An astrological birth chart is a graphic representation of the skies at the time of a person or an event's birth. It is an actual map of the heavens relating the positions of the planets in the sky to the horizon and meridian of the earth. This is why it is essential that the place of birth and the time and date are provided with as much accuracy as possible because even small variations can produce important changes in the chart.
In this map of heavens it is possible to see, first of all, the Zodiacal Wheel that includes the 12 Zodiac signs. These are, in fact, the band of star constellations that we see in the sky and that have been named after animals or mythical characters after the observations of our ancestors.
Secondly, we can see the Sun, Moon and the eight other known planets* that are transiting through the Zodiac and station at a given sign at a person's birth time.
The astrological charts are also divided into 12 houses that function as an additional interpreting tool. The first house is started by the definition of the Ascendant (a zodiacal point that is found rising East in the sky at the time of the person's birth). From that point on and also based on the position of the meridian, the twelve houses are defined, including the other three angles in the chart (the Descendant, the Immum Coeli, known as the IC and the Midheaven, or MC), all with a particular significance in the astrological interpretation.
The birth-chart also symbolizes the map of the psyche of the individual, representing someone's potential development when he/she is born.
You can see an example of a Birth Chart by clicking here.
* Although Pluto has officially been disregarded as a planet by astronomers, its importance in Astrology is still the same.
Sunday
My perspective over Astrology
My turning point while studying Astrology was realizing that it is not an “art” designed to predict the future or to explain what happens to us with a simple cause-effect equation. Astrology is an attempt to understand reality and represent it in a symbolic, pictorial language. The vehicles used to express this symbolism are the planets and the signs that serve as a representation of the basic energies present in life. From this starting point we gather immediately that there is no simplicity in astrological analysis, as it tries to embody all human live’s complexities.
If we watch closely, the energies that are present throughout our personal development are also present in all of Nature - the cycles of life affect plants, animals, humans in a similar way. The cycle of the sun creating the four seasons of the year is very visible looking at a tree, how the leaves grow and then fall. the life of a plant can be compared to the cycles of human life: growing, developing, the growth of flowers and then fruits, decay and death.
Used to relying on the observation of nature for their own survival, our ancestors were curious also about the changes in the sky above their heads. After patient observation they noticed that the cycles of the planets above coincided with their life cycles on earth.
Astrology doesn’t necessarily believe that the cycles of planets have an influence over what happens to us. What happens is that planets cycles and life cycle are synchronous. it seems that just like the plants and the animals, the planets also express the ebbs and flows of energy, they are also symbols of these levels of energy which are present all over the solar system. So what astrology does is try to understand the life cycles in someone’s life by equating them with planet cycles, using a language that is symbolic but easily understandable by everyone because everyone goes through the same processes, the same emotions, the same conflicts, the same breakthroughs. Because we ourselves are symbols of these underlying energies.
Rilke's expression "what is within surrounds us" is also a mention to this omnipresence of energy in all of what makes the Universe. It tells us that what happens to us is a reflection of something inside. It seems that our inner nature that includes our affections, conflicts, dreams, desires and emotions...seem to act as magnet, attracting the same kind of substance or energy from the outside world. This immediately alerts us to the fact that we must take responsibility for our lives, even though it's easier to blame others and the world for our misfortunes.
Astrology believes in a person's free will and not in predestined outcomes. This way, a lot of personal work can be done to improve our relationship with ourselves and the world around us. Even if some very basic traits cannot be changed, the more aware we are of what we're made of, of what our strengths and our weaknesses are, the more choices we have for the future. And that's where Astrology can come in, to help us make our own path.
If we watch closely, the energies that are present throughout our personal development are also present in all of Nature - the cycles of life affect plants, animals, humans in a similar way. The cycle of the sun creating the four seasons of the year is very visible looking at a tree, how the leaves grow and then fall. the life of a plant can be compared to the cycles of human life: growing, developing, the growth of flowers and then fruits, decay and death.
Used to relying on the observation of nature for their own survival, our ancestors were curious also about the changes in the sky above their heads. After patient observation they noticed that the cycles of the planets above coincided with their life cycles on earth.
