BLA, BLA, BLA DA KEKA

Interpreting the Birth Chart

Most astrologers start their journey into interpretation by working on their own charts, then those of their partners, children and friends. However, it is very difficult indeed to be objective and impartial about oneself, one’s partners and one’s children. As we have already suggested, you will get far more out of this book, and far further along the road to becoming a truly competent astrologer, if you work with a friend. If you are doing this already, and studying the calculation process together, you will probably have resolved problems which might have been rather more difficult if you were working alone. Now you should work on your friend’s chart and they on yours, before moving on to the charts of each other’s partner and children.

There is something else to be gained from this process; you will at once begin to feel what it is like to work with, and indeed for, other people - and this will help you to avoid becoming introspective, which is a real danger with student, and indeed some advanced, astrologers.

Surprising characteristics

As you work systematically through the indications, a characteristic may crop up again and again, in different areas of the chart, which you cannot believe applies to your subject. It just seems wrong. The chances are that when you question your subject, they will accept that characteristic as accurate (maybe reluctantly!), so don’t ignore such an indication. (This is another reason why it is as well not to get bogged down in a study of your own chart - if an unpleasant characteristic is suggested, you may ignore it rather than discover how to counter it!)

Interpretations arc built; like an architect, you have to apply basic rules of construction. There are plans (the charts). There are walls and floors (the Sun, Moon and rising signs). There arc windows to let in the light, and buttresses (helpful planets). There are dark passages (difficult planets). Most important, there are stresses and strains, revealed by the difficult aspects; and supports, represented by constructive aspects. And we must not forget the foundations, as shown by the anchorages - of which there arc many.

Your first interpretations will be small constructions - like a simple shed. It will take time to build a cathedral or palace, but with patience and care, you will eventually do so.

Beginning Your Interpretation

Keywords

Interpretation is built up in several stages. A convenient and helpful start is to learn a system of basic keywords. These give you a short, instant appreciation of the influence of every planet in each of the signs and houses. In their respective sections you will find the keywords for each house (see pp.38-41), Sun sign (see pp.80-127) and planet (sec pp.30-1), which you should always use in the following way.

How to use the keywords

Make a list of the following:

a. The Ascendant sign (this always relates to the first house).
b. The Sun’s sign and house position.
c. The Moon’s sign and house position.
d. The ruling planet’s sign and house position.
e. List all the other planets in the same wav: i.c. Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune, Pluto. One of these, or the Sun or Moon, will be the ruling planet.

Writing keyword interpretations

Now refer to the keywords for each planet, house and sign, and construct simple sentences using them. For example, Sun in Cancer in the seventh house: “You will express yourself (Sun) very protectively and sensitively (Cancer) towards your partners (seventh house)”; or Mercury in Scorpio in the fifth house: “Your need to communicate (Mercury) will be intensively and passionately (Scorpio) expressed through creative work or the concerns and interests of children (fifth house)”.

When you are writing a keyword interpretation of the Midheaven sign remember that the positive keywords indicate the area of life with which the subject will most strongly identify. For example, to someone with a Libran Mid heaven you could say: “You will identify with all that is harmonious”. Such statements are, of course, very bland and general, and a long way from any in-depth interpretation, but you will find them fun, and they are revealing. List them carefully, since they will have to be used again, later on in your interpretation.The Elements or Qualities The next step is to list how many planets there are in fire, earth, air and water signs (see p.33), and the relative elements of the Ascendant and Midheaven. These add a further basic keyword interpretation level. If there is a preponderance of one element, it will add another dimension to your subject’s personality.

The keywords for the elements are:

♦ Fire - enthusiasm.
♦ Earth - stability' and practicality'.
♦ Air-intellectuality'.
♦ Water - sensitivity and intuition.

In many cases the planets are fairly evenly distributed among the elements, but one element often emerges as a leader, and this will add another dimension to your interpretation. For instance, perhaps you will find several indications elsewhere in the chart that your subject is enthusiastic: a number of planets in fire signs will definitely

support this. Or perhaps you will discover that your subject is very sensible and down-to-earth: planets in earth signs will suppport this inclination. However, sometimes the planets’ positions and aspects reveal someone who is not terribly sensible - perhaps a bit of a dreamer. Here a couple of planets in earth signs will help counter this tendency' and give stability.

The Qualities or Quadruplicities

The same approach to interpretation applies here.

The keywords for the qualities are:

♦ Cardinal- outgoing.

♦ Fixed - inflexible.

♦ Mutable - adaptable.

We feel that this grouping is often rather less revealing than the elements. Try not to allow the strong characteristics they suggest overinfluence you in your interpretation.

4

Positive and Negative Signs The next stage in interpretation is to work out whether planets, the Ascendant and Midheaven are in positive or negative signs. This grouping will suggest, even if rather tentatively, that your subject will veer towards extroversion (the positive signs) or introversion (the negative signs). But be careful not to base your conclusions about your subject on this evidence alone: you will find that the in-depth interpretation will be far more revealing. Again, it is more sensible to treat this grouping as a supportive factor.

The Strengths of the Planets

Now is the time in your interpretation to study the chart which shows ruler- ships of the signs (see p.35). Make a point of noting which planets shine most brightly in the chart you are interpreting - these are the personalized planets - and keep them in mind all the time you are working.

6 More Points to Remember A birth chart will reveal certain aspects of the subject’s:

♦ Motivation.

♦ Potential.

♦ Energy level - physical, emotional and nervous.

♦ Response - to all situations.

As you make your notes on the chart you will soon see which areas are emphasized by which planets’ positions and their aspects. It is very easy, when one is learning to interpret, to group the characteristics of the Ascendant, Sun and Moon signs together. However, we are a combination not only ofthese three, but of all twelve signs. Think about these three signs in their very distinct ways, right from the start.

The Ascendant

The Ascendant represents our real self - known to family and close friends.

The Sun

The Sun represents the face we present to the world - our image. We express ourselves in the manner of the Sun.

The Moon

The Moon represents the way in which we react and respond to situations, and our instinctive level.

You may meet astrologers who believe that the Ascendant represents our outward expression, and the Sun sign characteristics are only revealed to our intimates. We totally disagree! This may have been the case in the past, but since Sun sign astrology became popular in the late 1920s, most people today have at least some basic knowledge of their Sun sign characteristics and tend, whether consciously or unconciouslv, to match their behavior to them, especially in their choice of clothes and general image.

Recognizing Sun sign traits

You can check this theory: talk to your friend about a mutual acquaintance on whose chart you have worked, alone. Mention some of the subject’s Ascendant characteristics, and some of their Sun sign characteristics. Unless the subject is intimately known to your friend, you may find that they will only totally recognize those traits that are attributed to the Sun sign.

The houses

Don’t forget that a planet in the first house is a strong focal point; remember, too, that if it is within 8° (or 10° at most) of the Ascendant degree it also makes a powerful conjunction to the Ascendant. You should study the relevant planet in that sign with particular care.

Do not be confused by those houses in a chart with no planets placed in them. This doesn’t necessarily mean that there is litde or no concern or interest in the affairs of that “empty” house. Look to the sign on the cusp of the house (that is, the sign where the house stans) and the planet that rules that sign. From this you will be able to get some idea of your subject’s attitude to the affairs of untenanted houses. You may then discover that there will be other emphases of a similar nature relating to the concerns of these houses, revealed quite independently by aspects.

Contradictory indications

.As you work your way through each clement of the chan and begin to construct your analysis, you may well find contradictor)’ indications emerging. If so, consider which group of indications is the stronger - decide

whether personal planets influence one of the characteristics. If this is the case, there is a good chance that this trait will dominate. But if the contrasting indications are both supported by personal planets, remember that no one is the single person he or she may appear to be. We are all several people; we react differently to different people, in different ways and in different situations. At work we may be one sort

of person; we may be quite another at home with our loved ones. Do not be afraid of these contradictions. Be bold. You may be accused of being vague and inconclusive, but people are complex. Remember the words of the US poet, Walt Whitman:

“Do I contradict myself?

Very' well then I contradict myself (I am large, I contain multitudes).”

You are now ready- to begin to construct your analysis. First, make your index chart (see p.134), to assist you yvhen you begin to yy-rite your analysis.

Noyv look up each element of your subject’s birth chart, to see what all the individual indications actually mean. This is the order you should folloyv:

1. Type of chart (i.e. bucket, etc).
2. The dominating triplicity (there may be two).
3. The dominating quality (there may be two).
4. Planets in positive and negative signs (there arc usually more in one than the other), including Ascendant.
5. The characteristics of the Ascendant sign.
6. If there is a planet conjunct the Ascendant from the first or twelfth house consider this next, its house position influence and the aspects it makes. This placing will definitely color the personality- and the characteristics of the Ascendant sign, acting as a kind of overlaying influence.
7. The Sun sign, its house position and aspects.
8. The Moon sign, its house position and aspects.
9. The ruling planet, its sign, house position and aspects. (You may have already listed some of the latter if the Sun or Moon makes aspects to it: such aspects yvill be very- important.)
10. The influence of the sign on the Midheaven and its house position. (If you use the Placidus house system, this will always be the tenth house cusp, but it can vary- considerably with the Equal House system.) Here you should also list any planet making a conjunction to the Midheaven.
11. The Mercury- sign, its house position and aspects.12. The Venus sign, its house position and aspects.
13. The Mars sign, its house position and aspects.
14. The Jupiter sign, its house position and aspects.
15. The Saturn sign, its house position and aspects.
16. The Uranus sign, its house position and aspects.
17. The Neptune sign, its house position and aspects.
18. The Pluto sign, its house position and aspects. (These will only be to the .Ascendant and Midheaven, of course, since all other aspects to Pluto will already have been listed.)

Now look again to see what type of chart you are working on. As this is your first note, and will be written on page one of your notes (which will make quite a bundle by the time you reach Pluto!) take your index chart and write the number “1” in the narrowmargin and “1” under the wider margin (not forgetting of course also to put a “1” on your written notes, and at the top of your first sheet of paper). What you discover about the chart type may relate to psychological motivation or characteristics.

Next look up the influence of the tripiicities. This will be your second note, but (unless you have written reams about the type of chart or have very large handwriting), it will still be on page one of your notes. Again what you discover will probably come under the psychoiogical/characteristics heading. Do the same for the qualities and the positive and negative signs.

The basic interpretation

Soon you will be referring to the main body of basic interpretation. First, follow through the interpretations of the Ascendant, then work through the others as listed above. You should not expect to rewrite everything you discover there, of course, but do make reasonably detailed notes. The way the book is arranged will help you to be careful and systematic; we teach you from the start to consider even- planet, its sign and house position and, mostimportant, the influence of the aspects in turn. (While working on the birth chart do not include the influence of the progressed planets’ positions and aspects in your interpretation. These interpretations come later.)

By the time you have done all this you will have everything you need to construct your analysis. While making your notes don’t hesitate to add your own thoughts about what you arc discovering: “Possibly”, “Wouldn’t have thought so”, “Spot on”, “Can’t be true”, and so on. Some elements of the chart will refer to more than one section; if this is the case, list them in your index under each heading, duplicating or even triplicating information wherever necessary.

Assembling the information

Now you must put all these individual dements together. Refer to the keyword lists, and from those make a basic - probably very stilted - sentence about each planet, sign and house position. These sentences are the bare bones of your interpretation. Don’t worry' how artificial or stilted your sentences seem; they will help you to understand the basic character and motivation of your subject. Now, basing your interpretation on these simple statements and referring to all the various indications, correlate the information gleaned from the rest of your extensive notes.

A systematic approach Again, be very systematic. First put together all your findings relating to the psvchological/characteristic column of your index. Then move on to mind, intellect and emotion, and so on, until you have synthesized all your notes from all the respective headings. You should by then have a pretty- concise picture of your subject, ready for them to read before you get together and go through it in detail to see how accurate you have been.

Remember that you may not write much at first. Don’t worn.-; you will get more out of the chart as you progress. Flowever, the more thorough you are with your note-taking and the use of our extensive interpretations, the more detailed your report will be, no matter how inexperienced you are.

It is patience and care that really count.Ascendant Cancer

5. Psy/Char: strong self-defensive system. Brave, determined. May tend to hoard. Will want to explore own personality and motivation. Outgoing, and (because of Aries Sun) positive.
6. M/I/E: sensitive, easily hurt, worries, perhaps takes evasive action. Strong imagination. Instinctive, but Moon in Gemini adds logic. Mood changes. Emotional (supported by Aries Sun; mitigated by Gemini Moon).
7. Relationships: caring, loving; mood changes can be damaging. Will defend loved ones. Watch for coldness towards partner, who may be older, more socially advanced, since Capricorn on cusp of seventh; but a romantic streak present. May be easily offended.
8. Health: recommend steady, rhythmical exercise: swimming, dancing. Digestive problems due to worry. Needs diet rich in fish and dairy products, provided cholesterol intake is controlled. Perhaps sensitive skin.
9. Family: will be close to parents,

; would make excellent parent. Maybe

lack here, for strong Venus in Aquarius is dominating, and he is unattached.

10. Leisure/Travel: suggest forming interesting collection of unusual

| artifacts. Travelling can spark off worry; will find being by water restorative - sailing? Could be good at cooking.

□ Sun sign: Aries in Ninth House

Keyword sentence: “You will express yourself assertively and forthrightly | when confronted with a challenge.”

As Sun is within first 10° of the sign, the characteristics will be strong.

11. Psy/Char: straightforward, uncomplicated? Overquick reactions (supported by Cancer and Gemini Moon). Selfish? Hasty, assertive. Enthusiastic. Temper?
12. Relationships: strong sex drive, passionate. Will enjoy love life.
13. Health: needs plenty of exercise. Possible accidents due to carelessness. Headaches. Must avoid spicy food.
14. Career/Ambition: ambitious, will want to win, needs freedom of expression and to be stimulated by challenge; achievement is important. Good head for business, supported by Ascendant and Gemini Moon. Enterprising.
15. M/I/E: quick-thinking, decisive, impatient, emotional (fire sign).
16. Family: would make lively, enthusiastic parent.
17. Leisure/Travel: will cope well with change. Encourage development of new interests as retirement approaches.

El Sun in Ninth House

18. Psy/Char: an idealistic and philosophical outlook. Will do well living abroad. Emphasis on long-distance communications, the media; good dream recall; can be inspired.

