Jane Goodall (1934 – 2025)

“…animals are “far more aware and intelligent than we ever imagined and, despite having been bred as domestic slaves, they are individual beings in their own right. As such, they deserve our respect. And our help. Who will plead for them if we are silent?” 

~ Jane Goodall (referring to farm animals)

The celebrated primatologist and anthropologist Jane Goodall died on Wednesday at the ripe old age of 91.  She seems to have come into this lifetime intent with purpose, and achieved an amazing set of achievements throughout her long life, being on a lecture tour at the very end of her life.

Birth Chart

Such a remarkable lady would be likely to have a remarkable birth chart, and she has.  The pioneering, courage, and adventurousness just stack up in her chart.

Her Sun was in Aries (courage, The Pioneer and Warrior Archetypes), bold and fearless.  In addition, Aries has an unmistakeable primal quality, which obviously she possessed in order to do the empathetic work with the chimpanzees.

The Sun was opposite Jupiter in her chart – adventurousness, and sextile the North Node (she was master of her own destiny).  Her Moon was in Sagittarius, again adventurousness.  The Moon was conjunct her Ascendant in Sagittarius, on the 12^th House side: depicting living out in the wilds.

Venus was in Aquarius when she was born and conjunct Saturn, indicating a lone existence (human-wise), although she was married twice, her first marriage producing a son.  Mars was in Aries, again The Warrior – she knew how to look after herself.  Mars was opposite Jupiter – trusting in adventure, and exactly sextile the North Node, again accentuating the Pioneer and Warrior.

Jupiter was trine Saturn in her chart, balanced judgement which was much needed in the life she led.  She had Uranus square Pluto – and so was an Agent for Change.

Life and Career

Jane was born in Hampstead; her father was a businessman, and her mother was a novelist.  She attended school in Poole, Dorset.  She was given a stuffed toy chimpanzee when she was a child by her father: it must have been her animal totem!

On her 23^rd birthday in 1957, she travelled to Kenya, to stay at the farm of a friend.  The planets really came out for her that day, as you would expect from such a life-changing event: Pluto was opposite her natal Venus, a big change in her personal circumstances; Uranus was trine her natal Moon (ditto); Chiron was sextile her ruling planet Mars, and crucially for her destiny, transiting her natal North Node; Saturn was trine her natal Sun; and the North Node (again) trine her natal Sun.

She worked as a secretary and made a telephone call to the famous archaeologist and palaeontologist Louis Leakey.  I am always fascinated by how the right people appear at the right time in the lives of others, and it’s interesting to note that Jane and Louis’ Suns were exactly trine, one of the best indicators of being able to work together.  Louis at that time was looking for a chimpanzee researcher, and employed her ostensibly as a secretary.  He sent her first to Tanzania, and then to London to study primates.  On 14^th July 1960 he sent her to Gombe Stream National Park to study the primates there, where her true work of observation was to begin.  At the time it was deemed necessary to have her mother with her, as this work was not considered the province of a female.  In this, Jane was a pioneer.  The Moon on her Sagittarian Ascendant both illustrates the role of her mother in encouraging her, and the far flung nature of her work.

After two years, Leakey sent Goodall to Newnham College, Cambridge University, where she read natural sciences.  She then  enrolled at Darwin College for a Doctor of Philosophy degree in Ethology.  Ethology deals in the welfare of animals and their survival.  In her thesis, she drew upon her years observing chimpanzees in the wild.

She discovered many ways in which chimpanzees were like humans, from their emotional range, to their capacity for toolmaking and warriorship, as well as community life.  She established that they were meat eaters, contrary to the established thinking that they were vegetarian.  She turned the prevailing male-dominated style of research on its head, giving the chimpanzees names instead of numbers, making her prey to charges of anthropomorphism.  This did, of course, increase the bond she developed with the chimpanzees.

By 1977, she was turning her efforts towards the habitat of the animals, and later to the problem of climate change.  She wrote a book in 1999 entitled “Reason for Hope” in which she recounted a spiritual experience she had in Notre Dame (“And so I must believe in a guiding power in the universe”).

“That afternoon, it had been as though an unseen hand had drawn back a curtain and, for the briefest moment, I had seen through such a window. In a flash of “outsight” I had known timelessness and quiet ecstasy, sensed a truth of which mainstream science is merely a small fraction. And I knew that the revelation would be with me for the rest of my life, imperfectly remembered yet always within. A source of strength on which I could draw when life seemed harsh or cruel or desperate.”

In 2015, she endorsed the parliamentary candidacy of Carolyn Lucas, in the Green Party.  In 2022 she was on the board of the Nonhuman Rights Project, a role which she continued until her death.  She was a staunch advocate for vegetarianism:

“I stopped eating meat some 50 years ago when I looked at the pork chop on my plate and thought: this represents fear, pain, death”.

