the box, viewing things in a non-traditional
way, or seeing shades of gray rather than merely a black and white binary. It
cautions us to not cling to dogma or preconceived notions. I chose Pluto as the
illustration on this card, for the way in which Pluto is not a traditional planet, and to
tie this card to two others; “The Masculine,” and “The Feminine.” This card may also
represent concepts often associated with Pluto, such as transformation,
regeneration, rebirth, the subconscious, and distance.

Non-Binary Person, Gender-Fluidity, Thinking Outside the Box, Shades of Gray,

Pluto, Regeneration. Female
38. THE HOUR GLASS
I added this card to indicate the concept of time passing. While some cards in the
traditional Lenormand may reference periods of delay, waiting, or advancing quickly,
I wanted to add a card that merely indicated the passage and understanding of time.
It may appear to tell you that you are not quite ready for something and will need to
wait patiently, it may indicate that one is “biding their time,” stalling, waiting
something out. Paired with cards like The Mountain, it would indicate delays; with
The Letter, it may indicate waiting for a message; with The Garden, it could be
signaling that one is waiting for a social engagement; and so on. The Hourglass may
also represent the effects of time, and appear when you need to consider how the
passage of time has affected you.

Time, The Passage of Time, Patience, Stalling, Waiting, Biding One’s Time.
 e there are cards in the traditional Lenormand that refer to transformation (such
he Stork or The Coffin) these cards often seem to refer to grand metamorphosis
happens as a part of life whether you desire it or not. I created this card, The
dron, to refer to transformation and creation as a result of our own hard work.
Cauldron refers to our ability to take things, physical and otherwise, that already
and change them ourselves. It also refers to our creative power. It may appear
dicate that you have hard work to do on a creative project, or that you need to
hard to make beneficial changes in your life.

tive Power, Transformation, Alchemy, Adjustment, Experimentation, Hard Work,

ovement.

HE STORM
Storm is a card unique to this Lenormand deck, and it represents turbulence,
s being shaken up, or destroyed. It’s separate from The Mountain, which has to
th obstacles, because turbulence can be as advantageous as it can be a
ance. Oftentimes, our lives need a good shaking up. The Storm merely predicts
hings are about to become chaotic and tumultuous. Perhaps a relationship is
t to be shaken by something, or a job could become hectic. Remember that
are pros and cons to chaos. While it can feel negative to have one’s life stirred
here are often situations in which it may be favorable; secrets and deceptions
be dredged up and revealed, malicious leaders and institutions can be brought
n, and both good and bad change be wrought.

os, Turbulence, Shaking Up, Tearing Apart, Tearing Down, Destruction, Change,
ganization.

HE SCALES
her card unique to the Paper Oracle, “The Scales,” of course represents
nce. The Scales also represent the idea of weighing things out, and potentially
ng with different options available when making decisions. It may represent
ng harmony after a period of careful tempering. Paired with The Cross, the
es could indicate balance within one’s spiritual life, and suggest that they have
d peace in their spiritual duty. With The Heart, The Scales could indicate
nce in a relationship. With the Crossroad, you may being being advised to
der a path carefully instead of rushing in without thought. Scales are also a
bol of justice, and might appear to represent the idea of karma of fairness. Try
ng a card on either side of the Scales to help you see where you need to seek
alance.

nce, Trial and Error, Refinement, Harmony, Justice, Karma, Weighing, Decision-
ng.
 I wanted to to add this card to this deck to represent the concept of the unknown.
Try as we might to shine a light on the world, some things are meant to remain
hidden; and this card is a reminder of that. The Stranger represents mysteries, and
the concept of accepting that we cannot always discover everything. Things will
become unveiled to us when they need to be, but for now, this card may telling you
to let them lie. You may note an obvious connection between The Stranger and The
Familiar. The Stranger is in some ways a counterpart to the Familiar. It may
indicate someone or something that is hiding or lurking, be they friend or foe. It may
indicate a mysterious person, who keeps their feelings and motives a secret. The
cat on this card has a third eye on its forehead-- a reminder to trust your intuition.
When we cannot see everything that is before us, it does not necessarily mean that
we shouldn’t take any action at all. Usually, we can often rely on our instincts and
intuition to guide us, even in the dark.

The Unknown, Mysteries, Mysterious People, Actual Strangers, Trusting in Oneself.

43. THE WHEEL

The Wheel represents chance and fortune, but also the idea of fate, destiny, and
our connections to others.The Wheel is represented by a spinning, spool of thread
that may be either unraveling or winding up into itself. It is symbolic of the Fates,
and the threads our lives that they spin, measure, and cut. It is also representative
of “The Red Thread of Fate,” which creates invisible connections between people
who are destined to meet or influence one another's lives.

This card indicates that circumstances are often out of our control, and that
something unexpected may be about to happen. It may represent sudden changes
or opportunities, or may be advising us against taking risks, or encouraging us
embrace change. Depending on what cards appear with it, The Wheel may linking
two or more things. It is also closely tied to our relationships with others, and is a
reminder that everything is connected.
Consider using this card as a significator when trying to understand how people or
events are connected.

Chance, Fortune, Fate, Lack of Control, Risk, Sudden Change, Opportunity,

Unexpected Events, Connections.
 THE
ericmaille.com
Lenormand Deck
by Eric Maille

PAPER
ORACLE