El Sun Semi-Square Venus

A powerful aspect, due to Venus being strongly placed.

19. Relationships: Breakdown in relationships. Kenneth has no permanent partner. Difficulties here.

@ Sun Sextile Uranus

20. Psy/Char: originality and independence, alertness, powers of leadership (complementing Aries).
21. Relationships: sexual attraction, charm, popularity, personal magnetism.

0 Sun Opposition Neptune

22. Psy/Char: tendency to deceive, to take easy way out of difficult situations (which will weaken his character); negative escapism; danger of falling back on drugs/drink under stress.

13 Sun Trine Pluto

Powerful aspect as Pluto in first house, though different sign from Ascendant.

23. Psy/Char: ability for self-analysis; strong need to explore in-depth subjects of interest; talent for research.
24. Career/Ambition: will make advantageous changes in life resulting in psychological development.

D Moon (chart ruler) in Gemini in the Eleventh House

Keyword sentence: “When dealing with other people and your objectives, you will respond to situations in a instinctively communicative way.”

25. M/I/E: quick verbal response to all situations; verbose, versatile, will argue and rationalize. Conflict between emotion and logic; may not trust emotions but will speak up. A chatterbox. Must use resources of nervous energy positively.
26. Psy/Char: impatient, may need to develop stability and calm.
27. Health: strain and tension can build up, resulting in digestive problems; lungs vulnerable, so discourage smoking (smokes heavily). Will worry.

H Moon in Eleventh House

28. Relationships: a tendency to rely on friends and acquaintances too much, to lean on “the group”. Must develop ability to be independent (Sun in Aries, Venus in Aquarius will help). Must always take independent action. Is a private person; may be difficult to get close to? (Cancer Ascendant may mitigate). Will want to be loved.

H Moon Square Mercury

An important aspect, since Moon in Mercury sign.

29. M/I/E: sharpness of response, critical acumen, heightened intellectual power. Liking for gossip.
30. Health: possible digestive problem. D Moon Trine Venus
31. Relationships: adds charm, warmth, affection.
32. Psy/Char: a liking for good living.
33. M/I/E: adds intuition, optimism, good perception.

D Moon Conjunct Mars

This is a key aspect since it links the chart ruler, the Moon, with the Sun ruler, Mars.

34. M/l/E: increases emotional level, quickens responses to all situations, adds direct approach. Will take emotional and physical risks. Could be reckless.

D Moon Conjunct Jupiter

35. Relationships: adds kindness and softens attitude towards other people; generosity. Satisfaction from encouraging others. Good judge of people.

9 Moon Square Midheaven

36. Career/Ambition: difficulty in finding real satisfaction in career, even discovering what is really wanted out of life. (While Kenneth knew what he wanted, he has had trouble achieving it.)

C3 The Influence

of the Midheaven Sign, Pisces

There will be identification with the best Piscean aspirations, but also a tendency to be vague or overidealistic about aims and objectives; this might cloud important issues, in spite of Arian directness and Cancerian shrewdness. Kenneth may be a dreamer - though not liking to think of himself as such!

Notf.

In this chart no planet makes a conjunction to the Midheaven, though Mercury is extremely near (less than 1° outside orb - if the birth had been a few minutes later it would have been in conjunction). The Gcminian influence means that Mercury’s influence is

therefore quite strong, adding a need for psychological involvement in the career (Mercury rules the Moon, Mars and Jupiter signs.) Tlte communications areas of Kenneth’s career are nicely emphasized by Mercury’s placing near the Midheaven.

B Mercury in Pisces, with Sun sign Aries

Keyword sentence: “You could be easily impressed by moneymaking schemes; beware deception.”

37. Psy/Char: Arian assertiveness is softened. Forgetfulness can cause problems. Less decisive than most Aries Sun sign types. May take line of least resistance. Deceit possible.
38. M/I/E: worn', emotional level and intuition increased, but less likely to be angered. Adds kindness.

B Mercury

in the Eighth House

39. M/I/E: tendency to brood ox er serious matters; often psychic gifts(supported here by Cancer Ascendant, Sun opposition Neptune); care very necessary in development of these. Increased imagination and intuition. Possible preoccupation xxith sex.
40. Career/Ambition: Shrewdness in investment, but because Pisces is Mercury sign could be gullible.

Q Mercury Square Mars

41. M/I/E: quick-thinking, sharp- tongued; tendency to backbite and to be irritable. May make overhastv decisions.

B Mercury Square Jupiter

42. M/I/E: good intellect; absent- minded; sceptical. Care needed when signing documents; may ignore details.

43. Health: possible digestive problems. El Venus in Aquarius

IXTERPRKTIN'G THE BIRTH CHART • 1 37

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44. Relationships: contributes movie-star glamor; an independent attitude towards love life. Partnership desired - but perhaps not a partner. Committed, will nevertheless be romantic, idealistic and faithful. Kind and helpful.

El Venus in Eighth House

45. Relationships: heightens the feelings and passions; needs to beware of jealousy (Venus sign will mitigate). Sex life should be rich and rewarding, but Venus squares Saturn so there could be some cramping and inhibitive factors.
46. Career/Ambition: a good placing for finance and inheritance (perhaps from a partner). Shrewd investor.

48. Relationships: an inhibitive factor influencing the love life. But (because of Aries Sun sign) determined to overcome problems, and (because of the analyzing ability) face any difficulties.

O Venus Quincunx Ascendant

Not a powerful influence; most of the negative traits listed will not be present.

49. Relationships: he may well feel insecure in emotional relationships, so this aspect may underline the effect of the square between Venus and Saturn.
50. Health: must beware of comfort eating and overindulgence, which could lead to weight gain.

B Venus

Semi-Sextile Midheaven

We are certain of Kenneth’s birth rime, so can count this very minor aspect.

51. Career/Ambition: complements the involvement with the glamor industries, and connections with many of its stars, with whom he identifies.

0 Mars in Gemini

Keyword sentence: “You will use your initiative and physical energy with versatility in the attainment of objectives; but beware of restlessness.”

52. Health: this placing may lower the physical energy level, usually high when the

Sun is in Aries. He could dissipate energy and become restless; as a result his well-being wall suffer. He may find physical exercise dull. Arms and hands are vulnerable to minor accidents.

53. M/I/E: the intellectual energy is increased, with quickness of mind and intellect. Could become ill-tempered.
54. Career/Ambition: the need for change can provoke feelings of unfulfillment; versatility may need controlling.
55. Relationships: a lively influence on the sex life: an urge to experiment and enjoy sex well into old age.

El Mars in Eleventh House

56. Relationships: a group-leader among his peers, but may quarrel with them. Will want to give practical help. Can be cool in emotional relationships.

0 Mars Conjunct Jupiter

57. Career/Ambition: adds enterprise, enthusiasm and the ability to take the initiative. Ability to concentrate on objectives. Remember risktaking and daring present (Aries Sun).
58. Psy/Char: love of life and good living. Will say what he thinks.

0 Mars Sextile Pluto

59. Health: physical energy enhanced. Needs physical exercise to burn surplus.
60. M/I/E: emotional energy increased.
61. Psy/Char: motivated to make beneficial changes in life. Hard worker.

Jupiter in Gemini

Keyword sentence: “Adaptability in pursuit of objectives and in dealing with other people will help to expand your intellect; beware restlessness.”

62. M/I/E: intellectual restlessness, changes of opinion - advise consistency. Broad-minded, up-to-date in outlook. Bright responses to criticism.

0 Jupiter in Eleventh House

63. Relationships: a socializer. Large circle of friends and acquaintances. The “just good friends” tendency associated with this placing may be relevant here, due to Venus in Aquarius.

0 Jupiter Square Midheaven

64. Psy/Char: may identify with the grand and pompous, and think he is more important than he actually is.
65. Career/Ambition: indicative of success and the attainment of objectives.

Q Saturn in Taurus

Keyword sentence: “You may have to accept certain restrictions and limitations to your objectives if you want stability.”

of magnetism, which will be of use to you both in your personal life and in your career.

Avoiding extremes

2. Mut- While you are adaptable, it may able 5 be that you can be a little too Fixed 4 fixed in your basic opinions, though you have plenty of spontaneity and are frank and 34.3> H direct. You could be erratic, and

11.0 T tend to go to extremes of action -

partly because you like quick results. Try to avoid any tendency to be careless.

Strong You are talkative and excitable H and may tend to give the impres

sion that you know a lot about different subjects, but your knowledge may be superficial and 64. 2 □ you may at times exaggerate - and MC think that you are rather more important than you really are.

Good critical faculties

7. Asc 3 While you are extremely kind and generous, and possibly somewhat sentimental, you are also shrewd - and it may be that you tend to

11.0 T be somewhat quick-tempered 3/Earth and impatient. Practicality and

h W 0 good critical faculties help you in your work. Change and variety 6./7. O are of the utmost importance to T you - and it is excellent that you

25.3>II do not have a career which is

monotonous and repetitive. You 2 <2 1st can cope well with changes in your life - and these may be drastic, at times. It is possible that during unsettled periods V * 2 you come in for more than your fair share of confusion.

46.9 There arc in your chart some 8th excellent indications of financial

success. You are sensible in your attitude to money, and being 57. enterprising will work hard for

cW 2 material advancement.

Commentary

At the time this analysis was written Kenneth had been to drama school but had give n up the idea of becoming an actor and was working with two partners as a researcher and assistant producer of television documentaries. These much older partners were a very powerful influence on Kenneth’s development.

Iti due course both partners died, and Kenneth left the UK to settle in Los Angeles in the hope of breaking into the television and film industries. After long years of struggle he succeeded, and is now involved in the production of television films. His ninth house Sun is indicative of success abroad.

My comments in the analysis on his potential for writing were to prove accurate; he has successfully written film scripts. For his daily income Kenneth produces a vastly successful trade journal - the strong Geminian communicative influence being fully expressed. Kenneth has no regular emotional relationship but he is definitely more than just on the fringe of the Hollywood scene.

It is not usually possible to use in the final analysis every indication or note you may have made - in fact, selectivity is very much at the centre of the art of interpretation. When certain traits recur in independent areas of the chart, these are your “backers”.

In Kenneth’s case, for instance, note the references to restlessness.

Tins report is very basic and over-simplified, but is an example of a sound beginning in the art of interpretation. We reproduce it with Kenneth’s permission.The Zodiac Trail

Here is a further aid to interpretation, based on an old theory by which the strengths and weaknesses of planets were assessed. It helps you sec which planets “shine the brightest” and also how psychologically well-integrated the subject is.

We use Kenneth’s chart as an example, since by now you will be accustomed to it. When working onyour own charts it is helpful to go through this process after you have made your notes and before you write your analysis.

To construct a diagram like this one, always start with the Ascendant and ruling planet. The chart itself will then take you on. The more dead ends you reach, the less well- integrated the person may be.

Ri ling Planet From Gemini move on to that sign’s ruling planet. Mercury, in this case in the eighth house. Hv sign and house position it relates to Neptune in Virgo in the third house as well as to the ruling Moon, Mars and Jupiter. (Note too that Neptune is also the ruler of the Midheaven sign, Pisces.)

Commentary

Kenneth is well-integrated - it takes only two trails to go through the chart, and even these are related because of the strength of Mercury (especially) and Venus. Note how well the Aries Sun relates to Mars and Jupiter. Saturn has little to offer; it makes a strong conjunction to Uranus, but the only cross- reference to Saturn is that the sign it rules (i.e. Capricorn) is on the cusp of the seventh. Use Saturn principle could be a source of integration problems. Saturn

Eleventh House The eleventh house is ruled by Uranus, which also rules Aquarius and is in conjunction with Saturn. Both are in the Venus sign, Taurus. Venus is in Aquarius and is the leading planet in the chart type (i.e. the locomotive). In addition, Venus is in the eighth house, along with Mercury.

represents our destiny, and Kenneth, although enjoying work, feels he is pushing against the tide. Wary about any commitment in a relationship, Kenneth’s independence has Saturnine overtones (the influence of independent Venus in Aquarius is similar). His Aries Sun, however, makes him warm and positive, and his Cancer Ascendant ensures he is caring and kind. The Sun m the ninth house (well-integrated with Jupiter) shows his love of Los Angeles.Interpreting tlie Progressions

This is a fascinating area of astrology, and one with which the beginner is usually very eager to become acquainted. However, it is essential to develop not only a good technique, but the right attitude toward

progressions. It is all too easy to dramatize certain trends and to assume that, as a result of them, events will take place, so that the astrologer either becomes a prophet of doom or, at the other extreme, a blind optimist.

Always approach indications with an open mind. The planets work differently for all of us, and it takes time to discover their individual moods. Never be fatalistic; it is not good astrology, and the prediction of events is impossible. Progressions are meant to add extra perspective to our lives and be constructive and positive.

There are two categories of progressed influences - symbolic background day-for-a-vear progressions, and physical transits. There are other systems, but the day-for-a-year is the most commonly used.

Constantly refer to the interpretation pages of progressed aspects and transits as you build your interpretation. It is advisable to take detailed notes, adding comments regarding your subject’s lifestyle, commitments and present concerns and problems.

The Background Progressions

These are of two kinds: the aspects the progressed planets make to the natal planets, Ascendant and Midheaven (i.e. those in the birth chart); and the aspects the progressed planets, Ascendant and Midheaven make to each other. Some astrologers think events surface under the influence of one progressed planet to another, while the aspects from progressed to natal planets, Ascendant and Midheaven work on our psychological and instinctive levels. But the planets work very individually for all of us, and it takes time to know precisely how they work for each of our subjects. There are, however, a few general rules to follow':

♦ Aspects from the progressed Sun are the most important, especially if they are formed to the natal chart ruler or its progressed position.

♦ Aspects to or from the ruling planet are also very important.

The planets work differently for all of ns and it will take patience to discover their moods.

