
Can’t Decide on Your Next Doujinshi Theme? Use the "Tarot Two-Choice Spread" to Clear Your Creative Mind!
Hi there! I'm Aries Yoko, the fortune-telling manga artist. Are you enjoying your creative activities?
"For the next event, I want to release a serious book about Pairing A, but I also want to draw a parody book for Pairing B...!" "I love both so much, I can't choose just one!"
When you're active in creative work, there are times when your passion gets dispersed like this, and as a result, you can't get started on either... right?
It’s truly painful when your heart is undecided while the deadline is steadily approaching. In times like these, I recommend using the Tarot "Choice of Two" (Alternative) spread to peek into your "heart's satisfaction level" for each theme.
Visualizing Two Futures: The "Choice of Two" Spread
This divination method starts from your current situation and allows you to compare the "process" and "result" of choosing Path A versus Path B.
1. If You Choose Theme A (e.g., The serious book you've been cherishing):
- If "The Hermit" appears in the Process: It will likely be a lonely but fulfilling writing time where you face yourself deeply.
- If "The World" appears in the Result: Regardless of the number of copies sold, you should gain a sense of accomplishment that will become a lifelong treasure for you.
2. If You Choose Theme B (e.g., The happy gag book that's trending right now):
- If "Wheel of Fortune" appears in the Process: Your pen will move smoothly, and you'll likely enjoy drawing it to completion!
- If "Three of Cups" appears in the Result: It will be a book where you can get excited together with your readers and share many "Funs!"
Tips for Finding Your "True Feelings" from the Card Results
The important thing here is that the cards do not "decide" which one you should do. How you feel when you see the results is the ultimate answer.
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"Path A had better cards, but I felt disappointed when I saw Path B's result." ...If you feel that way, your true heart has already decided on B. That feeling of wanting to argue with the card—"Wait, really?"—is exactly where your passion lies.
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"Both look good, and I'm even more lost!" In that case, look at the cards for the "Process." The one that fits your current life rhythm and physical strength without overextending yourself might be the better choice for now.
The Gods of Creation Love It When You're Having Fun
If you choose a theme based on "because it's popular" or "out of obligation," your pen will inevitably feel heavy halfway through. Tarot is a tool that polishes the mirror at the bottom of your heart to show you, "This is what you want to draw from your soul right now."
If you absolutely cannot narrow it down to one, it's also an option to have the heart of "Temperance"—deciding to "give my all to Theme A this time, and save Theme B as a treat for next time."
In Closing
Having so many things you want to draw is proof of a wonderful talent—that rich stories are overflowing within you. The time spent hesitating is also an important process for deepening your love for the work. Draw a card and wait for the moment your heart jumps and says, "This is it!"
The Tarot cards are always cheering for the theme you choose to shine vividly on the blank manuscript. Now, pick up your pen and start your own story!
Want to Talk About Your Creative Struggles?
Relationship worries or keys to escaping a slump... Let the cards be a guidepost for your creative journey.
