Venus in Aquarius in music

Alexandre Cabanel, The Birth of Venus

I have a face I cannot show,
I make the rules up as I go,
It's try and love me if you can,
Are you strong enough to be my man?

(Sheryl Crow)

The final Air Sign, Aquarius, is probably the most difficult to pin down as we're dealing with a sign that is the master of the unconventional. So how do we explain love (Venus) when it's exactly what we don't expect (Aquarius)?

We can start by establishing that these people seek unconventional relationships and don't like to go by the rules. In fact, Aquarius (being co-ruled by Uranus and Saturn) usually make their own rules, so you'd better be prepared to deal with an independent partner. Janis Joplin (Capricorn Sun) warns: I ain't the kind of woman who'd make your life a bed of ease. But if you just wanna go out drinking, honey, won't you invite me along please. Dido (also a Capricorn) presents herself: I am what I am, I'll do what I want. She explains: if you tell me that i can't, i will, i will I'll try all night and if I say i'm coming home, i'll probably be out all night. Sheryl Crow (Sun in Aquarius) asks: Why should I solidify? and she tears down all illusions about her: I guess you thought I'd I'd seed my clouds with the rain of your personal dreams, I guess you thought I'd throw confetti at your parade of lofty thoughts.

Usually their own rules follow their very high principles of how the World should be, or in the specific case of Venus in Aquarius how love should be. Yes, they've probably given it a lot of thought and have high ideals of love, which they'll try very hard to maintain.

Aquarius is the paradigm of Air signs, constantly distracted by ideas (Dave Matthews, Capricorn Sun, writes: My head won't leave my head alone and I don't believe it will until I'm dead and gone), trying to figure out the logic and explanation of things and having futuristic visions about the Ideal World. They are concerned with Mankind (listen to Janis Joplin: Believe in your brother, have faith in man, help each other honey if you can) and with Venus in Aquarius they'll love people, they're even prepared to sacrifice their interests in favour of a wider benefit. Sheryl Crow explains: The World will turn even when we're gone, the Earth will host many souls to come. Remember that this sign opposites individuality-centered Leo, here the Collective is more important.

And yet they might love people and not love the individuals. They might be too busy trying to live by their principles to stop and get to know themselves and the people around them. They seem a bit aloof because they have difficulties relating to others. Remember that being an Air sign they don't deal well with emotions, these seem contrary to logic and so they fear and repress them. Here's Sheryl Crow worrying about that: Afraid of feeling nothing, No bees or butterflies. It may be endearing (or not) to find someone who is so brilliant in terms of ideas and so completely clueless and naive in emotional areas. You can thus expect a Venus in Aquarius lover to be anything but romantic, mushy and emotional - all these things seem unreasonable to them and they'll run from emotional scenes and teary-eyed partners like a cat from a bath.

Instead what they seek and need from a relationship is plenty of space to express their originality and individuality, someone who they can talk to and that they find interesting, a lot of tolerance and understanding. They are happy to provide all of this in return, as Dave Matthews testifies: Do what you will always, walk where you like, your steps, do as you please, I'll back you up. Yes, I mentioned space, as they need personal freedom at all times (I lost count of the times the word free came up at the lyrics, but here's some examples: For this queen you think you own wants to be a hunter again, wants to see the world alone again, to take a chance on live again, so let me go/ the crown you placed upon my head feels too heavy now (Dido); You're gonna take care of yours, I'll take care of mine + Either take this love I offer or honey let me be (Janis Joplin); but to Venus in Aquarius, love can be a source of freedom too: torn up and tied, you free me/ And if you see me could you free me with a smile so I can let go. (Sheryl Crow) she adds: There's beauty in release.

Above all what they want from a partner is a friend; someone that is supportive and loyal. It's easier to keep things near the ideal with a friend than with a lover, right? Venus in Aquarius keeps it friendly with their loved ones; they don't play games of seduction, they're too honest and even clumsy in their seduction techniques. Dido says it all about their ways of thinking with this piece: I know you think that I shouldn't still love you or tell you that, But if I didn't say it, well I'd still have felt it, Where's the sense in that?

They'll want to be admired by their unique and unconventional ways and will also be attracted by people with this profile, someone with whom they can share visions of a better future and have a varied time. Venus in Aquarius is easily bored: Dave Matthews sings: Oh I want to change it. Dido writes: I'm tired and bored of waiting for you/I'm bored of hanging out in your cold and she sighs: Oh Lord, please finally, finally things are changing. Sheryl Crow sings: "A change would do you good" and also "All I wanna do is have some fun". In her song Run Baby Run she sings about someone running from the old: past the arms of the familiar...to the comfort of the strangers slipping out before they say so long/searching through the stations for an unfamiliar song (there's thirst for the new).

Perhaps this is why I found so many lyrics about moving on. Dido: When I feel lost I just slip away...take my things and go and think what's the point? + I haven't ever really found a place that I call home, I never stick around quite long enough to make it + I'm gonna leave tonight before I change my mind. Sheryl Crow's Leaving Las Vegas fits this theme perfectly: Took your car and drove to Texas, sorry honey but I suspected we were through ...these days it seems that nowhere is far enough away. In another song she writes: Maybe we all could use a little grace to know when to run and when to stay in one place. Also: Since I left been feeling better cause that's what you get when you stay together too long - so is this boredom we're talking about? Perhaps Janis Joplin had the key: I keep moving on but I never found out why, I keep pushing so hard the dream, I keep trying to make it right. Searching for the ideal perhaps?

Venus in Libra (in music)

The most famous Venus of all - Botticelli

A little physical attraction
Romantic, old-fashioned charm

And a lot of love and tenderness
Is gonna get you into her arms

(Shania Twain)

We now arrive at Venus in Libra, the second of the signs where Venus feels right at home. There's no sign more in tune with love and relationships than Libra. They live and breathe for relating, both in love and social relationships. Probably why Freddie Mercury (Sun in Virgo)wrote a song that goes: I was born to love you, with every single beat of my heart. Venus in Libra will probably be the most traditional image we have of Venus as a partner: romantic, devoted, well-mannered, seductive, attracted to beauty...
Besides, Libra is associated with the Arts and Music in particular, so I expected to find great songwriters with Venus in Libra (or other Libra emphasis).

Let's start by establishing that love comes first. Shania Twain (Virgo Sun) asks: Is there life after love? Freddie Mercury again sings Love is all you need; Katie Melua (Virgo Sun also) confesses: Nothing else excites me but loving you. Elvis Costello (Sun in Virgo) contributes: In all the world, there's only one true love and finding it's hard enough). F. Mercury again: Funny how love is everywhere just look and see, funny how love is anywhere you're bound to be, funny how love is every song in every key.

But we shouldn't forget that Libra is first and foremost an Air sign, so even if they do constantly think of love and relationships and are able to discuss them with seeming knowledge, their ideas are mostly theoretical because emotionally they are still as childlike and naive as the other Air signs. Also like the other Air signs, Libra is extremely idealistic; they're in constant search for Beauty and to them beauty is balance and harmony, hence the scales as the symbol for this sign. Katie Melua describes fascination: You're beautiful so silently, it lies beneath a shade of blue, It struck me so violently when I looked at you. They're not immune to a pretty face.

Libra dislikes extremes so they're usually stepping from one side of the scale to the other, trying to find the right equilibrium. You can do the maths: there isn't really an absolute degree of Perfection and Ideal in the real World and so reality and the less perfect aspects of it, in particular, may be avoided. Ben Harper (Sun in Scorpio) sings: Real life has let you down, Someone stripped the jewels from your crown.