Astrology doesn’t necessarily believe that the cycles of planets have an influence over what happens to us. What happens is that planets cycles and life cycle are synchronous. it seems that just like the plants and the animals, the planets also express the ebbs and flows of energy, they are also symbols of these levels of energy which are present all over the solar system. So what astrology does is try to understand the life cycles in someone’s life by equating them with planet cycles, using a language that is symbolic but easily understandable by everyone because everyone goes through the same processes, the same emotions, the same conflicts, the same breakthroughs. Because we ourselves are symbols of these underlying energies.
Rilke's expression "what is within surrounds us" is also a mention to this omnipresence of energy in all of what makes the Universe. It tells us that what happens to us is a reflection of something inside. It seems that our inner nature that includes our affections, conflicts, dreams, desires and emotions...seem to act as magnet, attracting the same kind of substance or energy from the outside world. This immediately alerts us to the fact that we must take responsibility for our lives, even though it's easier to blame others and the world for our misfortunes.
Astrology believes in a person's free will and not in predestined outcomes. This way, a lot of personal work can be done to improve our relationship with ourselves and the world around us. Even if some very basic traits cannot be changed, the more aware we are of what we're made of, of what our strengths and our weaknesses are, the more choices we have for the future. And that's where Astrology can come in, to help us make our own path.
Saturday
Venus in Scorpio (and music)
Sleeping Venus by GiorgioneTake a Water (feminine) sign and mix it with two (masculine) planet rulers with the calibre of Mars (god of War) and Pluto (god of Death). Then apply this mix into a feminine planet representing the way people love and their feminine side (Venus) and it all sounds a bit too heavy, don't you think?
And it is! With this position love is never a light and fun thing, but a deep, life-changing experience that usually leaves some scarrs (for better or worse). Take Bruce Springsteen (Sun in Libra) whose lyrics could write a seminar on Venus in Scorpio and his iconic song I'm on fire: Sometimes it's like someone took a knife baby, edgy and dull and cut a six-inch valley through the middle of my soul. Tormented is a good description.
Scorpio is the sign most connected to the dark side of things, being very aware of the most underground tendencies within each human being and recognizing that there's both Good and Evil in everyone. Take Jeff Buckley's (Sun in Scorpio) lyrics for instance: dark, mysterious, always mentioning death, life, embers, being reborn, angels and ghosts. Scorpios are experts at identifying your own secret side and exposing it in direct light, even if you are not aware of this side yourself. Scary, huh? But remember that were still talking about a Water sign, very susceptible to feelings, very emphatic and compassionate. Usually it's their intensity and their aptitude for intimacy that draws people to them.
It isn't easy to start a relationship with someone with Venus in Scorpio - they might appear like loners because they don't like to relate to a great number of people and are very discriminative of whom they relate to. Maybe they won't even give you the chance to introduce yourself because they have a general mistrust of people. Bruce Springsteen sings: Girl, ain't no kindness in the face of strangers, Ain't gonna find no miracles here. They are always allert and expecting the worst from others and life (the price to pay for knowing the dark side).
It's the same thing with love: Beth Orton (Sagittarius Sun) sings: Love is a one way train, comes on gentle as a hurricane, it's got p.a.i.n. written all the way through. Mike Skinner from The Streets (Sagittarius Sun as well) in one of his songs about love, comments: It weren't supposed to be easy, surely. These people are no romantics. Springsteen sings: True love can't be no fairytale and Ain't no church bells ringing, Ain't no flags unfurled, It's just me and you and the love we're bringing into the real world. Like other Water signs, they are oversensitive and take measures to protect themselves. Natalie Merchant (Sun in Scorpio) is metaphorical: Gotta build yourself a levee deep inside, Build yourself a levee girl when the waters run high.
In fact, when they're entering a relationship they're pessimistic to a fault. Listen to Natalie Merchant for example: So you're in love, it's so good for you, live it up girl cause it never lasted long, it's heaven for now but not for long, it's gonna hurt, it's gonna make you feel so bad. Maybe it's others who ruin it: Mike Skinner asks - Can you rely on anyone in this World? No you can't, is his answer. Or maybe it's themselves: Nelly Furtado (Sun in Sagittarius) warns:...I will only cause you pain (I promise that); Beth Orton agrees: Yeah, we only hurt the ones we love, while...we don't need a reason. Jeff Buckley shared the same problem: I've loved so many times and I've drowned them all. Or maybe it's something else: It ought to be easy (..) simple enough, man meets a woman and they fall in love, but the house is haunted and the ride gets rough, and you've gotto learn to live with what you can't rise above.
