Four symbols are common to all human history: the circle, the square, the center, and the cross…the X. X is the only letter in our alphabet which is used, alone, to convey meaning. It can indicate either the positive (the location of pirate treasure, the acceptance of a choice, the substitute for a signature) or the negative (delete, obliterate, cross out, no admittance or permission). X is shorthand for a kiss, or for rejection.

Two intersecting marks, / and \ , perhaps were originally the depiction two kindling sticks, rubbed together to make fire. Hence, X often represented fire itself, and later, with the rise of Western religion, for purification by fire. In the form of a cross, it symbolizes the tree of life, earthly suffering, and the possibility of eternal life. X stands for the crossroads, the place of making decisions, and so for Destiny, as well. It is the intersection, the meeting of opposites, the place where earthly and celestial forces may join, or find conflict.

Photos and text by Carol Nicklaus; X designed by Kathleen Sumpter.