Venus in Libra will never give up searching for the right partner or trying to make their relationships better and often they succeed in making whatever's around them more pleasant and beautiful because they're willing to compromise. They are extremely dedicated to their relationships. Shania Twain sings: It takes two hearts with one beat and it takes two to say I do; in another song she writes If it don't take two and if I'm not with you, no it ain't worth going through. Freddie Mercury recognizes the work that might need to be done: yes it's a hard life, two lovers together, to love and live forever in each others hearts, it's a long hard fight to learn to care for each other, to trust in one another...

As a Cardinal sign, Libra is prone to innitiating things and they do it especially in the sphere of relationships, they have an urge to relate and seek company, that is their biggest need (does can anybody find me somebody to love ring a bell?). And it's not hard for them to do so because they're particularly charming and pleasing to talk to. They are the kind that seems to always be considering you, your opinions, your needs, your wishes. Who doesn't love to be paid attention? It is a fact that Libra is the best sign on putting themselves on other people's shoes. Freddie Mercury sings: whenever you stroll along with me I'm merely contemplating what you feel inside (isn't that lovely?). They are very aware that other people have different views on things and this awareness may even become agonizing, as they need to understand everybody's take on something before they make a move (why they're often considered indecisive). This awareness combined with their dislike for extremes makes them cautious in taking a firm position. Hence Katie Melua's song Spider's Web: the piano keys are black and white but they sound like a million colours in your mind. She asks: How do I know which is right? Shania Twain also prefers to overlook the "labels": I'm not sayin' I have all the answers and I don't care who's right or wrong.

They'll ask for your opinion all the time because they're genuinely interested. Besides it also helps to get people on their side, with the ultimate goal of creating pleasant relationships and avoiding conflict. Some might think of them as hypocrites because they always tell you what you want to hear, but they do this to avoid unpleasantness - why focus on the bad things and not on the good ones? Fair play.

But what happens when things need to be discussed? Venus in Libra will always want to talk about "the relationship", for hours preferably (Elvis Costello writes: we can talk like we're in love or talk like we're above it, we can talk and talk until we talk ourselves out of it). Nevertheless their partners are allowed to ask themselves whether the other person is being emotionally honest. The truth is that in their censorship of the darker side of things, they might now allow themselves to feel things that to them are unacceptable (e.g. jealousy, insecurity, anger). Freddie Mercury laments: jealousy, you got me somehow, you gave me no warning, took me by surprise. They think that that's not what love is about; love is supposed to be conjugated with happiness, joy and fulfillment (in their ideal world), not negative emotions. In the real world, though, you won't find a love relationship that perfect, so Venus in Libra may be tempted to love on a platonic level, in the level of the gods where bad things won't occur. And ultimately, this emotional repression will harm them because emotions always find a way of getting through (they may become depressed or snap up when you least expect them to).

In the meantime, this plantonic-ness results in inumerous lyrics of romantic fantasy. Here's only a few: We were born to ride side by side, we are always reaching for the stars and they can still be ours (Katie Melua); We spent all our days holding hands together, do you remember my love? how we danced and played, in the rain we laid, wish that we could stay there forever and ever (Freddie Mercury); I give my hand to you with all my heart, can't wait to live my life with you, can't wait to start, you and I will never be apart, my dreams came true because of you (Shania Twain).

Venus in Libra is romantic to a point that can make you uncomfortable, to say the least. I was amazed at the amount of sugary-rose-coloured-marriage-vows-kind of lyrics that I found. Elvis Costello to start off: I'll watch out for you, I'll always be there, in the hour of distress you need not fear; Shania Twain is a champion in these sort of lyrics, which is no wonder: falling in love under starlight, I do swear that I'll always be there. I'd give anything and everything and I will always care. Through weakness and strength (...) But surprisingly Freddie Mercury isn't far behind: I can dim the lights and sing you songs full of sad things, we can do the tango just for two, I can serenade and gently play on your heart strings, be your valentino just for you. They also love to share everything with you (remember fairness comes first), as Mercury testified: Give a little love to me (I want it), take a little love from me, I want to share it with you.

Are you in a sugar coma yet? No? Good! Because notice also the abbundance of romantic symbols that are mentioned. Venus in Libra is thrilled by those rituals that symbolize love: vows, gestures, marriage. Shania Twain sings: I want bells to ring, a choir to sing, the white dress, the guests, the cake, the car, the whole darn thing. Even Freddie Mercury mentions I feel so romantic and underneath the moonlight, together we'll sail across the sea, shine on silvery moonlight. In another song he describes romanticism from a Libra point of view: Dining at the Ritz, we'll meet at nine precisely, I will pay the bill, you taste the wine, driving back in style, in my saloon will do quite nicely. He finishes it up by saying: there he goes again just like a good old-fashioned lover boy. Exactly.

Being more focused on others, they often don't value themselves as much. This can make them dependant of others and their positive appreciation, which might lead them to indulge in flirty behaviour, with very little real meaning. Elvis Costello is projecting that here: But you tease, and you flirt And you shine all the buttons on your green shirt. Watch out. They are terrified of being alone: Without you now I see how fragile the world can be/And when you went I became a hopeless drifter (Katie Melua); would surely die if you dismiss me from your love/ So please don't go, don't leave me here all by myself + My baby left me alone, she done me dirty and I'm feeling so lonely (Freddie Mercury); Without you, I'm not conversational...Without you, I miss talking in the dark (Elvis Costello); I don't want to live alone (Ben Harper).

In the end their challenge is to relate but accept the good and the bad sides of their reality and understand that the bad and ugly things have their place in the World too.

Venus in Gemini (in music)

Equestrienne, Marc Chagall (1931)

Gemini is probably the most lighthearted sign Venus can ever choose to be in. It is the sign of youth - Courtney Love (Sun in Cancer) sings for her band Hole: I feel the horses coming galloping, I will never grow old and also I'm too young to be so old. Having the love planet, Venus, in this sign indicates a person who is jovial in love, who seeks variety, excitement and fun. No wonder I found lyrics that brought me colourful, bright, fresh atmospheres. The sky and the sea are mentioned often; dancing and having fun are a constant too. Courtney Love again sings: While this beating heart is still a Valentine, I'm gonna ride this thing until the wheels fall off cause girls like me we always get what we want. So let's go!

Wham (with lyrics written by George Michael - Sun in Cancer) are often a synonym of party music. For example, the classic Club Tropicana: the drinks are free, fun and sunshine, there's enough for everyone. The examples are numerous: All I'm trying to give you is a good time, honey, why do ya have to keep on playing games with my head? As a solo artist, George Michael kept his tune: My friends got their ladies, they're all having babies, I just wanna have some fun. The bright lights are present in Kylie Minogue's (Sun in Gemini) lyrics as well: You show me all the colours when I'm feeling blue, you're the brightest shining lights on Broadway, pink in evening sunsets every day. Love is equated with fun: Come join the loveboat, we're anchored offshore, martinis and bikinis, oh l'amour. Mick Hucknall (lead singer and songwriter for Simply Red - Sun in Gemini) doesn't forget the fun side: I've been out loving all night long, I can't help it, that love it makes me strong. He advises: So enjoy and live, because it's only love doing its thing baby. Once again love is happy: we have a way that seems to brighten up the day.

Gemini is extremely curious and interested in people and all sorts of other things, probably why Liz Greene describes Gemini as a butterfly. As we know, butterflies never stop in a place for very long and the way they move is completely unexpected. This also makes it harder to really understand the person: if the butterfly doesn't stop moving, you don't get to see the wings perfectly. It's no wonder that Kylie Minogue wrote a song called Butterfly. Mick Hucknall has another interesting way of expressing this constant movement: Being one of those grains of sand, I get blown all around the world.

