Tarot Woman

Rainbow's 'Tarot Woman' is a captivating exploration of mysticism, fate, and the unknown. The song opens with a sense of hesitation and foreboding, as the narrator feels an internal conflict about embarking on a journey. The 'traces in the sand' and 'lines that set my hand' suggest a predestined path, possibly revealed through tarot cards, which are known for their use in divination and fortune-telling. This sets the stage for a narrative filled with caution and intrigue.

The repeated warnings to 'beware of a place' and the 'smile of a bright shining face' hint at the deceptive allure of the Tarot Woman. She represents a figure who can guide the narrator to a magical, almost fairytale-like realm, symbolized by the 'entrance to the fair' and the 'carousel.' These images evoke a sense of wonder and enchantment but are also tinged with danger. The Tarot Woman's love is described as a knife that can 'carve away your life,' emphasizing the peril that comes with her mystical allure.

Throughout the song, the narrator's uncertainty is palpable, captured in the repeated refrain 'I don't know.' This uncertainty underscores the theme of the unknown and the fear of what lies ahead. The Tarot Woman embodies both the temptation of exploring the mystical and the inherent risks involved. Rainbow, known for their blend of hard rock and fantasy themes, uses this song to delve into the complexities of fate and the human desire to understand and control it, even when it comes with significant risks.