This spread was created to provide an overview of a story, a bird’s-eye view of the story.
The layout is done as a 3-card by 3-card spread. This is similar to a small spread in Lenormand readings, so we’ll be adding some additional steps to this reading.
The rows are, from the bottom to the top,
- The Meta Elements, or the big-picture forces that shape the story
- The Character Roles, or the key people surrounding the main character
- Story Conflict Points, or the things that the main character has to deal with in the story
The Story Stones Spread (9 Cards)
- Theme – The overarching idea, message, or atmosphere of the story.
- Stakes – What’s at risk; why the story matters.
- Hallelujah Moment (Inspiration for True Change) – The realization or spark that drives transformation.
- Mentor – The guiding influence or source of wisdom.
- Villain – The antagonist, opposition, or force working against the protagonist.
- Trusted Friend (Sidekick/Love Interest) – The ally who supports the protagonist.
- Call to Action – The event or challenge that launches the story.
- Obstacle – The main challenge in the path.
- Complication – The thing that makes the obstacle worse or escalates the tension.
Now comes the fun part. In Lenormand, these cards are read as rows, but also as columns and on the diagonals. There is also ‘knighting’, in which one card is linked to a card that is three cards up and one to the right or left. It is reminiscent of the move that a knight makes in chess.