You'll get all the time I can give, as long as you respect my freedom to live; he advises: walk around, be free and roam. Wham lyrics also mention it: Wise guys realize there's danger in emotional ties; see me, single and free, no tears, no fears, what I want to be. It can't be any clearer than that. As a solo artist, George Michael adds: Don't put your love in chains baby. This doesn't mean that these people aren't interested in love, no. Mick Hucknall seems to know the score: I got a need to be free, yet I know that I need someone and I'm calling out to you. Others put it in a more poetic way: I think it's amazing the way that love can set you free (George Michael) and Your love gives me wings (Kylie Minogue).

Venus in Gemini is not one to enjoy sitting by the fire holding hands with their "muse". They need excitement and something that seems comfortable to them means boredom and they despise that. Courtney Love sings: I'm will wait for you and when you bore me I'll be gone. Mick Hucknall explains: You're so beautiful but oh so boring, I'm wondering what am I doing here. Kylie adds: Don't blame me just because I am bored, I'm needy, I need to taste it all. And boring in this case means lack of communication.

Being ruled by Mercury, Gemini seeks communication in all aspects of life and in love relationships especially, in the case of the Geminian Venus. First of all, they are attracted to people who are communicative, secondly they use their exceptional chatty talent to win them over and thirdly they expect their relationships to be a constant trade of interesting things to say. For a person with Venus in Gemini to fall in love it's essential that the brain is stimulated. As Kylie Minogue puts it: Slow down, move to the rhythm that is in my mind. The lack of communication can lead to bitterness, Mick Hucknall sings: So many words are left unspoken, the silent voices are driving me crazy and Kylie Minogue identifies the problem as well: Desperately seeking someone willing to travel, you're lost in conversation and useless at Scrabble.

As we've seen for the Air signs in general, they are not very at ease with the emotional side of things. Kylie Minogue asks: How do you describe a feeling? Mick Hucknall also seems unable to talk about emotion: Can't explain how you make me feel, looking down is mighty real. Courtney Love describes what could be the predominance of mind over heart in Venus in Gemini: I know, I can't feel it, well I know it enough to believe it.

For Gemini being unable to see the logic of emotions leads them to avoid intensity and sometimes even fear the emotionality. George Michael sings: I'm so scared of this love and also Need a lover but love's such a dangerous place to be. Mick Hucknall explains his inadequacy: I don't know how hard it'll be when I suffer, Affection is a start for me, I hope it's gonna move on. Kylie Minogue also doesn't know how to handle it: You're asking yourself, what's real? What to do with these feelings that you have inside surreal?

Sometimes when they don't know what to do, they'll simply try to keep the emotions under control, far from the eye of their observers: Mick Hucknall sings Ooh I remember those old love letters, plagued with memories, I can't forget us, trying to fight it, trying to hide it. But other times hiding it doesn't work, for Kylie: See through me when I put up a fight, like you to see the things I hide. Go deeper than I won't let you know, I'm frightened but I won't let it show. Often this leads to more trouble: I play it cool, so cool that no-one ever understands me (Mick Hucknall). For this reason Venus in Gemini can be seen by some as superficial and cold. They are willing to talk about their relationship with you, but you might get frustrated as soon as you realize they won't go into the deeper issues.

From these examples, you've probably gathered that Venus in Gemini isn't the most willing to settle of the love signs. The trouble is that their interests change often (Courtney Love sings: Our love is quicksand, so easy to drown) and some of their relationships may not last very long (Kylie Minogue explains her logic: It mightn't last more than a day but I'll take my chances anyway, 'cause my heart is saying it's for real). Gemini is a mutable sign. Often they feel confused by what seem opposite realities inside themselves. As you probably know, the twins represent Gemini and they often feel like they're two different people and don't know whether to follow one or the other (feelings vs. reason, masculine vs. feminine). Courtney Love wrote a song called Good Sister/Bad Sister (duality). Sometimes it's hard to distinguish right from wrong as they try to keep impartial. Mick Hucknall wrote: We are so many people, living different lives under turbulent times, Oh man, we don't know good from evil. Kylie sings also: Clever girl, think you're right but what's right from wrong? Clever girl, think you are but you think too much. Yes, thinking seems to be a problem too: I've got to think twice before I give my heart away (George Michael); I'm thinking, thinking about it all, I'm sorting everything inside + Don't let anyone tell you what you think you must think (Kylie Minogue).

So Mick Hucknall reaches this great conclusion: Ideals are fine for beauty but for love they fool relationships. Ha! The sooner Venus in Gemini realizes this: that love can't be logically analysed and systematised and that feelings need to be acknowledged and dealt with, the happier they will become.

Venus in Air signs

After writing about Venus in Capricorn, I concluded the first half of the Zodiac signs (Fire and Earth) and move on now to Venus in Air signs, which at first glimpse looks like the biggest challenge for my "Venus as the Muse" study.

The Air element is more concerned with the World of Ideas and has an inner need to rationalise and objectively explain everything that surrounds them. They are able to detach and look at personal situations from a perspective other than their own, which is very useful for dealing with let-downs and unforseen circumstances, no doubt. They are positive and optimistic as long as they understand the logic of what surrounds them.

Well, as we know, Love may be a lot of things but logical is not often one of them and, on this investigation, I'm focusing mainly on love, relationships and love songs, the venusian aspects. Love and other emotions defy all kinds of systems and patterns; it is unpredictable, uncontrollable and unexplainable.

This is obviously terrifying for people that need logic and so Air signs tend to repress emotions that they can't deal with. They'll simple ignore them (unconsciously) and lack the awareness of the emotional activity that goes on deep inside of them so they'll have trouble talking about their feelings. They will talk about anything else though. Communication is absolutely essential to them and the base for any relationship they're in. They need the constant flow and exchange of ideas, sharing their thoughts with other people and hearing yours. They'll be very curious about you. In fact if you meet them at a party, you might be smitten, as they are the most charming, graceful and chatty party-goers. They'll make you laugh, ask you lots of questions and tell you about their latest crazy ideas.

Later if your relationship with an Air person becomes a little more serious, you will have trouble getting them to talk about their feelings. They feel like they don't need to because they're so unaware of that dimension. Imagine a little kid, innocent, the purest of intentions, trusting you 100% because they're profoundly idealistic. Deep down, Air types (like children) are extremely sensitive and vulnerable, but they're not able to deal with their emotional issues on a conscious level. So they might sulk when something's wrong or shut you out. And you can't force them to discuss their emotions (you can't do that with little children, can you?)

You just have to let them be, give them space and independence. Above all they look for someone to talk to, spend time with and have lots of light-hearted fun. If things get too heavy, they may be tempted to run away. They want a fun and communicative companion.

So the question for me is: is this emotional repression reflected in a lack of overtly romantic love songs? Or does the Air love for communication mean even a more frequent use of songs to express emotion? I'll have to go and see.

Venus in Capricorn (in Music)

Venus with a Mirror by Tiziano (Titian)

Makes you feel like you've been blessed

Promises things so special

Seems to come right from a song

Soon as you begin to feel secure

Turn around and he is gone

(Alicia Keys seems to describe Venus in Capricorn)

Capricorn is the sign of principles and having Venus in Capricorn indicates that love and romance are taken seriously, with responsibility. Unless you find them in the experimental-phase of their lives (before they find out what their principles are), a flirt is not on the cards.

Capricorn is known for being very goal-oriented. They like to take control of their lives and follow their ambitions, but surely love relationships can't be handled the same way they handle their business deals. And this is where the trouble begins for Venus in Capricorn. They can't tolerate lack of control over things and love relationships involve lots of uncontrolable emotions, which make them a difficult and important challenge for these people. Alicia Keys (Aquarius Sun) on love: It will forsake you, threaten to break you, take what you got. Because what is the opposite of control (Capricorn)? Vulnerability (the opposite sign - Cancer) and Capricorn will try to avoid that at all costs, as they need to show competence and self-control at all times. Feist (Aquarius Sun) tries to avoid the emotionality but fails: Closing of the stream, in hope we both stay dry, but feeling makes it through within the rush of you. She adds: The tragedy starts from the very first spark, losing your mind for the sake of your heart. She makes it really clear: Heart on my sleeve, not where it should be.