Death

Jane had been conducting a speaking tour in America, but died of natural causes this week.  All of these transits include Chiron, the Inner Healer: Pluto trine natal Chiron, Neptune sextile natal Chiron, Uranus on her Chiron in her 6^th House, Chiron on her Uranus in 5^th House, and Chiron sextile her natal Saturn in 3^rd House – some resolution was going on in her life.  In addition, Jupiter was on her natal Pluto in 8^th House – clearly a good death, a good life and a good name.

“My next great adventure, aged 90, is going to be dying. There’s either nothing or something. If there’s nothing there’s nothing, that’s it. If there’s something I can’t think of a greater adventure than finding out what it is. I happen to think there is something because of the experiences I’ve had, because of experiences other people have had. Very powerful ones.”

~ Jane Goodall

“She gave up doing what she loved – spending time with her beloved chimpanzees – to tirelessly travel the world and share her passion with everyone she met.”

~ Professor Cat Hobaiter

Aspects

We start tomorrow (Monday 6^th October) with an ingress: that of Mercury going into Scorpio.  This implies that collectively, we will look into matters more deeply and forensically.  In your own personal life, you will have more courage to look at what really matters, and to worry less about how things appear to others.

In the early hours of Tuesday (7^th) there will be a Full Moon at 14 degrees Aries.  You may feel Some emotional tension building on Monday evening, with possible insomnia in the early hours of Tuesday, especially if you are susceptible to the Moon’s phases.  The Full Moon opposes the Sun in Libra.  This is about balancing your own needs and that of the other, and bringing the two into balance.

Late lunchtime on the same day, there will be another source of tension, from a square between Pluto and Mercury.  Profound journeys may be undertaken, too.  There may be a setback or a reversal, so make sure your actions are solid if you have a conflict to resolve in your own life.  Perhaps there is a twist in the plot.  You may need extra ‘me time’ in order to separate yourself from worried pronouncements about the state of the world.  If you do engage in chatter, choose a worthwhile subject.

In contrast, we move to the sublime on Wednesday (8^th) with a gorgeous sextile between Venus and Jupiter.  It’s one of the brightest aspects of the year.  This bodes well for any celebrations or parties.  It’s conducive to socializing, and romancing.  This sextile combines luck and love.  Enjoy the highlight of the week!

Saturday (11^th) at 11:11 (numerologically sacred to many), Saturn opposes Venus.  This could be emotionally deflating (e.g. a prominent, well-loved public figure could pass after a long and worthwhile life). It is time to value those around you, and to renew bonds of love and loyalty.  If you are into numerology, the number 11 could sustain you.

The week in bullet points:

• Tomorrow – look more deeply
• Tuesday – emotional high tide; look every more deeply
• Wednesday – time to party
• Saturday – a sober note…but lucky 11 for some

Michel Odent (1930 – 2025)

“One could almost say that the root of all anguish is an unconscious memory of birth and its terrors”

~ Frederick Leboyer

We heard this week that Michel Odent died this week, at the age of  95.  Very much of niche interest (but very much of interest to me), Michel Odent was one of the leading lights of the natural birthing movement at the time I was having my children (late 70s, early 80s).  I wrote a blog on 25^th June 2017 when Frederick Leboyer died, about these “Childbirth Educators” and innovators, which included Arthur Janov, Thomas Verny, Ina May Gaskin, Leonard Orr and Sheila Kitzinger.  If the subject interests you, you may want to revisit it.

Interestingly, at the time, I did not even have a birth date for Michel Odent.  So I wrote:

“Michel Odent (born  1930)

Obstetrician Michel Odent is seen as a disciple of Leboyer, and we do not have a birth date for him, only a year.  1930 was the year Pluto was discovered, and it was then found in the sign of Cancer.  This reminds us that one of main significances of Pluto in Cancer is the reform and deeper understanding of birth practices.  He was born one year after Sheila Kitzinger.  Michel Odent was labelled in the Lancet as “one of the last real general surgeons”.

He was interested in the birth environment, and has been associated with the rise in popularity of the water birth, although he did not see it as a requisite, but as an alleviating factor for pain to some extent.  Nowadays, water births are readily available to women.  He was enthusiastic about breastfeeding immediately after birth.

His book “Birth Reborn” was published in 1984, ten years after Leboyer’s main work.”