♦ Aspects formed between two planets, the Ascendant or Midheaven, if they are in aspect in the birth chart, will also be powerful. In this case it is advisable to read all text relating to the aspect, since its influence wall be operative in the birth chart as well as having an effect on the subject’s current life.
♦ Sometimes a progressed planet will form an aspect to a planet or planets involved in a tee-square, grand trine or grand cross. This will energize the aspect pattern, and if the natal aspect pattern is a very' close one - i.e. the orb between the planets involved is tiny - then it is likely that the subject will have an important period when longterm problems may be resolved, or the

Eventful and placid periods

It is important to consider the listed planets in numerical order. If several planets occupy the same degree of different signs, then a progressed or transiting planet will make a cluster of aspects or transits at one time. People with planets grouped this way will have very' eventful then very’ placid periods. This pattern will show up both in long periods of time and during briefer periods. A solar progression to several planets at once could indicate a period of about three years when everything seems to happen at once. A transit of, say, Jupiter to the cluster of planets could make for an extremely eventful time. A lunar progression to the cluster might indicate about three months w hen life is especially eventful. In such cases all these natal planets will also be in aspect in the birth chart and also supporting the theme - the proges- sions and transits will form a chain reaction. But individuals may well experience bland periods; during these you should encourage them to take life smoothly and calmly w’hile they can!

Lunar progressions

The progressed Moon seems to form a bridge between the day-for-a-year progressions and the transits. These are usually operative for about three months, and if the progressed Moon makes aspects to any planet or planets in aspect in the background progressions there is a good chance that the concerns and effects of those aspects will be highlighted during the periods of the lunar progression. (There may be transits that emphasize the theme, in which case the period will be a key one.) The lunar progressions also help link the two groups because of the length of their influence, w hich is much shorter than the influences of the other planets.

Some subjects fed and notice the effects of lunar progressions more than others. If Cancer rises, the Moon is in Cancer or Taurus, or perhaps in the fourth house, then the strength of the already powerful Moon in the chart is increased. As the Moon affects our emotions and instinctive level, its influence works subtly on our feelings, and some people, perhaps because they are not intuitive or sensitive, detach themselves from it. This can also be the case if the Moon is negatively aspccted in the birth chart. This is something you must discover with each subject you work on - bear it in mind.

The Transits

For now, ignore the transits of Mars, Venus, Mercury', the Sun and the New Moon. Look across the grid at the slow-moving, or heavy, planets. There may well be a great deal of activity’ during some months and very’ little in others. Think of the grid as a kind of graph, and relate it to your subject’s life. When the planets are busy, life may be eventful - either because things are happening to your subject (perhaps because the Midheaven is activated by planetary influences - see Jupiter’s transits conjunct the Midheaven, p.296, which explains something of particular relevance) or perhaps because the subject is making progress psychologically, changing their attitudetowards important issues, and so on. There will be times when the transits complement background and lunar progressions: look out for these.

Recurring themes

Very often, because of retrograde motion, a transit will recur three times. When a transit is exact for the first time you will probably be able to see how the transit will operate. The project or problem will surface again during the planet’s second transit, and will probably be resolved during the third. Frequently the third transit is the most potent influence. Sometimes the first two cause us to feel uncertain or unsettled, and we take matters into our own hands during the last period.

Transits of the fast-moving planets

These provide a guide to day-to-day matters, although their influence is increased if they are personalized or ruling planets. Read the interpretations of these transits to get the feel of them. Mercury' and Venus add a lot of color to our lives, the way vve communicate, our social life, and so on. Mars is important because it tends to make us unduly hasty' and perhaps accident- prone. These minor transits fill the aspect grid but aren’t too important, despite being very’ worthwhile.

The solar transits are quite constant each year. These influences are usually good and can be used in any way your subject desires (see the interpretation pages, 130-40). The same applies to the New Moon’s aspects, which form a longer-term theme and can be included as a general tendency when interpreting background trends if the string of aspects to a natal planet goes on for several months.

Interpreting a progression or transit

It is easy to over- or underinterpret a progression or transit. If y^rou are uncertain, admit it, saying that you could be viewing the influence in the wrong perspective; don’t dramatize! The planetary' energies are at our disposal, and even negauve ones can be used effectively - perhaps prompting us to hold back and be patient, or to take health precautions. Practice in interpretation is essential. The longer you work on a chart, the better you will know it and the moods of all the planets.

Neptune, radical and progressed, and the effects of these aspects will of course hover around for rather longer. The natal conjunction of Neptune to the Ascendant (p.332) - especially from Libra - may tend to weaken the personality. It is likely that with the strong Sun/Saturn link and the fact that the progression between the Sun and Neptune is a sextile (positive) aspect, Laura will progress psychologically and use her Neptune influences in an imaginative way. The minor quincunx between the progressed Mercury and natal Uranus adds originality, bright ideas and inventiveness. Remember that while this is a negative aspect, it is minor; Uranus is well-aspectcd in the natal chart and Mercury is a powerful planet for Laura. There will be tensions from time to time, especially when this progression is sparked into action by transits, but it is not a truly difficult progression.

Ideas for the future

The very long-term progression from Venus to the Mercurv/Mars conjunction is fascinating and focuses beautifully on what Laura wants to do. The tiny semi- sextilc progression from the Ascendant chimes in very well with the solar aspects to Neptune, while the Midheaven

Because Mercury' and Mars form such a close conjunction it is fair to calculate progressions and transits to them together

progression to Uranus supports the Mercury/Uranus progressions and highlights Laura’s objectives and ideas for her future. The powerful progression from Mars to the progressed Uranus, exact in 1991, is extremely dynamic, but tricky; it may well need reassessing nearer the time of its exactitude. It could work verv well or verv strenuouslv for Laura.

The fact that Laura’s progressed Moon is traveling through the sixth house is a good integrating link, since her natal Moon is in Virgo and the sixth house is the “Virgo” house

Laura’s birth time is accurate, and while the semi-sextile is a very minor progression, because the natal Ascendant conjuncts Neptune, its influence is increased

An especially long influence from the progressed Venus which turns from retrograde to direct motion on 17° of Scorpio, indicating a trend that will be operative for Laura for manv vears

The Interpretation

ere is an interpretation of I^uira’s progressed background conditions as interpreted from the aspects already described. Julia's comments, giving astrological reasons for her inter- Tf pretations, are printed

B in italic.

Laura Campbell, Progressed Ascendant Scorpio, Progressed Sun in Sagittarius, Progressed Midheaven Leo.

You have reached a very interesting phase in your life, a time when you are gaining greater self-confidence and, perhaps unconsciously, making certain elements of your personality work for you instead of against you. What might have emerged in the past as apprehension and a tendency to allow your imagination to fear the worst, has now changed, and you are able to harness considerable inspiration and a creative imagination and put these qualities to constructive use. Of course, you came to terms with your personality many years ago, but there are times during all of our lives when we continue to take further steps forward. This is the case with you at the present time.

I am combining the powerful solar progressions to Saturn and Neptune.

Because of your increased self-confidence, yoti are now’ feeling the need to strike out on your own. Indeed, your intuition and instincts are suggesting that you should do so - these feelings coming, as they do, from really deep levels of your personality. With this and an element of independence, it is not surprising that you arc at present having several really bright ideas concerning your future and, in particular, concerning your career. It seems as if you could very easily feel somewhat claustrophobic if you continue to work as a full-time an teacher - you need pastures new.

The progressed Sun is in Sagittarius - remember that Sagittarius always hates to feel claustrophobic¹.

It is interesting that you arc in need of this change of direction, for while your long-term background progressions are strong and positive they do not indicate very drastic changes. . . .

This last statement speaks for itself up to a point, but what is interesting is that while Ijiura wants to make certain changes, there is no “milestone” indication of change, such as a progression of the Sun or Ascendant into a new sign, nor indeed is the Midheaven changing signs. All of Laura’s ideas fall within the confines of her present interests and the development of those interests. However, all of the planets do show some change in one way or another, and in some respects the Sun/Saturn contact is indicative, as is the relationship between Mercury and Uranus and the direction of the progressed Midheaven to Uranus.

. . . However, the sort of developments you have in mind should work out well, and you arc in many ways in an excellent position to take advantage of the progressions that are working for you.

A sufficient number of trends show that you are not likely to throw’ caution to the winds, and that any changes you make will have been well considered.

You arc unlikely to make any serious mistake at this time.

Again I am using the strength of the Sun/ Saturn contacts.

Your ideas for the future that you put to me are most interesting, and the accent on wanting to develop your screen printing, both to make it commercially viable and to start weekend workshops for those wishing to learn the technique, is excellent. All kinds of craft and creative work should flourish for you, and there is one trend starting for you at present that is going to be influencing you for more than the coming decade, showing that a project of the son you have in mind could well be with you for that extremely long period of time. Your involvement and enthusiasm for such a project looks unlikely to fade.

This is the conjunction of Venus (double ruler) to the Mercury/Mars conjunction - a beautiful influence. Mercury and Venusoften give flair for all kinds of craftivork, and as Mars is involved Laura has the energy and (because Mars is in Scorpio) the determination to make a go of it. The ^astation of Venus” shows the extreme length of the influence.

It may be that rather later on the pressures of your work could build up and become a problem. If so, be constantly on the lookout for any of the tell-tale signs of pressure, because you could become rather more tense than you may realize, and you could take on too much and not be able to relax.

This is an interpretation of the Mars opposition to Uranus, exact in 1991. At the time of writing it is a little difficult to assess the effect of this particular progression, but it is necessary to warn Ijiura.

The progression might indeed work well for her, but there will almost inevitably be stress, especially when or if there are transits of a similar nature.

Your idea of writing a book about your screen-printing techniques is excellent, and looking at the short-term trends working for you during the coming 12 months, there are certainly times when you might care to present your ideas to a publisher. I will point these out in the monthly summaries. Meanwhile, make a lot of notes and maybe take photographs of your various products.

There are no long-term indications with a special bearing on your health, nor does it seem likely - from the examination of your chart only, of course - that either Roger or Bronwen will give rise to difficulties that cause you serious concern. Any short-term trends affecting them will be covered in the summaries.

Initially, 1 had some thoughts about the possiblity of interpreting the solar progressions to Neptune from a health standpoint because the Sun represents our vitality, and Neptune is in the first house. The progression does in some ways suggest some kind of health problem, but since I know Ijiura’s chart fairly well, and remembering that Neptune conjunct the Ascendant always seems to affect the subject psychologically, especially when in Libra, I opted instead for the interpretation set out here.

The question of cash must surely arise if you decide to stop teaching full-time.

Of course it will mean a smaller income, at least while you are getting started on your various projects. But because of the tenor of the trends working for you, you should be quite able to plan ahead with caution and common sense, and if necessary be able to take a philosophical

attitude to this, and indeed, all other spheres of your life. You should be decisive and determined, and your projects should work well.

We now move on to the interpretation of the transits and lunar progressions, remembering the general influence of the long-term background progressions, and watching for points at which the uvo complement each other.

What I have written so far is an interpretation of the long-term background trends working for you. What follows is an interpretation of the influences of the planets as they move round the sky, and the relationships they make to the positions of the planets as they were when you were born.

On the whole, the transiting planets, as they are known, are fairly active, and I think you will discover that there arc one or two times during the coming 12 months which will turn out, in retrospect, to be key periods for you.

The most important time period seems to be centered around January 1990, and I think you will discover just how the trends are going to work for you a few weeks before that time - perhaps even from close to the beginning of December. September 1989 could prove to be eventful, as could April 1990, but see the individual summaries of these months for the details.

In the indications for January, notice that the progressed Moon makes trine aspects to the Mercury/Mars conjunction and to the progressed position of Venus. This is homing in on that interesting very long-term progression. The results of this influence should prove to be dynamic, lively and interesting. I mention September because it is then that the progressed Moon is in contact with Pluto, and Pluto itself squares its own position: a negative trend. The month of April 1990 should be really excellent, for then the progressed Moon is in aspect (albeit a tense square) to the natal Uranus and makes a nice trine to the progressed Mercury - again emphasizing the background progressions.

The Monthly Summaries May 1989

It may be that you could feel a little less certain of your position for a few weeks. If you have not as yet finally decided to leave your teaching post this may not be a particularly good time to commit yourself, unless for practical reasons [ you really have to. If this is the case you may need additional support from Roger to help you reach your decision. There may well be some side issue that has been causing a problem, and it could all too easily rear its head again at this time. The chances are that it may well go away after the first week of June, but final resolution is not likely for a while - only respite. The pace of your life at work is likely to speed up for a few days around the 13th. The first few days of May would be a good time to entertain, or arrange a family outing.

7 he uncertainty is likely because of the negative progressions from the Moon to Neptune and the Sun. The problem I refer to is a possible interpretation of the transit from Pluto to its own position, though this might be working on a more psychological level. The busy period midmonth is due to the Mars transit to the

Midheaven, while the suggestion to arrange a family outing relates to the Venus and Mercury transits.

4 June 1989

The indications show that you will feel more positive. If you wish to make decisions about your future it might be as well to concentrate on these matters at present. The most enjoyable period of the month is likely to occur as a result of influences working for you between the 12th and the 15th or thereabouts - here are days on which to enjoy life thoroughly, expressing all your kind, loving and affectionate Libran qualities. During the last few days of June don’t be afraid to tell those who matter what you want to do careerwise. The last day or so of June is a positive date for you in any year - one of four which are worth remembering and using to do anything you feel is worthwhile and memorable.

The transits for June are more positive, so Laura is in a stronger position all round. The enjoyable period relates to the Venus transits, and the solar transit to the Midheaven is also interpreted.

July 1989

Two themes are now working for you. One of the themes beautifully highlights

your need for change, and supporting it is an extremely positive and progressive indication, a period during which you should in theory make excellent progress. However, it is possible that there may be some problems to clear up, and your way forward may not be as clear as you would like. An element of confusion is likely and there is also a possibility that someone might try to do you dirt in some way. It is possible that you might have to cope with some sort of an annoying delay. Patience will pay off, as will making quite certain that if you do have problems everything is well and truly above board. These somewhat negative trends are exact during the second half of the month, but remembering that positive indications are very active, it may be that I am tending to overinterpret the possible outcome of the negative indications. This looks as if it wall be generally a very' busy month for you, with many kinds of unrelated activities crying out for your attention all at the same time. Through them you could get a great deal of fun and pleasure.

The two main themes mentioned are the negative Saturn transits, countered by the lively Uranian trine to the Moon and the excellent Jupiter trine to the Sun. The fast-moving planets are likely to speed up the pace of Laura’s life and act as an excellent diversion, especially if there are complications with important issues.

