Tarot

Small Million's song "Tarot" delves into the complexities of a relationship through the lens of mystical and esoteric imagery. The lyrics juxtapose tarot card reading and tea leaf reading as metaphors for the search for meaning and direction in a tumultuous relationship. The repeated line, "I'm reading tarot, baby, you're reading tea leaves," suggests that both partners are seeking answers and clarity, but are aware that these methods won't bring them the peace they desire. This highlights a sense of desperation and longing for a change in their fortunes, a common theme in relationships that are on shaky ground.

The song's reference to the Empress card in tarot, particularly the line "If I'm the empress, you're the empress upside-down," introduces a powerful metaphor. In tarot, the Empress card represents fertility, creation, and abundance, but when reversed, it can signify blockages, dependence, and a lack of growth. This contrast suggests a dynamic where one partner feels empowered and the other feels stifled or out of balance. The imagery of stringing a necklace and wrapping beads around the neck further symbolizes the intricate and sometimes suffocating nature of their bond.

The lyrics also touch on past memories and unresolved emotions, as seen in the lines, "I'm still thinking about the last time I saw you, the din of the dive bar, the look that you threw." This reflection on past interactions and the mention of tarot suits like cups, coins, and swords, which represent emotions, material aspects, and conflict respectively, adds depth to the narrative. The song captures the essence of a relationship fraught with tension, hope, and the search for signs that things might improve, encapsulating the human desire for understanding and resolution in love.