Scorpio's biggest fear is losing control of themselves and their lives. They won't find it funny if a loved one attempts to change them - they take it upon themselves to transform periodically, just like the snake shades its skin or the phoenix is reborn from the embers (two symbols of this sign). Having Mars as a co-ruler makes Scorpio extremely individualistic and building their own path in life (being the only god of their soul) is their biggest goal.
You won't find many of them getting drunk and making a fool of themselves or enjoying frivilous occupations. This isn't the kind of partner who will kneel on your feet with declarations of endless love. Venus in Scorpio is always dignified, always in control, always right. Natalie Merchant sings: I'm not gonna beg you for nothing, I'm not gonna beg you for love. One of Mike Skinner's songs is about a man smitten by a lady and it's called: don't mug yourself! Nelly Furtado confesses: I pretend to be cool with me, want to believe that I can do it on my own without my heart on my sleeve. Springsteen also sings: you're so afraid of being somebody's fool, not walking tough baby, not walking cool. They need a lot of daily introspection and are always seeking the explanation to everything: how they feel, how you feel (because they always know!), why you said this, why you didn't say that...You may feel like telling them to lighten up a little but they are simply too serious about love.
Despite their individualism, Venus in Scorpio is extremely willing to commit to a serious relationship (Alone buddy there ain't no peace of mind, that's why I'll keep searching till I find my special one) and when they do they are completely focused and dedicated to their partner. You can be sure that the relationship is their absolute top priority. Natalie Merchant remembers: for seven years you were loved, (...) you were all I could see. A tad obsessed, perhaps. Obviously, for someone who seeks a body and soul intimacy with someone, a lighthearted relationship just won't do (Honey, I want the heart, I want the soul, I want control right now)!
Because they give so much, they expect the same from their partner and have high standards when it comes to love. (Cheap romance, it's all just a crutch, You don't want nothin' that anybody can touch). When they enter a relationship they are entirely sure that it's what they want (when it comes to love there ain't no doubt) because their feelings about people are extreme: they either like them a lot or not at all. Bruce Springsteen explains: you got to give it all or nothing at all, if what you're thinking of is love, I want it all or nothing at all. Beth Orton thinks: I’d rather have no love than messing with the wrong stuff.
Which leads us to one of the greatest myths associated with Scorpio: Sex. Following common astrological knowledge, you might think you're dealing with a bunch of perverted maniacs, when it's quite the contrary. Yes, Scorpio is very connected to sex but as a transcendental body and soul experience, an expression of love. So, in general and if they're emotionally stable, this isn't a sign to take sex lightly, because, like love, they take it seriously.
Which leads us to one of the greatest myths associated with Scorpio: Sex. Following common astrological knowledge, you might think you're dealing with a bunch of perverted maniacs, when it's quite the contrary. Yes, Scorpio is very connected to sex but as a transcendental body and soul experience, an expression of love. So, in general and if they're emotionally stable, this isn't a sign to take sex lightly, because, like love, they take it seriously.
Venus in Scorpio's feelings are known to be very intense, probably why they sing things like: I wanna die with you, Wendy, on the streets tonight in an everlasting kiss, or It's never over, all my blood for the sweetness of her laughter. Beth Orton asks: I told you I loved you now what more can I do? Do you want me to lay down and die for you? Carla Bruni (Sun in Capricorn) explains the phenomenon in her song Le Excessive: c'est que l'existence, Sans un peu d'extrême, est inacceptable (meaning that existence, without some extreme, is unnacceptable). She goes on: Je suis excessive, quand tout explose, quand la vie s'exhibe, c'est une transe exquise, basically saying that the explosions and life make for an exquisite trance. Nelly Furtado shares the feeling: I don't want ambivalence no more. (these people are keen on double-negatives, it seems).