So if you're considering an involvement with someone with a Capricorn Venus, you'll find someone cautious (Alicia Keys: Before we go too far across the line, gotta really make sure that I'm sure), that keeps it cool, trying to disguise their panic at the lack of control by appearing competent, as if to say 'I'm good at this too'. Bjork (Sun in Scorpio) sings: Nobody gets the better of me. They don't want to be (seen as) dependent on someone else so, similarly to what we've seen in Virgo, self-sufficiency will be a state they'll work hard to achieve (Bjork sings: You're alright, there's nothing wrong, self-sufficience please and get to work! and also It's tricky when you feel someone has done something on your behalf). Their individual strength and independence is essential to their sense of self-worth and it's common that they have periods of celibacy. There are several mentions to this state in songs: for instance, Feist has songs named "The Onliest" and "Lonely, lonely", Bjork sings: As much as I definitely enjoy solitude, I wouldn't mind perhaps spending little time with you. Robbie Williams (Sun in Aquarius) explains: Round and round in circles, live a life of solitude, 'till we find ourselves a partner, someone to relate to, Then we slow down, before we fall down.

So eventually they will find a partner! This is no fear of commitment; in fact, Capricorn is willing to commit because their values speak higher than anything else. They want someone to share their lives with very much. They believe in family, duty and constancy. Feist sings: It's cool to love your family, I know because I love them more and more. This is one of the Venus positions more likely to rank other values above love when considering an union: stability, sharing life-goals, building a family structure. It's not that they don't marry for love. But usually they don't count only on love to build a successful partnership.

Sometimes the partner they seek will come later in life or in the form of an older partner, as Venus in Capricorn emphasizes the role of experience and time in love and relationships. Sometimes it's the simple fact that time helps the person to deal more effectively with their insecurities, making the relationships more fulfilling. Alicia Keys describes it this way: It took me maybe two years and sh*t, but I'm feeling prepared (...)And I'm feeling a little more ready for the world and less lost, as I once was. Feist says in a realistic fashion: It may be years until the day my dreams will match up with my pay. Bjork recognizes the importance of time: One day you will blossom, One day when you're ready. Alicia Keys again highlights the experience: Yes, I was burned but I called it a lesson learned.

Venus in Capricorn may also have relationships that stand the test of time because the person is extremely persistent and not willing to let go of relationships that easily. Sometimes this "glue" means that troubled relationships can be worked on. Alicia Keys explains: Sometimes it's gonna feel like it'll never be right but something so strong keeps you holding on. Other times it means that it's very hard to let go of past relationships, as described in various lyrics from my research. Alicia Keys, for instance, sings: But how do I let go when I've loved him for so long and I've given him all that I could?/ It's so hard to just let go, when this is the one and only love I've ever known. Feist asks: Be mine through time. Robbie Williams doesn't want to forget: It's not always true that time heals all wounds, There are wounds that you don't wanna heal, The memories of something really good, something truly real, that you never found again. Venus in Capricorn never forgets and memories are also a constant presence in the lyrics.

Being an Earth sign, Venus in Capricorn promises a good lover. This is not the romantic kind of partner (they don't trust their romantic impulses and keep their fantasies to themselves), nor the spontaneous. Bjork explains sweetly: You know that I adore you, you know that I love you. So don't make me say it, it would burst the bubble, break the charm. Robbie Williams also contributes: I won't sing of amore, It don't sound sincere, Love is a cliché but it fits not here. So it's a solemn, sober atitude towards relationships. They won't risk public declarations of love. Bjork sings: There lies my passion, hidden; There lies my love, I'll hide it under a blanket, I'll keep it in a hidden place. No matter how much intimacy you've reached, there's always a little secret place inside themselves that they won't share with you. It's their safety-net, where they keep their dreams and their fantasies. Alicia Keys sings: Because no one knows me underneath these clothes.

Capricorn represents the archetypal image of the Father and particularly in their earlier love relationships, a pattern of a father-child relationship may be adopted: the person either seeks a parental figure or plays the fatherly role. Generally, the Venus in Capricorn person seeks relationships where they can give or receive protection and care. Bjork sings: Comfort and protection, I'll watch over you. Feist adds: Take me in your care. But even if they are the protected part, they still need to take control over the relationship and know exactly where it's going (Bjork sings: Don't ask me what's gonna happen next, I know the future, I'd love to lead you the way, just to make it easier on you). They are solid, stable partners that want to impress you with all their competence and in return they expect you to appreciate them, as noted by Alicia Keys in her song A Woman's Worth (Wanna please, wanna keep, wanna treat your woman right; Not just dough but to show that you know she is worth your time).

Capricorn is ruled by Saturn and this is planet indicates where we need to confront our deepest fears and gain experience (to put it kindergarden-simple). Having Venus in Capricorn suggests that Venus-related things like LOVE are extremely valued but also incredibly feared because they expose our most primal fears of failure and inadequacy. It's no wonder that many lyrics mention this fear. Bjork (The thrill of fear, Now greatly enjoyed with courage); Feist (You are everything I've always feared); Alicia Keys (When you took hold, I was sold, using fear to control, now it unfolds ). Justin Timberlake (Sun in Aquarius) (Fear has got me second guessing). Not finding love leaves them broken-hearted: You analyze everyone you meet but get no sign, Love ain't kind, Every night you admit defeat and cry yourself blind (Robbie Williams). The insecurities are evident: I constantly fight my insecurities when I can't reach you by phone, sings Justin again. He also asks: Am I worthy of? Am I man enough? Am I strong enough to maintain this love? You’ve got me questioning.

So Venus in Capricorn will be confronted with these basic feelings of insecurity that, as mentioned above, can be resolved in time, using the Capricornian tools of persistance and effort. Love needs to be worked on, almost like a job.

Venus in Capricorn?

Venus in Virgo (and music)

Venus Verticordia by Dante Gabriel Rossetti [it means the changer of hearts]

Here's another great contrast from the previous sign - Venus in Virgo has a discreetness that is the opposite of the dramatism we found on Venus in Leo. Taking this into account, I expected love lyrics to be less ostentatious and exaggerated.

Like the other Earth signs, Virgo is very focused on the objective things in life. In fact, this may be the most realistic sign of them all, so even in love, Venus in Virgo won't live in the clouds but on this very precise moment and place. Suzanne Vega (Sun in Cancer): She wants to cut through the circles that she has lived in before, She wants to finally kill the delusions, she won't need them anymore.
John Lennon's (Sun in Libra) lyrics are an interesting reflection of a disillusioned man (Old Hare Krishna ain't got nothing on you, just keep you crazy with nothing to do, keep you occupied with with pie in the sky, There ain't no guru who can see through your eyes, I found out! - you see the disdain he applies to dreaming). In his song God, he sings "the dream is over", he lists the things he doesn't believe in anymore and concludes saying: I just believe in me and that reality.

So with Venus in Virgo love is real, real is love (to quote John Lennon once again). There are many references to the realness of one's love. For instance, Gwen Stefani (Sun in Libra) sings: Our love is the real thing and This love is serious, You get me seriously out of my mind. Sting (Sun in Libra) adds: But if our love is pure, the only thing of which we're sure.