August 1989

It seems as if some of your plans and activities wall make excellent progress, and there’s a good chance that you wall be experiencing a very rewarding time, especially as far as the development of your ideas and projects are concerned - though some indications similar to those for you last month suggest certain delays and complications. Could they relate to a totally different sphere of your life? That is possible. You will know' by now how these trends are working. I can only repeat the warning I put forward in last month’s summary'. These themes are hovering around for a while, but should clear by the end of October. Do not feel downcast or apprehensive about them; any problem may not be constantly w'ith you. If, for instance, it relates to a house repair, or even something infuriating like not getting a response from the manufacturer of a defective household product, >'ou w'ill find that it w'on’t beposition arc mixed indications, but the strength of the Jupiter transits, especially the conjunction to the Midheaven, are excellent.

The fast-moving planets are extremely active; those tiny influences will add considerable liveliness to the month as a whole.

October 1989

There is a great deal of planetary activity working for you this month. Overall your mood should be energetic, but during the first few days of October a tendency to be overhasty could very easily cause you to be slightly accident- prone. You should consciously slow down, and take special care when driving, working with sharp tools or handling hot dishes.

After a certain amount of frustration and perhaps annoyance, feeling that projects aren’t moving forward as quickly as you would like, it seems likely that by the end of October you should be progressing quite well. But remember that - as was the case earlier in the month - a sense of urgency might cause j you to act impulsively; try to curb this. There is a return of an influence that was exact for you during July, so you could well see the finalization of plans laid then. A cluster of minor influences around the middle of the month will offer the opportunity to enjoy life socially, and if you are thinking about making a purchase of some kind (perhaps a new outfit?) this would be a good time to visit your favorite boutique. Venus is involved, so a specially pampering beauty treatment or a new hairstyle wouldn’t come amiss. Incidentally, 1 October is, in any year, a rather special day for you. Think of it as a kind of “unbirthday” - a day to use, on which to do something special or to stan some kind of new^r work project.

There are some heavy transits from Saturn, and a return of the Uranus contact to the Moon. These form the most important influences of the month. Mars is very active, especially while conjunct the Ascendant on the 1st. The jolly influences from Mercury and Venus, mid-month, add lightness and a good opportunity for Laura to take up my suggestions about fashion and beauty.

I never use any technicalities in reports of this kind, but everyone knows that Venus represents beauty (and this is such a powerful planet for Laura) so a lighthearted comment adds a nice contrasting touch, especially when there are rather heavy influences working in a contrary manner. The reference to 1 October is to the solar transit to Laura’s Ascendant.

November 1989

Very gradually as the month gets under w ay, the pattern of your life could become a little more settled, and you will, I think, be in a strong position from the middle of the month, when you should perhaps take the initiative. If there’s something you want or something you feel isn’t right, speak up - but only when you are really sure of your ground, for a tendency to act prematurely might otherwise work against you. Don’t ignore details, especially if by chance you find you have to sign a contract. During the last few days of November you may get a hint of some new developments that are likely to come more clearly into focus a little later on. These could well have financial overtones.

Astronomically, some trends end this month. The action from Mars to Jupiter could be helpful. The suggestion of new developments is taken from the contacts from Mars to the Mercury/ Mars conjunction. 1 attach a certain importance to it since later there is a very long transit of Pluto to that conjunction.

I mention finance because the conjunction falls in Laura’s second house, and Pluto often has an influence on finance.

December 1989

There are several really very good indications working for you this month - indeed, it may be that you will make extremely good progress, and that new developments could very easily have financial overtones. However, I do not think that these wall really make their presence felt until just after Christmas, when life could become very eventful. The influences should w-ork very positively for you, especially if some new business project is a possibility' - certainly there is a possible emphasis on finance. The trend is exact for you between 29 December and mid-April 1990. You should have an enjoyable and interesting Christmas and New Year.

Notice that Ijiura has another transit of Jupiter to her Midheaven and Ascendant. Just as important, Pluto conjuncts her Mercury/Mars conjunction in Scorpio. Tin conjunction is ruled by Pluto, and the planet is stationary on it. This is an important trend and has terrific back-up from some positive Saturn transits next month and some excellent lunar progressions which also contact the progressed Venus. This surely is a key period forLaura and will probably be very eventful. The nice trine transit of Jupiter to its own position, at the end of December, adds another positive trend. Notice that I mention some specific dates. I can do this because Pluto is usually easy to time (see p.343). However, Pluto doesn’t usually make life really easy, so it is important not to be overoptimistic in interpretation - now read on!

January 1990

The trends this month increase in strength, and it looks very much as if vou will be experiencing a key period when a great deal will happen. You should make excellent progress, and w'hen you later look back on this period you will certainly see why. But be cautious, and w'hile you will probably be quite right to think that good progress is being made, be prepared for some delays or frustrations which may at the time be irritating, but which could, again in retrospect, turn out to be all to the good. It w’on’t be surprising if you feel pretty tense at times, and you may not sleep as well as usual.

This is a time at which to control any immediate or emotionally impulsive response to situations. By all means listen to and follow up hunches or intuitions, but control the emotional flow - particularly if you are feeling impatient. You will then be channeling a great deal of positive, emotional energy and making it work for and not against you. If you are very' busy, try to make quite sure you take time out to enjoy Bronwen’s company and interests, since if business developments occupy most of your time and energy, she could fed rather left out of things. This is particularly so if any new' venture is a joint one between you and Roger.

The caution is due to the Saturn transits. These trends are positive - hence my comment that any delay should prove worthwhile in retrospect. It is also important to remember that Pluto is somewhat unpredictable, even when working positively. While interpreting Pluto’s influence on the Mercury/Mars conjunction jointly, if we look at the basic interpretation of each planet it is not difficult to see that Pluto is working very powerfully indeed for Laura. Again, the influence should work out well, but because so many factors are involved - the emotional level relating to Mars and the second house plus Scorpio - it is fair to advise caution and control.

February 1990

Similar themes continue to work for you, but to maintain good progress you should still heed my warning about controlling impulsiveness. Keep your cool and be patient (though this will be difficult, even for a double Libra, since the planetary' energy is rather too strong for such an attitude; nevertheless, try'!)

There is very little change in the indications working for Laura during February. The lunar progressions will still be operative, and are given a boost (as is her tendency to be impulsive) by the square to the progressed Mars. The new transits follow a similar theme - of progress plus impatience and an element of frustration.

March 1990

Along with a continuation of existing influences, a new- trend accentuates careful thought and circumspection.

You may well feel y'ourself under greater pressure than may actually be the case. There is a possiblity of a certain amount of confusion for you, and someone else may be able to see the situation more clearly - thus assisting you to see the wood through the trees. Overall, I think the main stream of events will work out very well for you, and whatever goes on could easily be extremely exciting; but do consider every' move very’ carefully. The last week of March should prove the most progressive.

The progressed Moon makes a square to the progressed Uranus.

Circumspection is all- important. A square transit from Uranus to Neptune starts on the 8th. This is not easy: Laura could have a tricky time for a few weeks. But it does seem that she will come through well and achieve what she wants. She’s had transits of Jupiter over her Midheaven, and the constructive energy of her background solar progressions to Saturn should be very stabilizing.

April 1990

It is likely that by mid-April you will be in a good position, and any growing pains or problems relating to projects or business developments will have been eased or resolved: you will feel satisfied with what you have achieved. There are some lively indications working for you for the next two or three months, and it is good to be able to end on a positive note. You really could be taking off. . . .Relationship s

Synastry is not applied simply to emotional relationships. It is quite common for an astrologer to give advice to two or more people forming, or already involved in, a business partnership. Sometimes, for a variety of reasons, two friends may require a synastry report. Synastry is also widely used when assessing the vital and very- sensitive relationship between parents and children, but that particular area of the technique we deal with in the section on the family (see pp.168-71).

Seeking reassurance

The first question to ask yourself when someone requests a piece of synastry is why they actually need it - indeed, this is an excellent starting point for all astrological work. Very- often one partner needs reassurance because they are uncertain whether a relationship should be further developed. It is a good general rule to assess the subject’s chart with this in mind - decide just how forthright and decisive they are when not at a crossroads in their life. Ask yourself whether a lack of good judgement is shown in their chart. Are they inhibited or fearful of love or sex, or lacking in self- confidence when it comes to making any kind of commitment? Most importantly, are they trying to use you as a prop - a surrogate mother/farher figure who will tell them what to do? If so, will they want this kind of support from their partner in an emotional or working relationship?

Impartiality' and ethics

Whatever the nature of the relationship, it is essential that you do not make up people’s minds for them. Impartiality is of prime importance. Sometimes, too, a question of ethics arises. This is very often the case wherethere is an eternal triangle. The injured wife, for instance, will approach an astrologer with her own, her husband’s and his girlfriend’s data. (Astrologers down the ages have been confronted with the question “Will he come back to me?”) You carry a special responsibility in such a case, for it is unlikely that the husband will know anything of the consultation. Discretion and tact are of prime importance.

However, often the partner requesting the work will want it directed at themself only. Tty' to encourage joint participation, either by preparing a written report addressed to both partners or suggesting a joint consulta- tion/counseling session. In this way a better balance is achieved, and you can encourage better communicationbetween the partners - something that may have been lacking and may even have been at the root of the difficulty. By involving both partners it is possible to achieve a fuller awareness of contrasting personality traits, which will result in greater give and take in the relationship. If only one partner is involved you can only directly help that partner, who will interpret your findings on the other partner subjectively.

Recognizing limitations

Sadly, there is all too often a lack of full birth data, and our work is therefore limited. If this is the case, point out to your subject that there is no all- important Ascendant or Midheaven to blend into the interpretation, and that there can also be doubt about the Moon’s sign, should it have changed signs on the birth date, and that while you can be of some help, that help will necessarily be limited.

Synastry and Popular Astrology

The general public has it fixed in its head that certain signs go well together and others are badly matched. This generalization simply does not work. The theory is linked to the elements and makes excellent fodder for a popular magazine article, but many people take what is written too seriously: we have heard young people say “I can’t go with him - he’s an Aries and I’m a Taurus.” That’s nonsense!

There is an element of truth in the theory that those of the same Sun sign element tend to get on well together as friends, but it is only when the full birth charts of both people have been calculated and interpreted that any real conclusions can be reached about a more serious relationship. Even then, no astrologer ought to say that one person should or should not form a relationship with another - that would be quite wrong and unethical.

What is needed in a compatible relationship if it is going to work is:

♦ Rapport.
♦ Good communication.
♦ Sympathy.
♦ Empathy.
♦ Tolerance.

♦ Give and take.

The Houses

The seventh house This is the most important area of the chart when interpreting how your subject will relate to other people. The sign on the cusp of the seventh house is an important clue, and the influence of any planet or planets within this house is also extremely important. Do not be concerned if there are no planets in the house - the sign itself is an excellent guide. It is, of course the polar, or opposite, sign to the Ascendant. Here the subject’s needs and requirements from a partner are present. It is almost uncanny how clearly people respond to their most intimate partners in the manner of this sign, though this form of expression will be apparent only (and we do mein only!) to the partners themselves. Other people, even quite close friends and certainly relatives, will be totally unaware of these reactions.

For instance, someone with Pisces rising will of course have all the personality traits of Pisces, but within the context of his or her closest partnership an extremely Virgoan reaction will emerge. The sensitivity and tender, emotional attributes of Pisces will be qualified by a sharply critical attitude, of which only the most intimate partners will be aware.

Look out for this indication in your own chart and that of your partner - it is perhaps one of the most fascinating theories of this area of astrology. Describe it to your subjects and you will certainly make them sit up - simply because this attitude is apparent only in the most intimate of situations!

The fifth house

This is the house of love affairs. It is also the house of risk taking. Lvery love affair that is embarked upon contains an element of risk. Here the risks are emotional. Will the people involved get hurt? Will love be equal on both sides, or will one partner want more from the relationship than the other? Will the affair last, or will it be just one of those things? Astrologically speaking, will the relationship progress from the fifth to the seventh house?

All these questions concern fifth house matters. This is also the house of creativity, which in this case canrelate to our attitude tow ards children (as opposed to parenthood, which is more a fourth house matter).

The second and eighth houses

These are the houses of money and possessions, but they also have a say in each partner’s attitude towards sexual expression and the flow- of emotion. Because of the financial implications, these houses are, like the Midheaven, very important when it comes to business relationships.

There are specific areas of a birth chart that will show how people react in a partnership.

The fourth house

This is the house of family, home and domesticity. It shows how settled we want to be, what our attitude is towards family life and our feelings about parenthood.

Other Factors

The polarities

You will find that in many charts you compare there is an emphasis on polar, or opposite, signs. For instance, partner C’s Sun is in Taurus while partner D’s Ascendant is Scorpio. While there is often an aspect formed between these two and similar elements, it is very useful indeed to compare the sign polarity, even if theplanets or angles concerned arc not in aspect. Such a polarity will most certainly add strength and permanence to any relationship between two people and therefore should not be ignored. It is important to remember, though, that the influence is naturally much stronger if these features of the charts are in aspect. However, it is advisable to apply this technique only to Ascendants, Midheavens, Suns, Moons and ruling planets.

The elements and qualities

The strengths of the elements (or triplicities) and qualities (or quadru- plicities) in individual charts can be used in synastrv. They will add yet another factor to help you judge compatibility between partners.

The Midheaven

This is relevant because it represents our identification of aspirations and ambitions and the attitudes we have towards them. You will find that if planets from one chart make aspects to the Midheaven of the other chart, then this is an excellent indication. It is especially important in business relationships (see p.166).

SVNASTRY AND PROGRESSIONS

Very often a relationship begins when the need for or possibility of one is indicated in an individual’s chart.

For instance, when:

♦ The progressed Sun, Ascendant or ruling planet makes an aspect to the natal or progressed position of Venus, or vice versa.
♦ The progressed Venus makes an aspect to the natal Moon. (The progressed Moon making an aspect to the natal or progressed Venus would be operative only for a few weeks, and while such a trend might put the subject “in the mood for love”, unless the Moon is the chart ruler or in Cancer these indications may not be powerful enough.)

♦ There is a transit of Uranus or Neptune to the natal Venus (although if it is a square or opposition the subject could have difficulties).

The Houses

The fifth house

The second and eighth houses

There are specific areas of a birth chart that will show how people react in a partnership.