When you enter a relationship with someone with Venus in Scorpio you must be prepared:
a) to be stripped naked of all of your secrets; (I've got my sight now, I see everything you hid);
b) to not find out about your partner's secrets because they simply won't tell (She weaves secrets in her hair, The whispers are not hers to share, She's deep as a well);
c) to deal with your partner's need for control. (Baby, let me be your soul driver). This one in particular might be tricky: Scorpio is reported as the most jealous of all signs. (I wish I were blind when I see you with your man; see also Natalie Merchant's song: O Jealousy).
a) to be stripped naked of all of your secrets; (I've got my sight now, I see everything you hid);
b) to not find out about your partner's secrets because they simply won't tell (She weaves secrets in her hair, The whispers are not hers to share, She's deep as a well);
c) to deal with your partner's need for control. (Baby, let me be your soul driver). This one in particular might be tricky: Scorpio is reported as the most jealous of all signs. (I wish I were blind when I see you with your man; see also Natalie Merchant's song: O Jealousy).
Not only are they possessive but they're also constantly tormented by an underlying negativity when everything should be running smoothly, a haunting feeling (for instance, that their partner will cheat on them). This causes them a great deal of suffering and added need for control. Natalie Merchant sings: Once I could love, I could trust, I could not doubt, but that was the worst thing that I could do. She adds: never again, not in this life will I be taken twice.
This need for control leads to a lot of struggling and fights in their relationships (see The Streets' Get Out of my House song, for a row), as they're not prepared to give the other person the upper hand or admit they're wrong but at the same time they do not respect those who don't stand up to them. Scorpio has a great empathy for human suffering but none for weakness of character. This happens because they are extremely brave emotionally and are willing to make tremendous sacrifices for love, but not everyone has the same ability, which is what they fail to understand.
They also won't put up with betrayal. An eye for an eye...is another of the myths associated with the sign - vengeance. The truth is they won't attack unless they've been attacked themselves. They have a great concern for justice, not the impartial justice of Libra, no, but a personal one: Did you really think that you'd get away, escape my justice until your dying day? asks Natalie Merchant. She states: All the wrong you did, I might forget you, but never forgive.
Mike Skinner has a song about a lost love when need for revenge is visible: I know you want to make her see how much this pain hurts but you've got to walk away now. In the end dignity seems to have won the battle here.
Mike Skinner has a song about a lost love when need for revenge is visible: I know you want to make her see how much this pain hurts but you've got to walk away now. In the end dignity seems to have won the battle here.
If you're willing to deal with all of the above, you'll gain a partner capable of extreme (what else?) loyalty and support (Now our luck may have died and our love may be cold but with you forever I'll stay).
Venus in Cancer
Aphrodite Anadyomene in Pompeii
For the first time in my Venus articles I'm forced to find the lyrical evidence to back my text in only 2 songwriters (I ask: what gives?!). Furthermore they're both male and Gemini which could somehow cast a doubt about whether this feminine, emotional side of them will be perceptible in their lyrics. (as I've mentioned before men aren't always very conscious of their feminine {Venus} side and when that happens they tend to project this aspect of them onto women in their lives).
But let's get to business! Venus in Cancer has a very emotional, nurturing and devoted approach to love (Water signs, remember?). Emotion and feeling are frequently present in the lyrics: Lenny Kravitz sings: All I want you to do is feel with me. Many of his songs refer to a love revolution or "we got to let love rule". Noel Gallagher (main songwriter for Oasis) also mentions it: Let there be love and I feel love (...) now all my emotions fill the air I breathe (which is a very nice metaphor for someone with Gemini Sun, since this is the sign of breathing and lungs).
You can find lyrics that are very romantic (remember kissing in the moonlight? You are my life and my passion that never goes out of fashion, I want to know will you marry me? - Lenny Kravitz) but bear in mind that they have a great sense of self-protection and caution - Cancer is terrified of being hurt and rejected because they care about other people's opinions too much. The possibility of someone saying no to them equals complete humiliation and so, even though they're Cardinal signs, their approach to the things they want is not direct like, for instance, Aries. The crab is the main Cancer symbol and if you look at one walking towards something you'll notice they don't follow a direct line. Furthermore they rarely forget when they've been hurt by others. Lenny Kravitz sings: I've got to find a way to get past what I can't forgive.
