May and Fae: Decks for Beltane by Beth Allen

“It’s May, it’s May, the lusty month of May, that lovely month when everyone goes blissfully astray … “

 

While the word “May“ lends itself easily to rhyme, that’s certainly not the only reason it’s popular as a lyrical theme, and Lerner and Loewe aren’t the only songwriters who’ve been inspired by the flirtation, the frivolity, and the tickling of the fancy found during this lusty month.

 

May, and specifically Beltane, is a time when poetry, song, and dance flow like ice melting on a sunny day.

 

However, based on its history, joyous holiday revelry isn’t for everyone.

Maypole celebrations were banned in the U.S. in the 17th century because Puritans disapproved (what a surprise). And the governor of Plymouth Colony at the time, William Bradford, called Beltane celebrations “the beastly practices of the mad Bacchinalians.”

Luckily, May energy is irrepressible. Besides Bacchus and maypoles, floral wreaths, goats, bees, lavender, and hawthorn blossoms also abound this month.

 

As small signs of life come out amid budding sprigs and sprouts, Beltane is an ideal time to work with the fae, or with fae energy, depending on how you view it.

 

In her book “Seeking Faery,” author Emily Carding writes, “Beltane, like its opposite date on the calendar, Samhain, is a most potent time for Faery work.”

Below are a few deck suggestions to help you make that connection, whether you’re outdoors in a garden, in the woods, or indoors sipping tea:

 

1. Sisters of the Fae Oracle by Ashley Frost, art by Leah Shoman.

This is a beautifully illustrated deck of 33 cards with a Victorian art style and a Cottingley Fairies vibe. The fae in this deck are gentle and comforting. The guidebook states the deck was created with inner child healing in mind. I like to draw a card at night before I go to sleep. The old-fashioned images, along with a sweet verse, are peaceful and relaxing.

 

2. Seasons of the Witch Beltane Oracle by Lorriane Anderson and Juliet Diaz, illustrated by Giada Rose.

You can’t go wrong with any of the Seasons of the Witch Oracles. They focus on the traditions, food, herbs, activities, flowers, crystals, and intentions associated with each of the eight sabbats. This 44-card deck is designed to be both a tool to learn about Beltane and be included in your holiday practice and observance.

 

3. Faerie Tarot by Nathalie Hertz.

This is a charming deck that depicts the fae as Nature’s stalwart allies. The illustrations show the fae as an integral part of Nature, interacting and controlling aspects of their environment. This is a good deck for people who want to work with a more powerful — rebellious — fae energy. The deck follows RWS and is a solid reader throughout the year, not just at Beltane.

 

4. Tarot of the Sidhe by Emily Carding.

Illustrated in a traditional Celtic style, Carding says she was inspired to create this deck and was guided through the process directly by the fae. Through Carding’s relationship with them, their wisdom and willingness to communicate come through in her art and in her writing. This deck presents the world of the fae as mysterious, yet accessible and inviting.

 

5. Shadowscapes Tarot by Stephanie Pui-Mun Law and Barbara Moore. Beautiful as a spring day, with a nod to the four elements in each suit, it’s no wonder this deck is a perennial favorite. Each card radiates delicate light while balancing a bold heart in Law’s fantasy, watercolor images. The magical landscapes and inhabitants offer readers creativity and inspiration. It’s delightful, engaging, challenging, and honest all at once, reflecting the spirit and nature of the fae themselves.

 

Whichever deck comes out to play, make merry throughout the month of May!