The fourth house

This is the house of family, home and domesticity. It shows how settled we want to be, what our attitude is towards family life and our feelings about parenthood.

Other Factors

The polarities

The elements and qualities

The Midheaven

SVNASTRY AND PROGRESSIONS

Very often a relationship begins when the need for or possibility of one is indicated in an individual’s chart.

For instance, when:

♦ The progressed Sun, Ascendant or ruling planet makes an aspect to the natal or progressed position of Venus, or vice versa.
♦ The progressed Venus makes an aspect to the natal Moon. (The progressed Moon making an aspect to the natal or progressed Venus would be operative only for a few weeks, and while such a trend might put the subject “in the mood for love”, unless the Moon is the chart ruler or in Cancer these indications may not be powerful enough.)
♦ There is a transit of Uranus or Neptune to the natal Venus (although if it is a square or opposition the subject could have difficulties).

However, it is necessary to examine the positions of one partner’s progressed chart in relation to the other partner’s natal and progressed planets. Very often at the start of a new relationship partner C’s progressed Ascendant,

Sun, Venus or Mars will be in aspect to partner D’s Ascendant (and the cusp of the seventh house), Sun, Venus, Mars, Uranus or Neptune. Or there will be an aspect showing the attraction, developing friendship or business potential of the partners. All indications like this are excellent, but in order for such a relationship to last there must be indications joining the respective birth charts, for this will show long-lasting rapport.

What to look for

If there are only a few joint aspects and house positions this does not necessarily mean that a relationship will be unrewarding or dead. It will work well in the areas emphasized by those aspects and planets’ positions which are present. (See the interpretation of planets in svnastry, pp.154-5.)

The strongest link is an exact opposition between one partner’s Sun and the other’s Ascendant. In really good relationships we often find this present to the same degree. For instance, if one partner’s Ascendant is Libra 22°, the other partner’s Sun falls on Aries 22°. Sun opposition Sun is also excellent.

When there is an emphasis on one sign (i.e. shared Ascendants, Sun or Moon signs) the people concerned share the characteristics of that sign on either the Sun, Moon or Ascendant level of their personalities. There is a risk that one partner may grow to dislike or become intolerant of what is seen as the other partner’s faults, since consciously or unconsciously she recognizes them in herself. The comment, under stress, may be “We are too much alike”.

Assessing Relationships

The panel on this page suggests questions that you can ask. Having sorted out the answers, you will be well equipped to cope with your couple when they come and see you, or if you write a report or make a tape for them.

Chart Comparision: Synastry

Chart comparison is a very rewarding area of study, but a lot of careful work is necessary before you can reach any firm conclusions: you must consider all possible indications that will color the relationship. The charts can be compared in two ways - either by placing all the information within the circle of one chart (opposite page), when the joint aspects are easily seen, or by placing the second set of information in a circle surrounding the first (this page).

Drawing up the Charts

Make sure that you draw up your two charts on forms that have an additional circle outside that of the birth chart - the progressed chart is ideal. (Do not bother to enter minutes or decimal places alongside the planets’ positions; the degree is adequate.) At this point you have two charts of people who want to deepen a particular relationship. You have studied their individual charts; now you must bring their charts together.

Listing Signs

Make a list of each partner’s Ascendant, Midheaven, Sun and Moon signs, the signs of all the planets and the degree of the sign they occupy. Again, you need not bother with the minute or decimal place.

Combining the Charts

l ake your original drawings of the two birth charts and place one partner’s Ascendant, Midheaven and planets’ positions in the outer circle of the other partner’s chart. Do this also to the second chart. From this exercise you can see how the planets relate to each other in terms of their house positions, and it will also make it easier for you to recognize the joint aspects.

Comparing Two Charts

Each partner’s planets are placed around the zodiac wheel, with the other partner’s planets placed in the outside circle. Note the respective house positions: for instance, partner B's full second house is also tenanted by partner A’s Neptune, and it is opposed by A’s Sun. A’s Moon is in B's fifth house - a romantic link. Secrecy and deception could be a problem, which issuggested by B's Moon, Mars and Neptune falling in A’s twelfth house, and A !r Midheaven and Pluto falling in B's twelfth house.Partner A’s Venus occupies the precise position on the cusp of the seventh house in partner B’s chart, so is in exact opposition aspect to the Ascendant: a positive indication, showing love and understanding, and adding sympathy. B’s Jupiter lies in the same position and makes the same relationship to A’s Ascendant, indicating that this partner will help open up life and experience for the other, and give encouragement. B’s Neptune is in opposition to A’s Sun and Moon, indicating romance - but also possible misunderstandings and confusion. The opposition between Mercury (A) and Mars (B) and the square between Sun (A) and Uranus (B) show's tension.

The most important joint aspects between these two charts (listing A’s planets first) are:

Venus opposition Ascendant + Ascendant opposition Jupiter + Ascendant trine Sun +

Sun opposition Moon +

Sun opposition Neptune -

Moon square Moon

Mercury square Mercury

Ascendant trine Venus and Uranus -

Sun square Uranus

Saturn opposition Jupiter -

Midheaven square Jupiter

The remaining squares show' potential strain, but could add strength and drive, while trines and sextiles unlisted w'ill add flexibility' and ease. Most oppositions give rapport, but here the opposition between the Sun and Neptune is negative, probably leading to misunderstandings and confusion.

Interpreting Aspects

Here is a brief interpretation of even- aspect that can be formed between two peoples’ charts. Many of the interpretations give positive and negative statements. Usually the positive ones refer to trines and sextiles, and the negative to squares; but it is important to remember that very often oppositions make for increased rapport between people. This does not necessarily mean that they will entirely and invariably agree, or be whiling to give way to each other, but there will be mutual understanding, and excellent feedback within situations concerning the planets or spheres of life involved.

Where there is only one interpretation, you can assume that there is no contrasting influence, unless, having studied the two charts in detail, you think that the planets involved are a potential source of strain or trouble, or the reverse, between your couple.

Asc	Ascendant
Asc	Empathy and understanding or personality clashes, refer to respective elements
MC	Identification with respective aspirations and ambitions
o	Rapport - but refer to signs and elements involved
j	Sympathy or discord
9	Good communication
9	Love and friendship, harmony
d¹	Strong physical attraction, quarrelsome
%	\| Sense of humor
	Inhibiting, style crampinc or constructively helpful - a strong shoulder
w	Dynamic but tense
y	Possible confusion and misunderstandings but romantic
2	\| Compulsive relationship

T					♦
MC Midheaven	D	Moon	<5	Mars
MC	, Will work towards joint objectives and a aspirations - or rivalry	D	The couple will “pick up” each others’ moods, or will counter them, according to signs	d	Highly charged sexually, quarrelsome, energetic
	o	A supportive partnership will achieve goals	_9_	Increases empathy and sympathy. A tendency to worry about each other in above average way	Z	Lively, energetic, enterprising, but “devil may care”
	D	Sympathy and understanding (Moon) will support partner's goals (Midheaven)	9	Usually positive expression of feeling - sometimes overdone!'	*	Saturn will be a source of annoyance and frustration to Mars
	_9_	Intellectual interest and exchange of ideas about goals	d	Increases the emotional level of relationship	ttf	Adds exciting tension
	9	Shared aspirations and goals	Z	Good for joint expansion. Might overestimate problems and difficulties	¥	Romantic, colorful, escapist - often eventual disappointment
	~d	Joint hard work but possible disagreement over goals	h	Often a constructive link, but a lowering, heavy and depressing influence	B	Difficult, frustrating
	Z	Encouragement (Jupiter) will make challenges for partner (Midheaven)		Increases excitement between partners, but also tension		Jupiter
	h	(Saturn) A wet blanket or wall stabilize partner’s ambition	¥	Romantic but often unrealistic	Z	Enjoyable, fun - could be intellectually stimulating
	W	(Uranus) Indifference to partner’s goals or will contribute brilliant ideas	B	Increased emotional expression, or inhibition	h	Good blending of common sense and optimism
	y	(Neptune) Will contribute inspiration or simply cause confusion and get in the way	x>	Mercury	w	Uranus will add exciting original ideas when Jupiter accepts challenge
	b	(Pluto) Will force issues or block progress (Midheaven)	9	Intellectual rivalry, usually well meaning - excellent communication - chatty	¥	Inspirational
O	Sun	9	Excellent for friendship in all kinds of relationships	B	Excellent for finance/business arrangements
	o	A powerful link, but refer to signs and elements	d	Argumentative, sometimes tense, usually fun and active	*1	Saturn
	3>	A blending of self-expression (Sun) with instinct and intuition - but refer to signs	Z	Intellectual challenge will be infectious		A heavy, serious side to the relationship - perhaps “destiny” at work
	9	Excellent for communication	t?	Could stabilize a relationship but Saturn will frustrate Mercury	W	Rivalry for power and domination or partnership
	9	Love or rivalry - usually the former	W	A lively, intellectual rapport but tension if a negative aspect	¥	Saturn may frustrate Neptune’s inspired ideas - or will channel them constructively
	a	Sexual attraction, heightened emotions - will work hard together	V	Inspirational but misunderstandings likely	B	Frustrating and inhibiting
	z	Jupiter will encourage Sun to broaden horizons intellectually and to accept challenge	B	Usually causes frustration		Uranus
	h	Adds permanence, but can cause inhibition	9	Venus		Adds dynamic attraction, but source of tension
	w	Adds an exciting, dynamic dimension, but a source of tension	9	Harmony, romantic love - sometimes rcsentfulncss	¥	Possible tension as result of confusing misunderstandings
	v	Romantic, sentimental but deception likely	d	Strong sexual attraction	e	Tense blockages due to breakdown in communication
	B	A searching, powerful, compulsive relationship	Z	Joint pleasure in life and each others’ company	9	Neptune
			Emotionally restrictive - sometimes disappointments within relationship	□	Ignore unless Neptune personalized in one chart then adds romance, idealism but possibly deception
		W	Dynamic, magnetic attraction	B	Usually the sextile - increases romance, and heightens sexual attraction
		¥	Pure romance, but beware “rose colored glasses”	2	Pluto
		B	Emotionally highly charged, gotxf for business partnerships	B	Ignore unless Pluto personalized in one partner’s chart - then adds a compulsive element
					♦

T lie Se xual Relationsn

A considerable amount of work has been undertaken on astrological indications of sexuality, but on the whole only by individual astrologers. Not many conclusions have been sufficiently supported by statistical evidence to be accorded textbook status. The attempts to link planetary positions or particular aspects in the birth chart to

specific areas of sexuality remains tentative, yet there are some general rules that seem supported by enough evidence to be recorded here.

Treading carefully

However, even if one of these strong indications does show up clearly in a chart that you are examining for one of

your clients, be sure to take time to approach it with great care. The fact is that it may not be as clear-cut an indication as you think it is at first. When comparing two charts, your care should be doubled. It is important that you should always remember that in this exceptionally sensitive area of emotional life any commentary that you put forward may weigh too heavily with your clients, especially if they are already distressed or worried.

The astrologer’s role As always, it is necessary not to forget that you are in business to sustain and counsel those who seek your astrological guidance and advice: any mistake that you make as a result could have disastrous effects, not only on your clients but also on their partners.

The Planets

♦ Sexual attraction exists when one partner’s Venus aspects the other partner’s Mars. Conjunctions are the most potent; trines and sextiles make for easy and rewarding expression; squares often promote an excitable, lively tension; and oppositions indicate a powerful rapport.
♦ There is a dynamic, magnetic attraction if the Venus in one chart makes aspects to the Uranus in the other. The panel (right) shows in more detail the strength of each aspect. However, when there is a square or opposition, the Uranus partner may play a game of hard to get or perhaps even resist the magnetic pull.
♦ There is a certain sexual attraction when the Mars of one partner forms aspects to the other’s Neptune, but they can sometimes cause an overromantic attitude in the Neptune partner and perhaps an overscxual approach from the Martian one. This may be particularly true in cases where the Martian partner shows a strong need for independence.
♦ When Mars and Uranus are linked in two charts there will almost inevitably be a certain amount of tension between the couple. They will gain much pleasure if this can be expressedthrough sexual rapport, but there must also be considerable compatibility in other areas of the charts if the relationship is to work. Without this, therelationship may possibly deteriorate into real cat-and-dog sparring, with the partners draining each other both emotionally and physically.

9^0

Venus Opposition/Shxtile Uranus Impulsiveness may cause problems at times

incompatibility

Case History

Mark and Sylvia met when he was 15 and still at school and she was a 19- year-old an student. He looked a great deal older and was in many ways extremely mature for his age. They shared a compulsive, dynamic and highly-charged relationship for just over a year. Sylvia was very even- tempered and patient with Mark’s dramatic and extreme swings of mood.

The couple were passionately in love in the way that only very young people can be, but Mark’s volatile changes of mood became a considerable strain on Sylvia. They would talk about and discuss every kind of subject, which was very stimulating and positive for both of them. However, all too often the discussions became arguments and, on his part, aggressive quarrels. There was also great rivalry between them, especially intellectually, and they constantly tried to outwit one another. Mark would frequently say “We’re too alike, we could never be friends.” He was right - thev couldn’t.

The end of the relationship

The relationship ended very abrupdy when Mark hit Sylvia in the street in broad daylight.

Years later, when both were married to other people, they saw each other in a theater. They spent the whole evening glaring at each other and, meeting in the bar at the interval, did not speak a word!

Mark died of a heart attack in 1983.

Sylvia

Sylvia’s chart is of the bucket type, and if we interpret this in relation to her love life, remembering that Sagittarius is rising, we can fairly say that she will enjoy the chase just as much as the achievement of her heart's desire!

Mark

Murk’s chan shows that while his Gemini planets meant he was flirtatious and good company, his Cancerian Moon made him caring and sensitive. His expressions of deep, sensual and passionate emotion tended to be shrouded in a miasma of words, but it surfaced more openly through his Cancerian Moon which, along with Pluto in that sign and exactly conjunct the Ascendant, also caused his very sudden changes of mood.

