Pamela Coleman Smith, 1909. Courtesy Holly Voley

A lone figure stands at the edge of a cliff, looking out over vast waters. Three staffs are planted firmly in the ground behind them. Ships sail in the distance, carrying possibilities across the sea. Everything speaks of anticipation, adventure, and the courage to venture into the unknown.

What It Means For Writers

The Three of Wands embodies exploration, foresight, and leadership. It’s about taking those first bold steps into expansion after planning and preparation. This isn’t just dreaming—it’s active anticipation with the confidence to move forward.

For writers, it suggests exploring:

• Characters at crucial turning points
• The moment of embarking on a journey
• Leadership and taking initiative
• Long-term vision and planning
• The excitement of seeing first results
• Trust in future outcomes

Inspiration in Action

Consider Maya, a young captain about to lead her first deep-space expedition. She stands in the observation deck, watching her crew make final preparations. The Three of Wands moment isn’t just about being in charge—it’s that quiet dawn when she sees supply ships approaching her vessel, feels the hum of engines beginning their warm-up sequence, and realizes: Everything she’s trained for starts now. The future stretches before her like an endless starfield.

Your Turn!

Write about that pivotal moment when your character stands on the threshold of something bigger than themselves. What do they see on their horizon? What have they set in motion that’s just beginning to bear fruit?

Share your Three of Wands inspired writing in the comments! What adventures and possibilities will your characters discover today?