This way, one of the most important factors in a relationship to Venus in Cancer is security. Cancer represents family and home and so these people will want to build something that can become their home, something secure and familiar where they can relax. Lenny Kravitz sings: I can't live my life alone without a home and also I'm just trying to get back home in any way, how I miss all the good times. In one of Oasis' earlier songs, Noel Gallagher wrote: What a life it would be if you would come to mine for tea, I'll pick you up at half past three and we'll have lasagne. Even if they're not very domestic people they'll want to grow roots because that's their biggest guarantee for a safe future. Gallagher explains: build something, build a better place and call it home, even if it means nothing you'll never ever feel that you're alone.
Being alone is, like for other Water signs, one of their biggest fears. Here's evidence provided by Noel Gallagher: we need each other, we believe in one another/ it's hard enough being alone, sitting here by the phone, waiting for my memories to come and play.
Family is one of their greatest treasures; perhaps why Lenny Kravitz's album Mamma Said is dedicated to his wife Lisa and most of the songs have a familar tone to it. He sings: we both are hurting and it's gonna take a little time to heal all the wounds and save our family. He also includes a song for his daughter called Flowers for Zoë. In another album he sings: In this garden our children will grow, Darling this is a must, We’ll be so happy, our little family so full of love and trust.
It's important for the partner of someone with this Venus to demonstrate their affection often, so that the person feels more confident and reassured, as their insecurity will sometimes be their biggest enemy. But if you're with someone with Venus in Cancer, you probably have a hard time knowing what mood they'll be in every half an hour. Lenny Kravitz wrote: If you open your eyes you’d see that I’m wearing a frown - pouting and being mute may be their way to get attention from you. Cancer is ruled by the Moon and this involves quick and fluid changes in their disposition. At the same time, their personality is quite conservative and will want to maintain the status quo at all costs (count on them to be extremely tenacious on their opinions).
It's important for the partner of someone with this Venus to demonstrate their affection often, so that the person feels more confident and reassured, as their insecurity will sometimes be their biggest enemy. But if you're with someone with Venus in Cancer, you probably have a hard time knowing what mood they'll be in every half an hour. Lenny Kravitz wrote: If you open your eyes you’d see that I’m wearing a frown - pouting and being mute may be their way to get attention from you. Cancer is ruled by the Moon and this involves quick and fluid changes in their disposition. At the same time, their personality is quite conservative and will want to maintain the status quo at all costs (count on them to be extremely tenacious on their opinions).
If you imagine a crab grabbing something with their claws, you'll understand how they simply won't let go. Musical evidence is abundant. Lenny Kravitz has two songs that say it all: I'm gonna stand by my woman now and It ain't over 'til it's over. In his lyrics he insists: This love will never leave you, this love will never let you go. Never letting go also means being there to take care of you (But I would never lie, let things go by, leave you in road to die, I would never ever say goodbye) until the end of time: Darling when we're old, we'll close the gates and lock the door, our love will never fade away. Oasis have two songs that reflect this as well: stand by me, nobody knows the way it's gonna be and don't go away, say that you'll stay forever and a day. You can guess that usually Venus in Cancer isn't the one to end relationships - even if they are comfortable with emotionality, they prefer to avoid confrontations.
Cancer also represents the Mother, so someone with Venus in Cancer will either look for someone to mother them or inversely adopt a motherly-role in their love relationships (taking care of someone is the easiest way for Cancer to show affection). Lyrics prove it: Good morning, Can I walk you to the train, Would you like to get a bagel on the way? (Kravitz) and you make sure I eat today (Gallagher). As other water signs, they need to feel needed. But it's very important that they direct their attention into other things besides their loved ones, or there might be the danger that they'll try to rebel against constant attention. So a creativity outlet is very important for Venus in Cancer, they need a project to express themselves.