Mark's senous attitude is supported by Saturn, the ruler of Capricorn, tenanted in emotional Pisces in the eighth house. The flow of emotion is, however, seriously blocked, since the planet is at the apex of a heavy tec-square, and receives square aspects from his Sun, Venus and Mars conjunction in Gemini

There are no planets in Mark's seventh house, and as Capricorn is on the cusp of the seventh we can say that he took his relationships very seriously. He wouldn't commit himself quickly or easily, and would be constant and faithful once he did so

Jupiter is powerfully placed in its own sign. Sagittarius, in the fifth house. However, because it is seriously afflicted and at the apex of the second tee- square, its influence was not good, adding an exaggerated sense of drama and tendency to lose his sense of proportion and perspective in his love life

Both the Sun and Pluto are in the eighth house, adding an intense, positive flow of emotion in Sylvia's sexual expression

Sylvia’s seventh house is covered by Gemini and tenanted by a conjunction of Venus and Mars. This indicates a positive, but not too serious, attitude toward love and sexual relationshipsThe Joint Chart Due to the high number of planets in Gemini, we have drawn Mark’s Sun, Venus and Mars in the outer band of the chart, normally reserved for the tivo people’s Ascendants and Midheavens.

The Major Aspects Most of the major joint aspects are fully interpreted in the column on the right, but in addition there was more than a hint of romantic idealism present in Sylvia’s attitude towards Mark, shown by her Neptune making a square aspect to his powerful Mercury (seventh on the list). It is interesting that the aspect is square, since the strong idealized tendencies of Neptune (always ready with the rose- coloured spectacles) were present.

An excellent sextile involves her powerful Leo Sun and his Mercury (eighth on the list). This positive indication sustained the relationship, and if they had continued to share their lives it may have helped them to achieve a more rewarding expression of emotion as they matured.

Note that there is an opposition between Mark’s Ascendant and Pluto and Sylvia’s Aquarian Saturn (sixth on the list). 'This clearly indicates the importance of the relationship for Sylvia, but as the orb is 5° (the maximum allowed when working on joint charts) it can be used only as a supporting feature.Assume that someone - or a couple - comes to you saying that a relationship is in difficulties. The reasons arc usually one or more of the following:

♦ One partner is having an affair.
♦ The relationship is worn out - there is now no positive communication between the couple.
♦ The partners are simply getting on each other’s nerves.
♦ One partner is too much caught up with work or children to have any time and energy left for their partner.

Astrological assessment

Your first step is to calculate and progress their charts and work out their transits. Here are some of the influences that might indicate the cause of the trouble.

A time of evaluation

One or both partners may be experiencing a Saturn Return (see p. 185) - most likely their first. If so, their relationship may have reached stalemate. Perhaps they married too young, and now feel that they have far less to offer each other. This is common when this powerful astrological trend is operative. Maybe they should part. It is up to you to point out that they could be experiencing a genuine change of feeling for each other. Assess and interpret their full birth charts to see where they could begin to rebuild their relationship, should they decide to do so.

Changes in the relationship

One or both partners may be experiencing their progressed Sun or Ascendant (sometimes Midheaven) signs moving from one sign to the next.

This indicates important changes and often psychological developments.

Approach your couple as we have already described. If there is an eternal triangle, provided there arc powerful indications joining the erring partner’s and a new mate’s chart, there may be a permanent separation from the original partner. In such situations it is usually almost impossible to obtain the new partner’s birth time, unless the person making the break is the one approaching you for advice. It is also very- important to assess the strength of the emotional relationship between the two original partners.

Causes of tension

One or both partners, if they are about forty- years old, may be experiencing the Uranus Half-return (see p. 185), which is a very- disruptive influence. If they are behaving uncharacteristically - perhaps indulging in a lighthearted affair - the difficult, stressful period may pass, but it will be as well for you to point out how this potent influence can be made to work for, instead of against, the subject. It might be time for the partner not under the Uranian influence to seek some rejuvenation - such as a change of image or a new hairstyle - to show the Uranian partner just how attractive they are.

There can also be tension and difficulties between partners if either or both arc suffering from tense transits from Uranus, Neptune or Pluto to the Ascendant, Sun, Moon or Venus - sometimes Mars, natal Saturn, Uranus or Neptune. When these cease to be operative, the permanent relationship will probably settle down, but try to help the partner see reason. Just how- easy this will be depends not only on that partner’s progressions, transits and lunar progressions but also on the strength of the basic relationship between them, and whether one issimply getting at the other as an excuse to hasten a long-wanted, and probably much-needed, break.

Quarrels over money

Money troubles, a source of difficulty, often have strong emotional overtones, since Venus, the planet of love, also signifies money and possessions. If one partner is extravagant and the other stingy, this will show from the chart (refer to the question list on p. 151, which will give you some possible birth chart clashes). Should one partner have, say, a progression from Venus to the natal or progressed Jupiter, it may be that he or she is on a spending spree that needs controlling. But look further: is this revenge sparked off by the other partner’s coolness? (“If I can’t have him, I’ll have his money!”)

A worn-out relationship

A tired relationship usually shows up as a lack of compatibility in the birth charts, but if another area is powerful, that is what will originally have brought the couple together. For instance, progressions between respective Venus and Mars show sexual attraction, which might be present in the charts. Reread “Mark and Sylvia” (pp. 158-9), a case of sexual, emotional and intellectual fireworks with no meaningful psychological rapport.

Getting on each other’s nerves Each partner will criticize the other if there are too many shared signs and too much psychological recognition of mutual faults and annoying habits. The “hate” is of the area of the self reflected in the partner.

Preoccupation with children

While the maternal or paternal instinct shows up strongly in birth charts, it could - perhaps bv the progressed Moon travelling through Cancer - be over-emphasized, making the woman a “baby bore” or unexciting bedmate. Acute tiredness is shown by heavy Saturn transits to the Sun, Moon or Ascendant, as is depression - often present at such times. Try to bring out the man’s sympathy - you may have to suggest medical advice or further counselling, especially if the mother is prominently Cancerian. (For similar problems, see pp. 168-71.)Divorce

Case History

This chart shows Wayne’s and Cathy’s progressed planets at the time they decided to split up and divorce. One of Cathy’s reasons for wanting to part from Wayne was that she was totally fed up with their lifestyle, which, though prosperous and very comfortable, had become dull for her. She left Wayne for a man with far less money, who in her eyes was more exciting.

Note her progressed Midheaven was changing signs at this time. Of equal importance, her progressed Mars was conjuncting Wayne's progressed Sun: this was a flashpoint. Interestingly, in many cases the contact could easilyinfer heightened sexual activity, but in her case it was anger and an increasingly aggressive attitude towards Wayne. The general sense of being fed up is also indicated by her progressed Mercury and Venus close to the conjunction of Wayne’s progressed Saturn and her progressed Uranus.

Disruption and change

Looking at Wayne’s progressed positions, it is worth noting that although he had a group of progressed sextiles and trines operative at the time, the planets show great disruption in his life, affecting him personally andpsychologically. Not only is the progressed Ascendant in conjunction with the progressed Pluto (Leo 8°), but progressed Uranus (Gemini 8°) and progressed Mercury (Libra 8°) are also conjoined in the configuration.

All these indications show the level of disruption and change. As stated in the description of the additional technique (see p.154), the transiting planets’ positions are merely an aide- memoire, but you could assess them in relation to the couple’s progressed positions. Remember, however, it is usually the case that transits apply to natal planetary' positions only.

Tl ie Subject Al

Most people who live alone are extremely independent, and three signs are in general related to independence. Hut remember that when we refer to a sign we are not simply referring to the Sun sign. The emphasis on a sign can be by Sun, of course, but the Ascendant or Moon sign, or a sign with a steilium, or cluster of planets, in it can be equally relevant. Aries and

Marie

This chart shows an extremely powerful Aquarian influence. It is interesting that the steilium falls in the fifth house, since Marie (who is an attractive woman), enjoys a fulfilling love and sex life but has no permanent partner. Her strong need for independence is also shown by Uranus in the seventh house, closely opposing her Libran Ascendant. In many ways Marie’s Libran Ascendant is well-expressed, but the conflict of the Libran need for a permanent relationship fights her Aquarian characteristics. Marie often says she wants to be married, but having to share her life permanently with someone could be anathema to her. In true Aquarian spirit she is kind and always ready to help - a good friend, but an extremely private person.

Sagittarius are fiercely independent signs; those with these signs emphasized are warm and need the response and interaction of partners, and on the whole relate extremely well. But the most independent sign of all is Aquarius; the prominently Aquarian person will develop an independent lifestyle that they find difficult to sacrifice. At the same time

Marie

Marie’s chart has no outer ring, be cause she does not hare a permanent partner.

many arc extremely romantic, and will say they desperately want a partner. It seems that what they really want is a partnership - without the partner. This does not prevent them enjoying a rewarding love and sex life, as long as they can hang on to their individuality and their own important lifestyle.

The Aquarian influence

Two contrasting factors emerge here. One is the fact that Aquarius, although an air sign, is also a fixed sign, so that an clement of stubbornness is present. The other is that the Aquarian will be extremely friendly, willing to help, but a most private person. Other folk are not allowed to overstep their deliberately drawn boundary lines. As a result, this group often has the most difficult)' in developing relationships.

If you are approached by someone with this kind of problem, there may be a striking emphasis on Aquarius in their charts, or it may be that Uranus is powerfully placed and heavily aspected, especially by Venus and Saturn. Only your subjects themselves can reach conclusions about their problems, but you may help if you point out the possibilities we have mentioned.

Unaspected planets

Another problem of this kind may be the result of an unaspected planet. Venus might be unaspected - in any house, but particularly the seventh. Similarly, if Uranus is unaspected that may also indicate a special kind of necessary independence. Or Saturn may show a need for solitude (especially in the twelfth house). These unaspected planets show that there is, within the subject, a lack of psychological integration in the area of friendships. IfVenus is unaspected in the seventh, the subject will want a relationship, often desperately, but will be unable to develop or maintain one fully, or even take the necessary steps to start one. The problem could show up in different ways in other areas of the chart. Be careful not to get out of your depth. It is important that you remember your limitations, even when you are an experienced astrologer. If your subject is unhappy you must advise therapy - analysis, if it can be afforded, otherwise perhaps some sort of group therapy.Marriage an dR emarria

Toby, Linda an cl Millv

Case History

Toby was first married to Linda. The marriage failed and after a few years they divorced. I.ater Toby met Milly and remarried. They are extremely happy and have two children and very successful careers.

Toby and Linda’s charts

There are some powerful relationships between Toby’s and Linda’s charts, but most are not conducive to a harmonious relationship. His Uranus in the same position as her Ascendantshows a dynamic attraction, but it is a tense indication. In addition, his Moon opposing her Midheaven and Mercury is also tense and indicative of different emotions about the direction of their lives. Her Saturn squares his Sun and Venus, and her Uranus his Ascendant, while conversely, her Venus is well placed in his seventh house. Often aspects between Saturn and Venus give relationships permanence and fidelity; but because there are squares here, not only involving Saturn and Venus but also an Ascendant and Uranus, the result is a depressing influence.

Friendship is indicated between his Mercury and her Venus and both their Mercurys in conjunction in Pisces (they are still on good speaking terms!). The strong conjunction between his Ascendant and her Neptune made its mark when an idealistic, romantic relationship turned to misunderstanding and disillusionment.

Toby’s Midheaven and Pluto share Leo with Linda’s Moon, Jupiter and Pluto. These are powerful and highly charged indications, but it seemed that Pluto’s influence, intensified by the Moon and Jupiter, had a blocking effect, supported by Toby’s Sun creating opposition to IJnda’s Pluto. Here an opposition works negatively, instead of bringing out the best of a polarity.

Toby and Milly

When we compare Toby’s and Milly’s charts we find a different picture. First is the conjunction between Toby’s Moon and Milly’s Sun; in addition there is Toby’s Mercury (the Moon ruler) and Milly’s Sun, and his Sun opposes her Midheaven. There is also opposition

Very pleasant

Strenuous polarity with Virgo, due to Sun opposition Pluto, Moon opposition Midheaven

Emotional compatability

There is also a strong Virgo/Pisces polarity at work and three striking indications are the shared Ascendant, Midheaven and Mars signs. The couple recognize each other’s faults, but the negativin’ that might arise is countered by their ability to communicate.

The emotional content of the relationship is high (controlled by the rational Virgo influence, however) and both are fully aware that quarrels could cause problems, because the joint Mars fall in Toby’s second house. The enterprising opposition between his Jupiter and her Mars is another controlling factor, as is the pleasant trine between her Jupiter and his Moon.

There are no aspects between their respective Venus and Mars, but their sexual relationship is taken care of by their joint Scorpio Ascendants, and the fact that the two Mars arc in a house with sexual/emotional overtones.

Milly has a tense Moon/Uranus conjunction which, because there is 'ittle age difference between them, is by Toby’s Uranus. Again e high emotional impact is resolved rough logic and discussion.

pectations for the future

by approached Julia before getting gaged because he didn’t want to risk er mistake; at first Julia was concerned about the heavy influence of his Saturn, not only in conjunction with the Ascendant in his chart, but also making the same relationship to Milly’s. But this planet seems to act as a stabilizer for both of them, especially as his Jupiter makes a contrasting trine to her Saturn; in addition many minor trines and sextiles add ease. Despite problems, there is enough rapport for the partners in this energetic relationship to overcome difficulties.

Business Relationships

Look for the following in the charts of business partners for indications of a successful partnership:

♦ The two partners need to share their ambitions and hopes for the project, so it is an excellent indication if one partner’s Midheaven and Midheaven ruler is in opposition or trine aspect to, or the polar sign of, the other’s Ascendant, Midheaven or personal planets. For instance, partner Y’s Midheaven is Scorpio and the Midheaven ruler Pluto; partner Z’s Sun, Moon or Ascendant is Taurus. In this case, involvement between Y’s Venus (Taurus’ ruler) and Z’s Midheaven would also be useful.
♦ Indications of a good relationship on all levels, as in other branches of svnastry, will be especially helpful. In other words, strong aspects between the Suns, Ascendants, Moons or ruling planets/signs of both of the partners. Here again, pay special attention to each partner’s seventh house, and also to the sixth house, since this shows the individual’s attitude towards routine work and discipline.
♦ Strong second/cighth house links, for financial reasons. These will show rapport in this vital area of business.
♦ It may be that one partner needs to be extrovert (mostly fire and air, perhaps) if they are a “front” man or woman, while the other, who might be termed a “sleeping” partner or behind- the-scenes worker, will benefit from having a strong, well-aspectcd Saturn,indicating common sense and a practical outlook. A predominance of the earth element is also very useful.
♦ One partner may well need to have an eye for practical detail - if, for instance, the business involves factory work or production. This trait is also essential when contracts have to be drawn up and signed. An emphasis on Virgo or Scorpio, for example, will be an asset. The other may need to enjoy challenge and cautious risk-taking. Aries, or a strong Mars, Sagittarius or a strong Jupiter will help. Good communication and selling ability is usually present when there is an emphasis on Gemini and Mercury.
♦ In general, look out for contrasting personality traits that will complement each other.

