I’ve written about a plethora of topics over the years, but metaphysical, occult, and spiritual writing is a more specific authorship path. Only you can decide if it feels right for you. In case you aren’t sure, here’s how to branch into metaphysical writing, and why it can be fulfilling.

Understanding belief systems in writing

There’s a Venn-diagram crossing paganism, naturism, wicca, the occult, and metaphysical topics like crystals or tarot. Spirituality (paganism) isn’t akin to wicca (religion), or metaphysical topics that do not require a religious basis. There’s a lot to sift through and a lot to respect.

I’ve interviewed the Tarot Museum (Gifts for Mystics), but also wrote about the Holy Bible translated into Zulu for The South African in 2023.

The point is to achieve careful balance and write respectfully. If you don’t share an opinion, cover the topic without bias, and document with resources, like you would any subject you land as a writer.

Interviewing the cream of the crop

Interviews sell, especially when they’re topical (for new book or tarot deck releases) or with key figures considered experts. I’ve interviewed pagan founding father and eccentric Oberon-Zell Ravenheart (Gifts for Mystics). I also interviewed founding figure Raymond Buckland (Penton Press), as one of the last interviews before his passing.

If there’s someone you’d like to interview, pursue them – even if the story doesn’t have a right-now buyer yet. You might land a pitch to a publication because you already have the contact.

Studying tarot personally

Tarot is a direction that takes study and practice. I’m very proud of the Tarot Museum interview.  I’ve written about the subject several times for other markets as well, like Gifts for Card Players.

Use a resource like LearnTarot or Alison.com to know meanings, readings, and more. Read your own cards or even practice giving readings for friends.

I’ve never had a knack for astrology but enjoyed tarot reading enough to make it a brief side-hustle. Tarot can be a great way to steer fictional characters, believe it or not. (Google “tarot for writers.”)

Websites like Tarot.com and Biddy allow readers to list their services. Facebook groups (like the Tarot Marketplace) are another way to meet tarot enthusiasts. I’ve even picked up a reading or two through Fiverr before. There are also Tarot Associations, with room for fans and readers.

I’ve also written about this for The Penny Hoarder. Your experience becomes fodder for your stories.

Conferences and events

Conferences help you connect with other metaphysical authors. At the same time, you’ll meet bloggers, website owners, tarot readers, and others who offer their services. Conferences and events like the Mystical Minds Convention, Staarcon, and the UK Tarot Conference are a wonderful way to view the industry in one spot.

For writers, it’s a good opportunity to market. Speak to the organizers and present a talk, share your own resources, or give readings. Distance isn’t a barrier. Some conferences welcome virtual visitors, too.

Editing, proofreading and other jobs in this vein

You’ll also find jobs like editing and proofreading as a metaphysical author. It’s about your knowledge as a language professional, together with your experience in the topic – whether it’s tarot or Garnerian Wicca. Sell yourself as an editor or writer – with your extra skills as a plus that makes you perfect for this job, publication, or pitch. Build a relevant portfolio.

Metaphysical fiction

Metaphysical topics and related ones can also become foundations for fiction. Studying tarot, astrology, and mysticism as a non-believer can still be fascinating – and still be room to write. I’ve loved authors for doing their historical, metaphysical research right.

Scenes with tarot, for example, where you can tell the author researched their behind off, energize the reader (and the editor considering the writing). Justin Gustainis has a background in bodyguarding and defence, but the author sure gets his tarot scenes on point – and as a fellow author, I love this.

I’ve used many metaphysical and occult topics in fiction, and written about it for a ReFiction piece that outlines how metaphysical topics can become stories.

Bio: Alex J. Coyne is a gonzo journalist, writer, and proofreader. Sometimes, he is joined by his cowriters. His features have been published in a wide array of international publications, like People Magazine, The Citizen, Caribbean Compass, and Writers Write.