Cancer is extremely imaginative (Gallagher: lived in a bubble ... not concerned about what life was sending ... fantasy was real) but they're also very concerned about the responsabilities and the real world so you can expect a partner that is fully commited but that can also dream (Whenever you call me, I'll be waiting, Whenever you need me, I'll be there {Kravitz}).
The most worrying tendency to be aware with Venus in Cancer is their tendency to manipulate others and this is also a Water characteristic. Being very sensitive to other people's feelings they easily pick up on other people's moods and work with them until they get what they want (I want you to know I'm emphatic about your love that's enigmatic). And if this isn't dubious enough, they might use this ability to prevent other people from leaving them or going against their wishes - they do that by playing the martyr, as we've seen on Water signs.
Venus in Cancer isn't prone to rationalisations and will never explain or analyse themselves (they simple can't, hence the famous Oasis lyric
there are many things that i would like to say to you but I don't know how or I can't find the words to say about the things caught in my mind). They are extremely secretive. In order to deal with this side of them, their partners must learn to read the non-verbal signs. When given the necessary emotional reassurance and feedback, Venus in Cancer can provide a very patient and loyal partner, an expert in understanding and taking care of others.
Monday
Venus in Water signs
This is a little post to introduce you to the mood of Water signs. And they are very moody! It's the currents you see, water currents they come and they go, nature is in constant mutation (cycles) and these are the three signs that are more in-tune with these instinctual currents.
If you look at the symbols of these signs you'll see the most primitive beings in the Zodiac - the crab, the scorpion and the fish - all cold-blooded creatures, very far from the rational human. So unlike the rational Air signs, that thrive on thoughts and ideas, Water signs are driven by feelings and instincts.
They have strong feelings about things which they can't really explain. They're the kind that may drive you insane saying they don't like something and when you ask why, they say: I don't know, I just don't like it. They may be less rational than other types and usually that isn't seen as a good thing. But why not?
First of all, they're not trying to impose their feelings on you, they realize feelings are entirely subjective but the ones they have are their reality. Secondly, it also means that they are extremely sensitive and imaginative and by being connected with more in-depth realities they have the ability to emphasize with other people's feelings much more easily.
Nevertheless, just like Air types have trouble with emotion, Water types have trouble with ideas and theories. They consider them useless because they're generalistic and unpersonal, they prefer to consider things that apply to them and to people around them. For this reason you might find them apparently careless when it comes to theories, politics, institutions...and they can be extremely unfair, introducing double-standards at every occasion and driving Air types mad. The fact is that they can't detach from their reality (feelings) and assume a broader perspective.
What really matters to them is the people around them, particularly the ones they care about. When it comes to these relationships they are extremely devoted and selfless. There are no signs that need human contact as much as Water signs, they live for their relationships, for their feelings for other people and may sometimes even live through their relationships.
Venus in Water signs needs to feel secure in their relationships and when they find that security they aren't likely to get bored. Why? Because they have a tremendous imagination and exploring the unknown is not their cup of tea.
In a relationship they'll shower you with attention which can be frightnening for more independent types but the truth is, if you want things to work with Water signs, you must let them believe that they are needed, otherwise all their devotion will seem unwanted and the person will sulk. Here comes the danger of possessiveness because the Water person may feel that since they're not needed, the relationship and that security might be at risk and this leads them to cling to their loved ones, sometimes resorting to emotional blackmail and playing the victim. They don't do it consciously but it's easy to see through their martyr-role.
If you're willing to show them your less independent side, you can expect a partner that is extremely intuitive and caring, someone who probably won't talk much about the relationship but will definitely convey their feelings towards you in very emotional ways. Someone who seems to know just want you need and just how you're feeling. So make the most of it and be pampered, but take some time to teach the Water person how to receive too.
*painting: Venus and Cupid by Alessandro Allori
Tuesday
Venus in Aquarius in music
Alexandre Cabanel, The Birth of VenusI 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)?
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).
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 - BotticelliA little physical attraction
Romantic, old-fashioned charm
And a lot of love and tenderness
Is gonna get you into her arms
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.
Thursday
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.
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.
Wednesday
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.
Thursday
Venus in Capricorn (in Music)
Venus with a Mirror by Tiziano (Titian)
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).
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.
Saturday
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.
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.
Monday
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!]
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