Perhaps for this reason (and also considering that Virgo is ruled by the planet of the mind, Mercury) love can be a mind-opening experience. Instead of being a blurry, hazy emotion (e.g. Venus in Pisces), it can be something crystal clear: John Lennon explains Love has opened my eyes, Love has blown right through, Wherever you are, you are here. That sounds very practical.

But before we go further, let's consider the fact that this isn't the type of Venus that needs to be in a relationship to breathe (e.g. Libra). Venus in Virgo is reserved, careful and will often prefer to be alone before they get into a relationship. This happens because they need to feel a sense of self-sufficiency, so instead of looking for their complementary parts in someone else, they find them within. This sense of independence is essential to them, even when they're in a relationship. Some examples: Can't see nobody, leave me alone (Lennon); Made up my mind not to love again, live my life a single man (Bryan Adams, Sun in Scorpio); Once I stood alone so proud, held myself above the crowd (Suzanne Vega).

Once their self-suffiency is secured, they'll carefully assess their potential partners (are they good enough?). If the answer is yes, they'll consider taking the innitiative but only if they're certain that they're appreciated back. Being very realistic, Venus in Virgo is very conscious of their flaws (and yours, for that matter) and this may lead them to be somewhat insecure. But when they're sure, they'll work on you with patience and discreetness.

You haven't noticed? Well, yes, perhaps they're not overtly flirting with you, but haven't you noticed how they listen to everything you say with interest? Weren't you delighted when they remembered a little detail about you that you mentioned a while ago? Weren't you happy when they considered to quit playing annoying computer games just to spend more time with you? Yeees, I thought so too. Bryan Adams sings: To really love a woman, to understand her, you gotta know her deep inside, hear her every thought, see every dream... Gwen Stefani adds: I think I know you inside out/ And we're together most days but I still love to have you around.

So make sure you notice and value these little things they do for you because that's all they need in return. If they feel valued by you, you'll have someone there who is willing to work on the relationship. Gwen Stefani portrays a devoted woman: I’d give you everything that I am, I’m handing over everything that I’ve got, 'Cause I wanna have a really true love. In another song for No Doubt, she wrote: So I pacify problems with kisses and cuddles, diligently doubtful through all kinds of trouble.

Venus in Virgo love style isn't the exuberant kind, it may be discreet and contained (Leonard Cohen, Sun in Virgo, mentions: For now I need your hidden love.) or come in the form of constant criticism and nagging (Gwen Stefani: I find myself trying to change you, If you were meant to be my lover I wouldn’t have to or I know I can't tame you but I just keep trying). Their criticism isn't meant to hurt your feelings but to help you become a better person (if there's one thing Virgo can't stand it's unfulfilled potential!)

Your wildness scares me, so does your freedom, You say you can’t stand the restrictions - sings Gwen Stefani. Bryan Adams adds: Had enough of your crazy ways, had enough of you leaving me for days.
It seems that Venus in Virgo feels uneasy next to wild characters, in fact they're usually not into them in the first place. They are more interested in the people that sometimes go unnoticed, there has to be some potential under there. But when they're with someone who seems to have a certain past, they can feel threatened by their partner's experiences. Gwen Stefani writes about being an ex-girlfriend for No Doubt: I kinda always knew I’d end up your ex-girlfriend, I hope I hold a special place with the rest of them, and you know it makes me sick to be on that list.

Being ruled by Mercury, the mental part of the relationship is very important for Venus in Virgo; it matters that the two partners are intellectually compatible. Leonard Cohen mentions: And you know that she will trust you, For you've touched her perfect body with your mind.

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A note:

Venus represents the more feminine side of the individual. Even though men have a feminine side too, often they're not very aware of it, for various reasons (mainly of a societal nature). What happens when we're not conscious of certain parts of us is that we tend to project them unto other people. In this case, men project their Venus sign qualities into women, so we also interpret a man's Venus sign as the kind of women they attract/feel attracted to.

In the lyrics of these male songwriters I've found various descriptions of women who are very natural and somehow connected to the Earth (the collective image of the Virgin). For instance Sting sings: The spirit moves on the water, she takes the shape of this heavenly daughter, She's rising up like a river in flood, The word got made into flesh and blood / Leonard Cohen also has a few descriptions of women and nature, such as: And she's there where the light and the darkness divide, And the steam's coming off her, She's huge and she's shy, And she steps on the moon when she paws at the sky.

Interestingly enough, Suzanne Vega also portrays this kind of woman, similar to the goddess: My name is Calypso, My garden overflows, Thick and wild and hidden is the sweetness there that grows, My hair it blows long as I sing into the wind, My name is Calypso and I have lived alone, I live on an island.


Random notes:

[1] I may be influenced by the connection between Virgo and Health but I noticed that every single one of these songwriters refer to illness, doctors and perscriptions in their songs. Just to cite a couple of examples: Gwen Stefani (Call the doctor cause I am sick in love); Leonard Cohen (I showed my heart to the doctor: he said I just have to quit. Then he wrote himself a prescription, And your name was mentioned in it! ).

[2] Venus in Virgo lyrics are rich in detail, which isn't a surprise really. I found a lot of them in Suzanne Vega's songs: The beams and bridges cut the light on the ground into little triangles and the rails run round, through the rust and the heat, the light and sweet coffee color of her skin.

Venus in Taurus and Music

Venus in the mirror by Diego Velasquez

Remember the impulsive, idealistic, I-will-die-for-you Venus in Aries? Well, erase that from your mind now. Venus in Taurus likes to take its time and base everything in very solid, realistic ground. One step at the time, the Bull (Taurus) doesn't move all of its paws at once, does it? We're talking about a Fixed sign here, which brings more stability to their emotions, perhaps more strength and a bigger ability to preserve them. Simultaneously they're less likely to take the first step.

British singer Lemar is very indecisive about taking the initiative despite having an Aries Sun. But you can understand the Venus in Taurus in his lyrics: What if I told her how I feel? What if this is just a crush on a girl that I don't know? What if she's just a fantasy? Maybe she's not the one for me. ...What if it's something I regret? Well, you get the picture. In another song he explains: I've been trying to get my feelings clear but still he fails to be completely decided: Should I dare to cross that border?. He asks: When I decide, will you feel the same? - well, you have taken plenty of time already, I'm afraid. I hope your girl isn't impatient!

What this shows is that, instead of following their impulses on a whim or being engulfed by their emotions, they are much more controlled about it. Tracy Chapman (Sun in Aries also) explains: This time I won't let my emotions rule my life, this time I'm gonna keep my heart locked safe inside. This sounds like a once-bitten-twice-shy kind of Aries.

What happens is that they understand the responsibility and compromise a relationship demands so they'll think twice before taking that risk. Martha Wainwright sings: I have realized now that everything is a compromise and the grass is no greener on the other side [Do you see the realism very unlike the idealism of Fire signs?] I'm not saying they take all of their relationships seriously - they can have casual encounters like anyone else - but if they're sure about someone they'll usually be loyal. (Lemar: My house is your home, You can come and go as long as I know that you're faithful / The only thing you really gotta bring is true love, I give you my word, I'm a man you can trust)

They won't be very keen on pursuing someone; as Tracy Chapman puts it: I'm too old to be chasing you around, wasting my precious energy.
Once they're in a relationship though, they'll try to hold on to what they've got with all their strength, even if the situation isn't as comfortable as it once was. Loyal and faithful yes, stubborn too (try getting a bull to change direction!). The lyrics are full of these examples: Martha Wainwright (Sun in Taurus as well as Venus) explains: But I think that I'm stuck on you / When you are gone I'll cry, but until then I'll crack a smile, I'll stay dry for as long as I can; Alanis Morissette (Sun in Gemini)shares her experience with love: At that particular time love had challenged me to stay, (...) I knew not run away again, (...) love encouraged me to wait, at that particular moment it helped me to be patient. Tracy Chapman in a very famous refrain sings: Give me one reason to stay here and I'll turn right back around. To end the round, Lemar sings: Trying to move on but I can't, No I can't imagine being someone else's man and also Girl I've tried and tried a million times to get you off my mind, It's not that easy.

