When it’s about feelings in love and relationships, The Emperor arrives to remind us that…
We are in control – if we want to be. There’s strength and clear-headedness in us, even if we consider ourselves as emotional. We deserve mutual respect in our relationships and The Emperor reminds us that in order to have fulfilling connections, we have to set clear boundaries and express what we want.
What are their feelings? The Emperor upright
New Connections and crushes
This person may very well like you a lot, but they’re focused on keeping it together and providing structure. The Emperor represents father energy, but that doesn’t mean romantic feelings aren’t part of the connection. It simply shows that this person is used to being seen as a leader and expressing emotions openly may not come naturally to them. They carry a warm sense of protection and a desire to provide for you. They may want to take control of the situation, appearing respectable and strong. This crush might just need more time to fully open up.
committed relationships
In a long-term bond, the Emperor shows someone who wants to build something lasting and dependable. They take their role seriously, offering loyalty, protection and a clear structure for the relationship. Emotional expression may not be their strongest suit, but their steadiness often speaks louder than words. If times have been challenging, they’re the type to tighten their grip on stability, trying to hold things together and shield you from chaos. At their core, they want to be the provider and protector, but may need gentle space to soften and let their feelings show more freely.
Exes & old flames
When it comes to an ex, the Emperor often points to someone who still wants to appear composed and in control, even if emotions linger beneath the surface. They may look back on the relationship with a sense of duty or responsibility rather than open sentiment, preferring to frame things around what was “practical” or “necessary.” If feelings remain, they’re likely kept tightly managed, expressed through guarded respect rather than vulnerability. This person may want to show they’re strong on their own, but part of them could still carry a quiet protectiveness toward you.
What are their feelings? The Emperor reversed
Here are some of the traditional interpretations of The Emperor in love and relationships when it shows up reversed:
- there’s a blocked or distorted expression of authority and stability
- they are overly rigid, controlling, or domineering in their behavior
- they avoid responsibility or struggle to provide structure
- Warnings of manipulation, power struggles, or unwillingness to be vulnerable
- Need to rediscover how to create safety and stability without using control as a shield
On a positive note, The Emperor reversed can suggest:
- there’s potential softening – they’re learning to let go of control and allow more equality
- there’s a realization that forcing things doesn’t create true security
- they are learning a deeper life lesson: balancing strength with flexibility
Did you know that many professional tarot readers choose to not work with reversed cards? And you don’t have to either! Read my article about “Why I (almost) never read reversed cards” here.
There is absolutely no right or wrong way of going about this, and including reversed cards in your readings can absolutely make sense. However, especially if you’re just starting out, know that many well established tarot professionals don’t feel the need to include them or assign special meaning to them.
