The Clouds
Clouds · No. 6 · Playing card ♣K · Confusion, doubt, gloom
The card
A bank of cloud crosses the card, bright on one side and dark on the other. Direction matters here: whoever the bright side faces has the clearer view.
Traditional meaning
Traditionally the Clouds are confusion and uncertainty, and also temporary trouble. It is one of the few cards whose orientation is read.
How to read it
The Clouds are not disaster; they are "you cannot see clearly". Information is incomplete, the other person’s position is unclear, or you are unsure yourself. Note which way the bright and dark sides face: the bright side is the clearer party, the dark side still has something hidden.
In context
Love
The other person is wavering, or something in the relationship has not been said.
Work
Direction unclear, not enough to decide on. This is not the moment to commit.
Timing
Uncertain — until the cloud passes. Usually days to weeks.
Common combinations
- The Clouds + The Rider · Muddled news, or news that itself causes confusion
- The Clouds + The Book · Something concealed, a secret not yet opened
- The Clouds + The Sun · The cloud breaks and matters turn clear
- The Clouds + The Heart · The unclear part of a relationship; the other person is undecided
- The Clouds + The Fish · Accounts unclear, finances hard to see into
- The Clouds + The Crossroads · The options are unclear; not enough to judge on
- The Clouds + The Snake · There really is someone working an angle behind the doubt
- The Clouds + The Key · A clear solution emerging from the fog
- The Clouds + The Mountain · Cannot see the way, and cannot get through either
- The Clouds + The Moon · Reputation under discussion, or low spirits