With Venus in Taurus, practical and mundane issues are likely to have an important role in love relationships. They may also have a role in someone's choice of partner. Alanis Morissette, for instance, says: "These are 21 things that I want in a lover, not necessarily needs but qualities that I prefer, I figure I can describe it since I have a choice in the matter" She can also describe the inverse process: Let's name 30 good reasons why we shouldn't be together. I started by saying things like 'you smoke' 'you live in new jersey' (too far). Perhaps this is the rationality of Gemini added to the practicality of Taurus. She adds (with the adequate dose of irony probably): You're such a pretty thing when you're done up properly, I might want to marry you one day if you watch that weight and keep your firm body.

So physical things are very important for Taurus, they are basic - feeling comfort and indulging, be it food or nice things or sex. They like being surrounded by beauty and things that are valuable and made to last (just like their relationships) and home is a frequent mention in the lyrics. Martha Wainwright puts it this way: I will go home tonight and rest my head on the sight of you for as long as I can. Lemar adds: But nothing's ever like your bed at home, especially when you're away from the one you love. In another song he sings: "Put on your red dress and this diamond necklace, Your love leaves me senseless" Obviously, being surrounded by beauty also includes their loved one, but usually they admire what is more natural and simple. Lemar forgets about the diamonds and says: Don't need you to be something that you're not and also Classy but simple, I don't need to fuss.

Taurus can be one of the most possessive-prone positions of Venus because the loved one may be seen as a valued "object" that they treasure. Lemar has a song were he asks (or demands): Be Faithful. Tracy Chapman also admits: Thought I'd make something that could be mine forever, found out the hard way one can't possess another. Alanis Morissette's hit You Oughta Know is a tale of possessiveness and holding grudges. In another song she adds: I want to be big and let go of this grudge that's grown old/ All this time I've not known how to rest this bygone. Taurus has a hard time forgiving what others have done to them.

The grounded nature of Taurus indicates that the five senses gain a greater emphasis on getting to know the world. Let's take a excerpt of Wainwright's lyrics again (even though this isn't exactly a love lyric): Turn the key & warm up the vehicle, Window's foggy & I'm in my little bubble, Some are red, some are yellow, Black & blue & different colours, Mine is green, It glides underneath me, Yeah, it rides so sweetly, I love driving in my car, In my car I can see outside, I have wiped off the mirrors & they shine like glimmering glass. Notice how almost all the senses play up here and how the World and its material beauty can bring some happiness to a Taurean heart. Since we're talking about Venus here, the five senses are extremely important also in experiencing love.

Having said that, love is a very physical experience for Venus in Taurus, he/she likes to feel it with all the available senses - it makes it real. Alanis couldn't say it better: I've had enough distractions, I need some tenderness, Human Touch I gotta know it's real, I'm tired of people sellin' their sex appeal, Human Touch I need human love. Tracy Chapman complains in a song: We should have been holding each other, instead we talked. Lemar insists: Let your body do the talking.

All in all, Venus feels right at home in Taurus, as she is the ruler of this sign. In fact Venus is, in her purest essence, a bit lazy and fond of comfort and indulgence - you only have to look at most of her representations where she's usually laying down and being attended by servants.

Even though Venus in Taurus is realistic and not prone to fairy-tale stories as Venus in Fire signs, it doesn't mean that they're not romantic. They can be quite partial to a good old romantic story, with all the conventional symbols involved, including a white bridal dress and a bunch of red roses. Those symbols are valued because they're considered to express their emotions in a concrete level. Martha Wainwright sings about this: But in my silly mind I've gotten married to you. Alanis Morissette also has a bit of a romantic dream: I'm lookin' for someone who can make me feel a serious love like Juliet's is real.

Probably the best thing about Venus in Taurus is how loyal, caring, patient and devoted they are. They might be going through hell but they won't abandon their loved ones. Tracy Chapman: You come home you've had a hard day, every door you tried to open was closing in your face, I'm right here I'll be right here, I'll embrace you. Lemar: Just remember I will always be here for you, whether rain or sunny weather, we can take our time.

[I will try to be briefer next time, making the most of Virgos ability to synthesize!]

Venus in Sagittarius in Music

Promenade by Marc Chagall


And, of course, I'm like a wild horse

This may be the perfect introduction to Venus in Sagittarius, the last fire sign, sang by Sagittarian Sun and Venus Sinead O'Connor. It can't be denied that Sagittarius is the wanderer of the Zodiac and, when Venus is in this sign, love relationships are also supposed to take the person to places he/she have never been before, expand the horizons, instead of constricting them.

Naturally this indicates that the person isn't as willing to commit to relationships as other Venus signs do. Whatever their romantic status they need to feel that all their options are still open and that they can run through the back door if they have to. Usually the person will prefer to wander, see the World and explore their fantasies because they're as idealistic as the other Fire signs.

Keeping their freedom and independence is essential and some may panic at the prospect of conventional marriage: I don't wanna be no man's woman, I've other work I want to get done, I haven't travelled this far to become no man's woman says Sinead O'Connor. She adds bluntly: Wasn't born for no marrying, Wanna make my own living singing, Strong independent pagan woman singing. Ok, you can't be any clearer than that! Beth Gibbons (from Portishead, with Sun in Capricorn) also goes for the independent label: You can't deny how I feel and you can't decide for me.

Venus in Sagittarius will always be honest in love (unless there's a greater emphasis on less-honest signs in chart) and won't enjoy pulling the wool over your eyes. Beth Gibbons explains: I crave nothing else so much, Longing to reveal, Total honesty. They don't like to keep things from their partner neither because their aim is to share their ideals, their passionate visions of life with them. To the Sagittarian Venus the true meaning of partnership is sharing experiences with one another, being together, doing things and going through the same array of emotions. Beth Gibbons (in a solo song) asks: How can I forget your tender smile, Moments that I have shared with you?

The smile is present in most of the Venus in Sagittarius songwriters I analysed. It appears even in the gloomy songs of Portishead: Oh but when you smile, how I feel so good. Venus in Sagittarius is attracted to people who are in love with life, just like them (Beth Gibbons says God knows how I adore life); they enjoy smiling and laughing a lot too. If the other partner is too inhibited and not willing to share the joys of life with them, they'll probably be put off and search elsewhere.

As I've mentioned, these people are extremely idealistic (Beth Gibbons: I wish we could all believe that in this daylight world Is a world where love can be) and can often turn into "fairytale mode" as the other Fire signs. Sinead O'Connor has an album called Sean-Nos Nua with lyrics that remind us of our old Courtly Love: I spied a pretty fair maid she appeared like a queen, With her costly fine robes and her mantle so green.

In their dreamy expeditions they're trying to find Love, love with a capital L, something close to perfection, a fiery emotion, a complete spiritual and emotional union with someone else. Something like what Sinead O'Connor describes: I got a lovin' man but he's a spirit, he never does me harm, never treats me bad. He'd never takes away all the love he has and I'm forgiven oh a million times.
You might ask: why? Do they really think a relationship can fulfill all their ideals? Yes, they do. Paul Simon (Sun in Libra) explains: The though that life could be better is woven indelibly into our hearts and our brains like a train in the distance.

