i. Templum
Having spilled spells
over wine-slick lips,
the skies divide.
The augur marks
the passing of each
avian pilgrim.
From their cries
and their avenue,
he draws
portentous omens.
ii. Chiromancy
Tracing lines,
caressing each fold of skin:
swellings, valleys and plains.
Their mechanical arrangement
render predictive enlightenment.
Destiny lies in the palm of the hand.
iii. Arcana
Seventy-eight cards
combined, divided, arranged.
The interpretations are endless:
initiatory, magical, Cabalistic.
The clairvoyant defines,
reveals affirmation,
provides synthesis.
Between Meaning and Chance:
Finding significance in the tarot,
We gain an insight into ourselves.
Lee Clark Zumpe, an entertainment editor and movie reviewer with Tampa Bay Newspapers, earned his degree in English at the University of South Florida. His poetry and short stories have appeared various publications, such as Tiferet, Zillah, Weird Tales, Modern Drunkard Magazine, and Main Street Rag. Lee lives in Florida with his wife and daughter.