Appropriate businesses

It is always necessary when advising business partners to consider the kind of business with which they arc concerned, or which they are thinking of starting. Look to the planet which rules that type of business: i.e., you would expect Venus to be concerned with the beaut)’ and luxury trades, or perhaps a florist’s shop; a well-aspected and w’cll-placed Moon would be encouraging if partners w'ere thinking of starting a restaurant or hotel; a good, strong Saturn would support an estate agency or any business concerned with communications. A business is its owners’ “baby”, and work of this kind is not unlike advising parents about a child’s chart.

Friends and

Business Partners

Case History

Tony and Peter worked together for over 20 years and were friends for much longer. The chart opposite clearly indicates their friendship. The materialistic side of the partnership is emphasized by the extremely potent second/eighth house polarity involving shrewd Cancer and aspiring Capricorn.

The contributions of each partner

The couple sparked each other into action, but Tony was the dominant partner. His Saturn, right on Peter’s Ascendant, expresses this. However, Peter’s Aries Sun and fiery Leo Ascendant were also strong forces, and while he responded to Tony’s ideas and suggestions through his sensitive, subtle Cancerian Moon level, he added balance and energy to the relationship.

There are several more interesting polar influences: Tony’s Mars opposes Peter’s Mercury. The sparks flew, but Tony’s sense of humour, and Taurus/ Scorpio love of life, were excellent balancing factors, and between them the two men were great achievers.

Evidence from sign polarities Although we must be cautious when interpreting sign polarities, it is worth noting (because here personal planets and the angles of the two charts are involved) that by sign Tony’s Jupiter opposes Peter’s Mars, and Tony’s Uranus opposes Peter’s Ascendant. Tony’s Midheaven opposes Peter’s Mercury and Uranus. Original ideas for furthering their work were abundant and they combined business with pleasure, but often worked a 20-hour day. They also travelled extensively - sometimes to countries to which other people had considerable difficult)' in obtaining entry. They enjoyed fighting bureaucracy and w'ere adept at reaching the ears of important people - like heads of governments - whom they met to further their business interests.

Mars in Sagittarius in the fifth house in Peter’s chart indicates a very strong gambling streak. Because Mars was the Sun- and Midheaven-ruler, this trait

needed particularly stringent control - which Tony was able to provide for Peter. Upon Tony’s death, gambling became an increasingly important activity for Peter, and with quite disastrous results, as might be imagined. The weakness in Peter’s character is shown by Neptune conjuncting the Ascendant, and Mercury being not well placed in Pisces.

Aspect Grid

Tins shows all the aspects between the charts of Tony and Peter. Although the dynamic sign polarities do not show up, the number of powerful square aspects, plus the Moon opposition and the energetic, lively but tense opposition between Tony’s Mars and Peter’s Uranus, arc very striking.

A Powerful Relationship

The centre of the chart shows Tony’s natal planets’ positions, Ascendant and Midheaven. Peter’s are placed in the outer ring. The strength of the relationship, both in friendship and more materially is vety pronounced. The ideal indication of friendship is Tony’s Venus (strengthened by the fact that it is his Sun ruler) in conjunction with Peter’s Mercury. Although we only allow an orb of 5° in synastry, Tony’s

Mercury is only 6° away from Peter’s Venus. These configurations involve the fifth and sixth houses, indicating a creative friendship with joint risks (fifth house) and with much hard work (sixth house). Note that the materialistic side of the partnership is emphasized not only by the potent second/ eighth house polarity but also by their Moons being in opposition and by Pluto - here in an extreniely financial mood.The Family

Fortunately in a great many countries the birth time is noted on the birth certificate, though sadly this is not the case in England, Wales or Northern Ireland. Scodand fares better, as do many other European countries and the USA. Even so, it is important to remember that these birth times are usually rounded up to the nearest quarter of an hour, and when we are working on the timing of trends in our lives, we need greater accuracy than that. However, many more fathers are now attending births, so give all the encouragement you possibly can to ensure the birth time, which should be taken from the baby’s first cry, is accurately timed.

The astrological family tree

Just as there is a genetic pattern running through generations of families, so there is an astrological one. This docs not usually emerge at the superficial Sun sign level (although it is true to say that in many families there are clusters of birthdays), but if we examine the fully calculated charts of several generations, we find that it can clearly be seen. In particular, the relationship between grandparents’ and grandchildren’s charts is well worth studying. So often a grandchild has a special affinity with a grandparent, which shows up in a quite remarkable way when their charts arc calculated.

If you spend some time working on this theory', especially if the birth times of the older generation arc known to you, you will make some very revealing discoveries. For instance, if a child has a very close relationship with her grandmother, you may well discover that the child’s Ascendant sign is the same as the grandmother’s Sun sign. Very often the respective Ascendant

and Sun occupy the same degree of that sign! On pp. 170-1 you will see the birth charts of three generations from the same family. These were Scottish births, so the birth times were recorded on the certificates, and with the aid of a family Bible we were able to trace the grandparents’ birth times.

Premature babies

How do premature babies fit into the astrological family tree? In recent years medical science has discovered that it is the baby that signals to the mother when it is ready to be born, and in all genuine premature births the astrological inheritance is unbroken. However, w'hen we come to Caesarian and induced births it is a different story'.

Firstly you must reassure the parents, or mother-to-be who knows she is to have a Caesarian, that everything will be well from an astrological point of view. However, some of the more potent astrological links between the members of the family may be broken. While as an individual the child will be fine, he may not fit into the family pattern as well as others who were born at their chosen time.

Breaking harmony

This breaking of the astrological family inheritance is much more likely to happen in certain countries than in others - especially where the doctor wants to have lunch or a siesta! A birth that is advanced by an hour or so from its natural time brings this problem most powerfully into focus, since that child’s Ascendant is likely to be the sign before the natural one. Consequently this vitally important area of the child’s chart is out of harmony with the rest of the family. Of course this doesn’t make the child any less nice or clever than his siblings: the chances of his fully integrating will simply be less. Try to encourage the parents-to-be not to allow induction of labour unless, of course, it is essential for the safety of the mother or the child, or for other medical reasons.

The adopted child

In many countries it is even more difficult to discover the birth time of an adopted child. In such a case your work will be limited, though as you gain experience you may be able to assess a possible birth time; but this will be only speculative at best. It will take a considerable amount of patience over a long period of time to come to any conclusions, but it will be an intriguing trail to follow.

Suggestions, not statements

Especially when a baby has just made its appearance, parents are usually sufficiently starry-eyed to grasp enthusiastically at any suggestion about its talents. Always be careful to suggest rather than make definite statements. Instead of telling them they have an infant Leonardo, suggest that if the child shows an early love of art, she might be given some paints or modelling clay and encouraged to use them.The Family

The astrological family tree

Premature babies

Breaking harmony

The adopted child

Suggestions, not statements

There arc certain rules you should follow when working on children’s charts for their parents.

Adopt a Systematic Approach Construct your analyzes by making notes, and following the zodiac trail precisely (see pp.140).

Write the Report

You will write the report for the baby’s parents, of course, rather than for the child - and “write” is the operative word. A written report is much better than merely talking about the child. If you find typing or word-processing a bore, then write the report by hand and speak it into a tape recorder. This is important because the parents, while wanting to study it carefully as soon as it arrives, will also want to refer to it as the child grows up.

Take Data From the Parents When asked to study a child’s chart you should always take the parents’ birth data and calculate their charts too. Remember that die child’s chart shows the exact transiting planets’ positions for the mother at the time of birth. For instance, you may find the Moon and Mars are prominent in the baby’s chart and make transiting aspects to the planets’ positions in the mother’s chart.

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Consider the Whole Family

You may not need to spend a great deal of time interpreting the parents’ charts, but you should have them at hand, since from them not only can you see in what areas the child takes after which parent, but can also make very practical suggestions about the areas of life in which the child will benefit most from the father’s guidance, and where the mother will have the greater and more positive influence. It may also be necessary to calculate the charts of brothers and sisters, if there are any, since it can be helpful for the parents to see how the child will relate to them, and indeed how they will relate to the newcomer. In particular, look for any indications of possible jealousy, either in the chart on which you are working in detail, or in the siblings’ charts, then make suggestions for combating this.

Here too is more fodder for the astrological heredity game - see just how much the siblings share by way of common signs or planets’ positions or aspects, since sometimes some of these will be common to two or more charts in the family.

Take the Child’s Side

It is important to take the child’s side in this area of astrology. Try to see the family through his or her eyes. For instance, you may have parents who are very forward-looking and want to bring up their child in a very free and liberal way. Hut on examining the chart you might discover that the child is very conventional and needs an above- average amount of emotional security, to be told exactly what to do, and will thrive on a rather strict discipline. You will have to convey such points to the parents, which might not be easy. The reverse could also be true: conventional parents with a freedom-loving child, or one who needs a great deal of warmth and affection while the parents are keen to send him off to boarding school. Constantly watch for such problems, and try to make suggestions which you know will make the child happier and therefore more content, fulfilled and eventually successful.

Spotting Talent

Some charts will speak very clearly to you, perhaps shouting out that a child has a considerable gift for music. (For such a specific talent to be really marked it must show up in several different and independent areas of the chart.) Don’t, as a result of this, tell the proud parents they’ve given birth to another Mozart, but certainly suggest that, if the youngster expresses a desire to learn to play an instrument, they shouldn’t ignore the plea. If real talent exists, this will allow it to materialize though, of course, generous encouragement is necessary once the potential begins to develop.

Making Suggestions for Leisure

It is important for parents to fill their children’s leisure hours with as many out-of-school interests as possible. Look to the signs and influences of the Moon in both parents’ chans to sec how they will respond to your suggestions, especially if some seem a little far-fetched! It is worth remembering that involvement in an interest may develop into a career at a later date. However, you will not forget to assess career potential. Make rather general suggestions as to what the child will probably need from a psychological point of view: to be emotionally involved in his work or simply to make money? State whether he is humanitarian and best working for the good of others, or basically creative or scientific.

Making Suggestions for Health

Assessment of health is also very useful. Don’t be afraid to get back to basics.

For instance, if the child has a Ixo Ascendant or Sun, suggest any form of exercise that will help strengthen the spine and keep the circulation and heart in good order. A child with a Taums Sun or Ascendant may have a sweeter tooth than most children, making him prone to putting on weight. A prominently Cancerian baby may fret and worty, perhaps crying more than most. He or she will be sensitive to atmospheres, which can also cause problems.

Using Detailed Progressions It is not usual to work on detailed progressions when w riting an analysis of a baby’s chart, but do look briefly at the coming trends. There may be some heavy transits on the way which suggest the child will develop all those nasty childish illnesses over a year or so. A flurry of help from Jupiter could mean particularly good progress at school. Heavy transits from Uranus might indicate a difficult time, and so on.

However, there is a time when detailed progressions will be an asset: when the parent’s relationship is rocky or they thinking of parting. You can see, both from the child’s birth chart and by the progressions and transits, how the child will react.

Encourage Challenges Finally, all children experience their first Jupiter Return around the age of 12. At this time encourage the parents to allow the child to enter competitions, take tests or exams in out- of-school subjects (they could win some sort of prize or scholarship) or, if at all possible, travel abroad or visit some special place which could get their minds moving in an interesting way. They will certainly respond well to challenge or any kind of intellectual stimulation at this time.Following a Family Tree

It is rarely possible for an astrologer to follow an astrological family tree through more than a couple of generations. It can be made extremely difficult because it is not always possible to obtain all of the correct birth-times of the various family members. Those members of the family whose charts are shown here were born in Scotland, where, happily, all birth- times are duly recorded on birth-certificates.Following a Family Tree

Shares mother’s

Ascendant Edward’s Midheaven

Shares Isobcl’s Ascendant

Shares Isobcl’s Moon sign

This area of astrology, like all others, needs special thought and care, and the ability to view the chart from yet another angle. Here we hope to put you on the right track. Of necessity, we make some generalizations - there

Points to Consider

Always carefully study the chart of your subject before you make any decisions as to which direction or area of work you eventually suggest. The following guidelines will give you a basic structure from which to work:

I

The Ascendant sign

Consider the Ascendant to decide the subject’s motivation. Will she be assertive, enthusiastic, work hard?

The Midheaven

The Midhcavcn will show aspirations; the subject will identify with careers associated with that sign.

The Sun sign

The Sun sign gives clues as to how your subject will express herself at work and in the context of her career.

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The Moon

The Moon tells how the subject will respond to changing situations and colleagues; how well she will be able to stand on her own feet, or otherwise; how she will react to different customers, a working environment, and so on. The Moon sign and maybe house w ill also tell you whether she can cope with a bustling environment or needs quiet.

The First and Twelfth Houses Compare these two houses. Pay special attention to any planets in either or both of these houses. If a personal planet is in the twelfth house,arc always exceptions - but if you proceed with care you are far less likely to fall into the sort of traps to w hich many popular writers on astrology succumb (“If you’re Pisces you must be a monk or a nun”!) it may be that your subject will get greater fulfillment and feel more secure and happy working away from the public eye, not having to deal w'ith strangers. But if there is a personal planet in the first house she may be very' extrovert and therefore will become bored or lonely in isolation.

The Sixth House

The sixth house may indicate how disciplined the subject is, how she will cope with routine w'ork (for even in the most glamorous jobs there is usually a certain amount of chores or regular tasks that must be done) and how punctual she will be.

The Seventh House

Look at the seventh house, especially if she has to work closely with one other person, undergoing some kind of practical training, or if she is to be a personal assistant. It will show how she will cope with her boss - and how her boss will cope with her!

