A young man with a rather petulant expression sits under a tree, in front of three Cups. A disembodied hand offers him another Cup, which he refuses to accept. His arms are crossed, a closed posture that might hint at his heart being closed – or protected.
This card is a Four; Fours often represent stability, but in excess that become stagnation. This person isn’t moving.
The scene seems to suggest that this person is being difficult, refusing to consider what is offered to him. This could be someone who expects too much from life, and is disappointed when reality gives him less than he imagined.
But it might also be that he simply has too much on his plate already, and isn’t in a good position to accept even more responsibility or workload. Or he’s already had enough of something – food, drink, love, etc. – and is now turning away offers of more.
One author (who I no longer remember) suggested that this young man was manifesting these Cups. He manifested three of them already, and is now manifesting a fourth. His expression isn’t pouty, but rather one of concentration. I don’t agree with this interpretation, but it shows how varied the interpretation of these cards can be.
Keywords: Dissatisfaction. Rejecting what’s on offer. Declining excessive demands.