“As with all court cards, they can represent both others in our lives and (especially) aspects of ourselves that we’re being encouraged to explore and call upon,” she explains. This queen, and the suit of swords in general, is associated with the air signs (which are Gemini, Libra, and Aquarius), making the Queen of Swords a figure who is tapped into their intellect and the knowledge they’ve garnered from experience and observation. At the same time, Vanderveldt adds, the Queen of Swords possesses a strong sense of “just knowing.” “[This card] is deliberate and decisive, with a razor-sharp sense of humor,” she says. “This [card] can be a great support when having discussions about the terms and conditions of a relationship, or communicating your desires and needs,” she tells mbg. Whether you need to renegotiate boundaries, have more alone time, or ask for a stronger commitment, this Queen is encouraging you to speak up. In short, pulling the card is a sign that it’s time to get clear on what you truly need, Vanderveldt says, and go from there. She adds that while this queen card may not be the easiest or warmest of the deck to work with, she is incredibly smart, and you would likely benefit from leaning into that energy. “This might be a call to review your finances, make a budget or a financial plan, and start setting up practical systems of support that will help you achieve your dreams—like perhaps working for yourself,” Vanderveldt notes, adding that this queen card loves to fly solo. “Tap into your clear knowing, or claircognizance, to help you make a call,” she suggests. “Beware of anything that you’d describe as ‘good on paper’—this queen knows when something is off, even slightly,” she adds. When pulled upright, “Use their biting wit for humor, not for hurt. And remember, make space and time to enjoy yourself,” she suggests. “While it might be a defense mechanism that helped you cope and kept you safe many moons ago, it could be eroding your sense of confidence and purpose now. Radical honesty with yourself is needed,” she says.