Health Considerations

For health look at the Ascendant, Sun, Moon, ruling planet, first and sixth houses. If demands will be made on her physical energy (Sun and Mars), assess its strength. If she is of a nervous disposition or tense, could she become easily distressed? If she is going to work in a big store are her feet going to play up?

There may be some strong planets around the top of the chart - Saturn, Uranus or perhaps the Sun or Mars.

These will definitely have a bearing on the career, and it is important that you pay special attention to the basic house and sign interpretations. Some of them will suggest a need to be in a powerful position; others will show that there must be psychological involvement and fulfillment.

The Aspects

As you work through the various areas of the chart, don’t ignore the aspects - some may indicate a specific talent. If so, and the planets concerned arc personal, what is suggested by them could be worthwhile, especially if a similar or identical theme occurs in other areas of the chart.

The Importance of Money Money is important to all of us, but it can be a crucial factor when considering career matters. Perhaps your subject will take a job simply in order to make money? If so, you must do all you can to encourage a deep involvement in some interest which will make demands on spare time, in order that life is not just a boring routine of w ork and shopping. In such cases there is either a powerful desire to see an ever- increasing figure in the bank statement, or the individual really wants to do something quite different and maybe pay for expensive training with a view to turning professional at a later date. Alternatively, perhaps the money earned is simply to tide the subject over while she studies, or works to a high standard in sport, for instance. If so, advise an undemanding physical job if the real objective is physically demanding, and an undemanding intellectual job if, for instance, your subject is slaving away at study or perhaps writing a novel outside their working hours.

The Importance of Age Age is important especially if your subject is returning to work after a break - for instance, after staying at home to bring up children. You may have to decide just how easy it will be for her to take a refresher course in an area in which she already has experience. In all cases of this kind it is important to assess the trends working for your subject to see how good the chances are of actually getting a job.Traits to Look for in a Chart

ost professions and careers can be placed under the following headings. One or more will emerge from your study of the chart, and, having paid special attention to the points listed opposite, it should now be possible to move on to this area and discover where your subject’s potential will be most rewardinglv expressed. Within these sections there will, of necessity', be cross-references. For instance, many creative people need to be scientific in their approach to their work, while scientists need creative flair to move research projects forward; practical people - builders, plumbers, farmers - need good business sense if they are to cope with their book-keeping, and people in the service industries may need to have physical strength.

Creative Ability This shows up in a variety of indications, but it is important to remember that creativity covers an extremely wide field. You are just as creative if you are a cook, a hairdresser or a ballet dancer - it is in no way restricted to fine arts. Basically, look for a well-placed Sun - the sign may well tell you the inherent type of creativity. For example, the Sun in Leo suggests painting or colourful design, and acting when in aspect to Jupiter from Leo. A predominandv Cancerian chart suggests cooking. The earth signs show flair for craftwork in natural materials or restoration. Aries suggests all kinds of work with metals. Writing and literature are common with Gemini and Sagittarius, aspects between Mercury and Jupiter, Virgo and some- umes Aquarius. A powerful Venus suggests skill in music, dressmaking and embroidery', though this is more often appreciative than practical. Musical ability is often attributed to a Capricorn or Taurus Sun sign and a strong Saturn. Neptune can give inspiration to creative potential and sometimes skill for poetry writing, dance, lyrical movement and ice skating. The fifth house is also relevant.

Scientific Ability Saturn and Uranus are the scientific planets, with Saturn also giving flair for mathematics. Look, too, for decisiveness and quick thinking - Mercury and Mars. Those with Pluto strongly placed, often rising in Ixo or Virgo, can often show’ ability' w'ith computers and modern technology. The signs of Capricorn and

Aquarius can be emphasized. Aquarius/ Uranus and Gemini/Mercury influences may steer the individual towards space and telecommunications, and Saturn towards the more traditional sciences.

Practical Ability

Most often the earth signs are prominent in this area, especially in the building trades, architecture, agriculture and land management. A strong Mars is good for engineering, whilst prominent Scorpio, Pluto and Mars are good for mining and plumbing. Think in terms of Neptune and Pisces for the fishing industry', boat and shoe trades. A well- aspected Saturn will give practical ability and patience.

Service

A flair for teaching young children is often shown by a prominent Cancer or Virgo. Teaching students at the university level is indicated by Sagittarius and a strong Jupiter. For the medical profession, look for Virgo and Scorpio, and sometimes Aries for surgery and psychiatry'; Cancer for paediatric work; Capricorn for dentistry and osteopathy; Virgo is often attracted to the complementary medicines and diet. Virgo/ Pisces and Cancer arc good for nursing. Gemini and a strong Mercury help in selling. Taurus and libra are useful in all areas of the fashion industry and beauty trades. Aries and libra often make for good military types; those with a strong Cancer, Moon or water signs do especially well in the navy and working on cruise liners; airline employees are often shown by a combination of air and water signs. The law is Jupiter’s domain, although Jupiter with Neptune suggests work of a religious nature. The police force and detective work attracts Aries, Scorpio, sometimes Virgo, Mars and Pluto. The media is rife with predominantly Geminian and Virgoan types.

Business

The highly motivated business magnate is often spurred on tow ards success by ambition, and so may well prove to have a very strong Saturn. Business sense is usually shown by a well-aspected Moon - often in Cancer or Taurus. The second and eighth houses will be emphasized, as will Pluto, often Scorpio and Virgo. A gambling instinct is shown by Jupiter or Mars in Sagittarius or die fifth house, but these will need controlling. Most money making types have the need for a feeling of security' - that is usually their most basic motivation. This need for securityis likely to encompass areas of emotional as well as financial security and again is strongly linked to Taurus and sometimes also to Cancer.

Humanitarian

Those in the caring professions are often prominantly Cancerian or Piscean, with the Sun or a personal planet in the twelfth house. They are deeply interested in people and find inner satisfaction in helping them and improving their lot. Be very careful that a subject expressing a desire to enter such a profession is not, in some roundabout way, expressing a power complex. Look for kindness, consideration and sensidv- itv rather than, say, a strongly placed Pluto, Saturn or Uranus, or any indication of Leo bossiness. However, the Uranus/Aquarius influence at its best can be extremely humanitarian, with these people working in a very practical way - doing fieldwork for internadonal charities, for instance.

Physical

It is essential to assess the individual’s physical energy level through the influence of the Sun and Mars. Should there be a desire to take up professional sport or any physically demanding profession, ask yourself just how well the nervous system will cope with the inevitable strain and tension of international comperirion on the way up, and keeping the necessary’ level of perfection having “made it”.

Organizational

Organizational ability is usually represented by an emphasis on Leo or Capricorn. The Moon in Leo usually high in the sky (i.e. in the tenth house of the chart) shows the ability to cope with large groups of people (many orchestral conductors have this placing). Scorpios are usually well organized, while Virgoans, having the reputation for being tidy (though we doubt that this is the case), need to know precisely w hat is required before going on to do it, but often lack the confidence to take the iniriarive. However, as is the case with Scorpios, Virgoans can be obsessional over small details. The go- between - say, an agent w ho organizes contracts - needs to be assertive and strong, but also to have superb organizing ability’; look to Aries for the assertiveness. Positive aspects between the Sun and Moon and Saturn show discipline and order. Conversely, Pisces and Cancer may often be chaotically untidy and disorganized.

less difficult than you think to draw up a list of possible careers, though on the whole you should only do this if your subject has absolutely no idea about what she wants to do.

Job satisfaction

It usually follows that the greater the level of psychological integration in a personality, the greater the need for job-satisfaction. Someone who is psychologically strong is far more likely to be upset or disturbed by long working days in which there is no psychological involvement, with work that is soul-destroyinglv unrewarding. If circumstance dictates such an existence, the individual will no doubt fill his or her precious spare time with a fulfilling involvement in some sort of consuming interest. But if this is not the case you should make suggestions along those lines. In such a situation, search the chart for potential. There could be a flair for languages, history or perhaps music.

Remember, it is up to astrologers to help make their subjects’ lives more fulfilling, rewarding and worthwhile. If possible, and if your subject is capable, suggest some kind of study course which could lead to career improvement and in time perhaps secure a release from a dreary job.

The lonely top job

This is one of the most difficult problems to cope with. Very often an ambitious person who is successful has the chance of promotion to a top job. In many ways there will be a natural desire to take it, for the sake of additional prestige, more money and respect from colleagues. However, the individual will be cut off from colleagues, not only responsible for serious decision-making but also all too often given far less opportunity to actually do the work he or she was trainee! to do. With the job comes administration and more administration. This is particularly so in the

teaching profession, or when a senior nursing sister is promoted to matron.

When this happens you must look to the chart in quite a different way, to discover whether your subject can cope with the loneliness - some love it! - or whether, in being cut off, she may become indecisive or even go to pieces due to a lack of rapport with colleagues. Most importantly, if she is really dedicated to the actual work she does, she may be ready to make such a sacrifice. If not, perhaps she will be happier and more fulfilled in not accepting die appointment. But then, if there are family responsibilities, she may well need the extra cash.

Talking things through

These are complicated questions.

Often by talking them through with subjects you will help them to sec things more clearly and make their own decisions. If this happens you should feel really satisfied. Remember that this is another case when you should very definitely not make up your subjects’ minds for them.

The dreadful boss Sometimes a subject will consult you because she is being plagued by an awful boss; being sexually harassed or imposed upon, given too much work or not enough responsibility. It is most unlikely that you will be able to work on the superior’s chart in any detail, though your subject may be able to get hold of a birth date from a personnel file. In such a case you must compare the two charts as described on pp. 152-5, but will have to concentrate on your subject’s chart to help her gain strength and self-confidence. If you have the superior’s chart you will get some idea, even without an Ascendant or Midheaven, of what he or she is like, and should be able to reassure her. But it will probably be a question of her having to prove to herself that she can stand up to her boss, and if necessary ask quite directly for her rights. It may be that there is poor communication between them. Above all, be positive and firm - if you are too kind and sympathedc, you may not get her energy’ working in the way it needs. If you have had such an experience remember it in your own mind, but don’t regale her with it!A buccessful 1 businessman

Case History

This is the chart of a highly successful businessman who formed his ow n company. The progressed positions are those operative at the time of the company’s inauguration.

The drive, energy, enthusiasm and
breadth of vision of this man is shown

by the Aries Ascendant and the close conjunction with Jupiter in the first house. That he enjoyed taking a gamble is also shown by this area of his chart, but these powerfully positive, daring qualities are countered by the shrewdness of his Cancer Sun sign, thecaution of the Virgo Moon and creative thinking of Mercury in Leo.

An element of eccentricity and unpredictability is emphasized by Mars, the chan ruler, high in the sky in Aquarius in the tenth house. Richard exhausts himself because he hardly ever stops working. These tendencies are indicated by the Sun conjunct Pluto opposition Mars. It is easy to see the direction of the energy through the Mars house placing. Notice that this is a bucket chart, with the all-important Mars as the “handle” - a striking example of a chart of this particular type. The Moon conjunct Neptune in Virgo in the sixth is well aspected by Uranus, and as Uranus rules the Mars sign, and the Moon is additionally powerful as it is the Sun ruler: this area of the chart is well integrated.

Progressions

Note the progressions at the time of the inauguration: Mars is fully focused by the progressed Midheaven making a conjunction to the planet’s natal position, and the progressed Midheaven is at the same time changing signs. The progessed Ascendant was previously in contact with the natal Mars, while the progressed Sun is making a minor quincunx aspect to the progressed .Mars, that planet in turn making a strong trine aspect to the natal Moon. This progression is intensified because the chart-ruler and Sun-ruler are working positively together. At roughly the same time Saturn was, by transit, about to cross the Ascendant, showing the commitment, possible strain and additional responsibility such an undertaking always entails. However, Richard's positive enthusiasm and will to succeed are clearly shown.

The caring employer

Richard, despite appearances, is very sensitive and caring and keen to look after his employees and partners. No matter how busy he is he will always find time to listen to their ideas, or to their troubles. While he pours all his energy into his work and suffers from considerable strain and exhaustion at times, he gets a certain amount of respite from business commitments, enjoying his home and family life. He has a powerfully spiritual side which gives him inner strength.A New Job?

Sooner or later you will probably be asked about the possibility' of a client getting a new job. While you must not be dogmatic, it is possible to stick your neck out just a little, provided you also offer constructive suggestions and give advice that your subject can follow up.

Generally speaking, it will be necessary to concentrate more on progressions and transits than the birth chart, but of course you will have gone through many of the stages mentioned earlier in this section of the book before beginning to answer the question or assess your subject’s situation.

A great deal depends on how assertive, enterprising and disciplined the subject is, how much a job is actually wanted, and so on. Having considered these points, what is the next stage?

How the job offer may appear You will know from your general study of the meanings of the houses and the earlier comments in this section, that if your subject looks as if she is going to be offered a job out of the blue, the chances are that there will be positive and strong directions to the Midheaven; but if die job comes about through her writing an application, it is most likely that the Ascendant or personal planets arc being activated by positive transits, progressions or the short-lived lunar progressions.

Interpreting influences

Do not expect to see only pleasant groups of Jupiter transits, for these expansive trends are not the only indications of such an achievement. Remember that with a new job also comes responsibility’ and often strain and tension, so there could easily be a conjunction or positive transit from Saturn to the Midheaven at the time of the new appointment, indicating additional responsibility' and prestige. Exciting and unexpected career developments can occur when there is a transit of Uranus to the Midheaven. It may be that the ruling planet is one of the fast-moving planets - Mercury' Venus or Mars - and quite minor transits from these planets can be significant provided there is some back-up from long-term progressions or other transits.

Keep an open mind, since you may well find that someone - especially where Saturn is concerned - could achieve a prestigous job, whereas someone else under an identical transit might well be asked to leave! Distinguishing between contradictory interpretations of the same influence is where skill and experience come in.

But there are ways of checking your conclusions. A golden rule when faced with such dilemmas in this or any other area of astrological interpretation, when you have to assess a questionable influence from a transiting planet, is to look at its placing in the birth chart. If it is reasonably well-placed and not too negatively aspected, its influences as it moves round the sky will often be constructive. A negatively aspected Jupiter, perhaps squared by Pluto or even the Moon, will be far less helpful than a well-aspectcd Saturn which in the birth chart has constructive and positive aspects from the Sun or Moon.

BLA, BLA, BLA DA KEKA

sábado, 29 de junho de 2019

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