What can you do with someone that hopes something better will always be expecting them around the corner? Be patient and refrain from telling them to grow up (that's the biggest turn-off Venus in Sagittarius can get). You'll have to let them go and chase their arrows. Inevitably this idealistic path will lead to disappointment. Beth Gibbons aided by the more cynic Sun in Capricorn really knows how to express her downfalls from the dream: When I have tried to amuse myself, to celebrate the fun fair, The pleasures I seek are far too discrete for me. In her Portishead lyrics the disillusion comes up as well: From that cloud number 9, danger starts the sharp incline, And such sad regrets, oh as those starry skies as they swiftly fall. and also Dreams and belief have gone; time, life itself goes on.

After a few bumps in the road, Venus in Sagittarius will probably realize that the stability that they ran away from is also what they secretly desire (as it's often the case) and commitment may not be so bad after all. There is hope if you want to catch them. Paul Simon tells how: And I was in crazy motion till you calmed me down. It took a little time, but you calmed me down.

Venus in Sagittarius can be happy in a relationship if he/she's given enough space to grow and do some "travelling" in some occasions and if they can learn and experience different things in their partnership. From time to time they'll need to stretch those legs and they might be a little rude if you ask them where they're going. Sagittarius can be a little too raw sometimes but it's never their intention to hurt you; Sinead O'Connor apologizes often: And I never meant to hurt you, I swear I didn't mean those things I said, I never meant to do that to you; Just sounds more vicious than I actually mean, I really am soft, yes, I'm tender and sweet.

(Sinead O'Connor's music is quite the reflection of Venus in Sagittarius: she likes to mix different musical backgrounds, different languages, folk music, religious themes vs. paganism and love).

Venus in Leo and Music

Venus of Urbino by Titian

I'm continuing my Venus as the Muse investigation with the 2nd Fire sign, Leo.

What do Madonna, Fiona Apple, Tori Amos and Amy Winehouse have in common? They're all on my music shelf, they're all unconventional (to say the least) and they all have Venus in Leo.

Being a Fire sign, Venus in Leo shares some things with the Venus in Aries we've seen before; namely, the enthusiasm, a certain naivety of feelings because inside lives a child, the mythical view of Love and the disregard for material limitations. So again we find lyrics about how love is a fairy tale:

If the land of make believe is inside your heart, it will never leave/ There's a golden gate where the fairies all wait and dancing moons, for you (Madonna in Dear Jessie)

In the mist there she rides and castles are burning in my heart (Tori Amos in Girl)

And again we see that there is a deep idealization of what Love should be. First comes the ideal, then the rest, as Fiona Apple puts it - I'll idealize, then realize...or Amy Winehouse I drift off, I fantasize...

For Venus in Leo, Love must be Grand, Unique, Once in a Lifetime, Never done before, hence why Madonna sings: Romeo and Juliet, they never felt this way, I bet. - in Cherish, co-written with Patrick Leonard.
We scream in cathedrals, Why can't it be beautiful? Why does it gotta be a sacrifice? asks Tori Amos in Iiieee. I know, Tori, it should be all red and fantastic all the time.

Leo is often regarded as an extravagant, flamboyant, the-sun-shines-on-me sign. In fact, it is associated with the Sun and the Sun symbolizes the Ego. Leo is accused of being self-centered, of being obsessed with themselves and that may be true - but is that necessarily bad? The truth is they're very self-conscious and they need to gain a clear understanding of who they are so they can be as confident as we expect them to be.

This quest for their true identity is done by expressing themselves, by creating something, so there is an extension of them to be admired and recognized by others. They need some ego-boosting from their loved-ones (I just need to be reassured, sings Fiona Apple), even if they already appear confident enough, don't forget.

As Madonna puts it in her all-Leo hit "Express Yourself" - What you need is a big strong hand, To lift you to your higher ground, Make you feel like a queen on a throne - Venus in Leo should be the King/Queen of the relationship. They are naturally so giving and generous that they only expect to be thanked and appreciated in return. As Amy Winehouse puts it - All I need is for my man to live up to his role.

Venus in Leo doesn't like the conventional, the ordinary...(Madonna says - I want more than just romance). They like feathers, candles, silk, magnificent scenarios; in their minds they do wear a crown on the top of their head. And a King/Queen is always proud because deep down they're very sensitive to what others think of them. Fiona Apple explains - I have never been so insulted in all my life, I could swallow the seas to wash down all this pride. (in Sleep to Dream)

Or the Amy Winehouse confession - Although my pride is not easily disturbed... (in You Sent Me Flying).

KT Tunstall (also Venus in Leo, but Sun in Cancer) also says: I don't want to be second best, Don't want to stand in line, Don't want to fall behind.

Venus in Leo is very temperamental and dramatic in love and not what we would call easy-going. In fact, they're often regarded as troublemakers...Tori Amos starts the first song in her first solo album saying Every finger in the room is pointing at me, I wanna spit in their faces. Coincidentally, Fiona Apple's first song in her first album also says: This mind, this body and this voice cannot be stifled by your deviant ways, So don't forget what I told you, don't come around, I got my own hell to raise.

To be fair, they enjoy being "bad" and they don't try to disguise this aspect of their character. Even the titles of the songs are clear enough: "Criminal", "Sullen Girl" (Fiona Apple); "You Know I'm No Good (Amy Winehouse); "Bad Girl" (Madonna).

Fiona Apple is a master at expressing her devilish side:

- 'Cause I know I'm a mess he don't wanna clean up;

- You feed the beast within me

- I may be soft in your palm but I'll soon grow hungry for a fight, and I will not let you win

Amy Winehouse isn't ignorant about hers neither:

- My destructive side has grown a mile

- Animal aggression is my downfall

We must give them credit for their constancy, nevertheless. Being a fixed sign makes them more prone to being faithful and committed to one relationship, as long as their partners are loyal and appreciative in return. On the other hand, they can be massively stubborn as well. Ah, and competition...beware! They can be ferocious towards competitors and sometimes the competitor is the other partner - Venus in Leo likes to dominate but in a healthy, honest way (if there's such a thing).

I wonder if the four women I mentioned would be in this list if it wasn't for the strong Virgo influence in their charts. What I mean is that often the Fire signs provide a lot of energy and enthusiasm but this isn't always directed into a coherent target. There is an enormous potential, particularly in the creative sense, but not always the necessary persistence to carry it through to an end - that's the Earth signs area. So the Virgo energy in these woman may have made the difference, as unfulfilled potential is offensive to any Virgo. They feel a duty to make the most of their capacities. Madonna and Tori Amos have both a Leo Sun, but Madonna has Moon, Ascendant, Mercury and Pluto in Virgo and Tori has also Mercury and the Midheaven in Virgo, as well and Uranus and Pluto.

Fiona Apple (Sun + Moon in Virgo) and Amy Winehouse (Sun + Mercury in Virgo) may attribute their "bad girl" label to this impetuous Venus in Leo, as they largely differ from other Virgoean singers (for instance, sweet Katie Melua, with Venus in Libra).

Is your Venus in Leo?

Venus and Music

The Birth of Venus ("Naissance de Venus") by W. Bouguereau

Here's a post I've been working on for days. It involved a lot of research, interpretation and...music listening. It's been exciting and very interesting and I sincerely hope you enjoy it too.

When two things are so good separately, we have to believe that they can be magical together, so I'm attempting to combine Music with Astrology in a post about Venus.

Astrologically, Venus represents the way we love and what we love (be it an activity or personal qualities). It is connected to romance, beauty, aesthetics and arts in general. Even though music in particular is often associated with Neptune, this isn't a personal planet, it moves extremely slowly and lacks the richness and individuality that Venus contains. This way, I'm pretty sure Venus is the inspiring muse songwriters breathe from when writing love songs. (The way they express it nevertheless ruled by Mercury.)

I began to wonder whether the qualities of Venus in the charts of singers/songwriters were reflected in their lyrics. So I started by looking at the Natal Venus of some of my favourite songwriters. It was interesting and I continued...until I'd checked 76 charts and this almost became a scientific and certified investigation. ;)

My general conclusions:

- Venus in Earth and Fire signs came up more frequently (Air signs came last). Fire is the most dramatic and outgoing element so I understand their need for writing songs, as a grand gesture. Earth is less obvious, but perhaps it's their commitment to the material world, the world of the senses, that makes them want to produce something that can be heard.

- Venus in Fixed signs has a slight advantage over Cardinal and Mutable, possibly because their feelings are often more intense, enduring...

- Ten of the 76 "participants" had Venus in Aries. Other popular signs were: Taurus (8), Scorpio (8), Virgo (7), Capricorn (7), Aquarius (7), Pisces (7). I found only 2 songwriters with Venus in Cancer.

- Even though I limited my analysis to the signs were Venus was found, I couldn't help noticing Venus' aspects to the other planets in the chart and that's where the most interesting observations were.

(a) In the great majority of the charts Venus is extremely aspected, which highlights the planet's influence in the chart.

(b) Except for 3 or 4 charts, Venus was always aspected either by the social planets (Jupiter and Saturn) or by the extra-personal planets (Uranus, Neptune and Pluto) or BOTH. In my opinion, this reflects a person's connection to society and the collective; the person is able to understand the social trends, the collective feelings, hopes and dreams and probably channel that understanding into their songwriting. That's why they are popular songwriters and performers and not john and jane does - the public is able to see themselves in their songs, they enjoy it because they recognize their feelings in the music and lyrics, there is an obvious connection established. This can also add an explanation to the great number of Venus in Scorpio, Capricorn, Aquarius and Pisces found (all signs ruled by extra-personal planets).

(c) 80% (possibly more) of the analysed Venus are connected to Saturn in some way, proving what I knew but didn't really believe - Venus-Saturn connections have a great artistic potential (including Venus in Capricorn) because Saturn likes the give shape to things (a big, restricting shape ha) and next to Venus it makes people "get serious" about art and relationships, it makes them work on it, not simply enjoy it, and so artistic concepts gain a material, practical form. Additionally, Saturn rules time so it gives people rhythm and musical ability.

Possible limitations and biases:

- Most songwriters I checked were to my liking, but not all of them. To be more precise, I'd have to select half that I liked and half that I didn't, but liking is per se a very subjective concept.

- Lyric interpretation is possibly one of the most subjective activities in the World and my views will necessarily be biased (hopefully by my feelings and not by this study).

- I haven't obviously been able to read ALL the lyrics from ALL the 76 musicians...

- I'm limiting myself to the analysis of Venus signs, not houses (it's impossible to find out the exact birth-time of most of the artists) and not aspects, so it will always be a limited analysis.

I'll be back to present to you my conclusions for each sign.

In the meantime, if you don't already know, you can find where your Natal Venus is here.

Then you'll see if the song lyrics describe how you usually feel when you're in love (in my next posts).

Venus in Aries in Music

Let's see if all this craze makes any sense on paper.

I shall start with the Fire signs (because they're the best - nooo, kidding!). Check here to see if you have Venus in Aries or other fire sign.

Having Venus in Fire signs (Aries, Leo or Sagittarius) brings a lot of enthusiasm, energy, idealism to our approach to love. Being very concerned with ideals, aiming very high, sights on the future and in fantasy, love is certainly not boring or stationed, but the material things may be disregarded. Venus in Fire probably forgets birthdays, doesn't buy you chocolates or help you with the laundry...but you're certainly a part of the most exhilarating fantasy that's going on on his/her mind.

On to Venus in Aries - as I've mentioned, the most popular result in my songwriters research. Funnily enough none of the 10 singers with this position has an Aries Sun (this is rare since Venus never goes 45º further from the Sun, which is sign and a half). Anyway, most of them are Pisces.

Venus in Aries is impulsive and has a hard time controlling its enthusiasm, so frequently they'll fall in love at first sight. Bob Marley recognized in his song "I don't wanna wait in vain for your love" - From the very first time I rest my eyes on you, girl, My heart says follow through.

Janet Jackson knows it all too well and so she sings (I can't believe I had to browse through J.Jackson's lyrics neither!): I'm scared to fall in love, Afraid to love so fast, 'Cause every time I fall in love, it seems to never last.

Hmmm...now why does that happen?

Jewel replies: There is this hunger, this restless inside of me / There's this feeling I thought I had to get going, got too scary, got too big, got to get out of here.

The truth is that Aries love needs a certain amount of agitation, change, challenge to keep the flame alive. Jewel probably felt trapped at some point. (Stina Nordenstam would say that even a little trouble is a good thing - "I guess it's true what my sister said, when it's all fine it is just a bore")

They like novelty, new experiences, so they'll be extremely enthusiastic while they're hunting a new love interest. In fact, we may even say that the thrill of the hunt is what they like most about love.

What happens when we love to hunt and like a challenge? We search for the unobtainable person! He/She is the one that we love the most, we can't have him/her but OH, if we did...And so they pine for someone they can't have.

Stina Nordenstam has the best description: I know that I can't have you I know that you'll never be mine I know that and that's why I choose you 'Cause this is real life

Stevie Wonder laments on his lovely song "My Cherie Amour" - In a cafe or sometimes on a crowded street I've been near you, but you never noticed me; You're the only one my heart beats for, How I wish that you were mine.

Janet Jackson has a song called He Doesn't Even Know That I'm Alive. The title says it all.

Chris Martin from Coldplay wrote Shiver about an unobtainable girl (word has is that is was about Natalie Imbruglia): So I look in your direction and you pay me no attention ... He goes on to say: From the moment I wake to the moment I sleep, I'll be there by your side just you try and stop me.

Aries is persistent, I'll give you that. Because they're driven by those idealistic views of love, love that conquers all. Like Jewel, who sings: Fill your lives with love and bravery and you shall lead a life uncommon.

(bravery being all about Aries; it's in fact a term used intensively by Jewel).

Do they get disappointed?

Well I wanted to touch what I saw with my eyes Don't try to reach the moon if you don't wanna realise (Stina N. again)

Yes, often. That's what J.Jackson was saying in the beginning, it never lasts. Well, it's not that bad, it can last, if the person recognizes the human behind their perfect love fantasy, aknowldges its faults and individuality. Easier said than done!

Most of the time, the man with Venus in Aries believes himself as the original Knight in shining armour and his romantic interest is a Lady, who surely, needs to be protected and rescued. Sometimes they are blind to the fact that the Lady doesn't want to be rescued, they are blind to the actual woman in front of them, fantasising about the Ideal Female.

Even Bob Marley felt for that idea of Courtly Love on No, Woman no Cry. He tells her not to cry and tries to reassure her - My feet is my only carriage And so I've got to push on through. But while I'm gone, everything's gonna be all right!

Chris Martin - But I promise you this, I’ll always look out for you, that’s what I’ll do.

But it's not just the men! Listen to Shakira (or don't, it's up to you): Castillos, princesas, que ironia, al fin al cabo fantasiasmi principe azul, mi poesia, no estaba lejos de mi vidayo presentia que tu vendrias, que te amaria hasta el finalyo tenia un mundo de ilusiones, en el que te guarde un lugar [Castles, princesses, the irony, in the end fantasies, My blue prince, my poetry, wasn't far from my life; I felt you would come, that I would love you to the end, I had a world of illusions, where I kept a place for you].

She seems pretty aware of what is going on with her heart.

Enya also has Venus in Aries and her songs are extremely romantic and resembling the courtly love of past centuries.

Venus in Aries adds a lot of independence and willfullness to women, she won't be submissive and will stamp her foot when things don't go her way, even though she might dream about being rescued by the Knight.