Birth Chart

Michel Odent’s birthday was 7^th July, Sun in Cancer being a fitting sign for an obstetrician.  That date is also aligned with the Fixed Star Sirius.  The Sun exactly square Uranus in his chart marks him out as an Innovator, and a breaker of moulds.  He could therefore be controversial, such as in his statement that anxious fathers could stay out of the birthing room.  His Sun conjunct Pluto links him profoundly with the life cycle of birth, death and rebirth.  And the Sun sextile Chiron suggests the Healer Archetype.  He had Mercury conjunct Jupiter, which is a positive mental energy.  His Jupiter was sextile his Neptune, which indicates a balanced relationship between religion and spirituality.  And Uranus square Pluto marks him out as a fierce advocate for Change.

Life and Career

Odent was born in Bresles, France, and studied at the Sorbonne, training as a surgeon.  After this, he did two years of military service in Algieria.  He practised at Pithiviers Hospital for 23 years.  He was particularly interested in the environment of the birth process.  Consequently, he instituted birthing rooms, birthing pools and singing sessions.

Daniela Drandic (International Confederation of Midwives):

“In the 1970s birth was institutionalized and medicalized.  Michel Odent reminded us that physiological processes during pregnancy and birth should be respected.”

He retired in 1985, moved to London, and dedicated himself to research, developing ideas around home births.  He researched the correlations between the natal “primal period” and the subsequent health conditions of mothers and babies.

He was a prolific writer, beginning with the books “Birth Reborn” (1984) and “Primal Health” (1986).

He was concerned about lower back pain in women giving birth, which was one of the reasons for the concentration on water births.  I am not sure what he would have made of Donald Trump’s urging pregnant women to put up with pain and forgo paracetamol.  Of related interest, he posited that some autism could be linked with some artificial inductions and caesarians (an idea met with scepticism), so that’s another possible conversation he could have had with Donald.

But on a serious note, I was a tremendous fan of his work, and all of those mentioned at the top of the page, back in the day…

Death

At his death, Jupiter was transiting his natal Sun in Cancer, often a sign of release for the elderly.  In addition, and very much worthy of note, the North Node was exactly trine his natal Pluto in Cancer: he had completed the most profound missions of his life.

“One could almost say that the root of all anguish is an unconscious memory of birth and its terrors”

~ Frederick Leboyer

“Unconscious birth memories bar the way as a closed portal on the path back to bliss”

~ Fredric Lehrman

Aspects

It’s a long time since we had a One-Aspect-Week!  But this one, coming on Wednesday, the First day of October, is Mercury square Jupiter.

You can work on this one of two ways: use it as a general guide to the week, or forget about it the other days, and just focus on it on Wednesday.  The actual time of the square is 20.59 Hours.  You may even see it as a starting theme for the month of October.

This aspect will stimulate us mentally, almost to the point of too much information!  There may be travel involved or planned.  It would be a good day to be out in nature, taking a good stroll, and picking up information.  Mercury square Jupiter is a refreshing aspect, if not a little over-stretching to manage, so you may find yourself travelling a little bit further than your comfort zone.

The outcome of this mindstretching square may be within your control, through your response.  Certainly you can exercise choice …You may have far to travel, or a lot to learn, but may enjoy the ride nevertheless.

Interestingly, the week beginning 10^th March 2013 also had one Aspect, and it was the same aspect, Mercury square Jupiter.  I decided to link it to the Explorer Archetype:

“Explorer Archetype

The Explorer Archetype relates to our aspect this week of Mercury square Jupiter (It’s a close relative but distinct from the Pioneer Archetype, which combines Mars and Jupiter).  Jupiter square Mercury relates to physical and mental travel, but being square it can lead to overstretching.  The square can propel into other dimensions, for both Mercury square Jupiter, and its related Mars square Jupiter, but usually only if we are travelling spiritually.  For instance, if you are travelling in regression say, to a lifetime on another star system you might suddenly turn left in a corner of the Universe and find yourself on a distant home star destination.

Ranulph Fiennes, who just recently gave up an expedition to the Antarctic, has the natally robust sextile of Mars and Jupiter (the Pioneer Archetype) but was defeated by transiting Jupiter squaring his natal Mercury, frostbite putting an end to this ambition, overstretching himself being part of the problem.

Marco Polo, the Explorer, combined the two Archetypes successfully: Jupiter trine Mars with Mercury at the midpoint sextile both planets.  Christopher Columbus, another prominent Explorer, also had Jupiter-Mercury in a favourable sextile.

Adventurous minds and visionaries also come under Mercury square Jupiter, and some can be very successful in this field of human endeavour. Mercury-Jupiter of itself does not predispose to higher consciousness necessarily, but does lead to the sharing and exchanging of information, and does favour communication and publicity.

For channelling and interdimensional work there does need to be a significant presence of Neptune or Uranus with Mercury.  However, Mercury and Jupiter in combination do cover a lot of global ground.”

I then wrote a little about three pioneers who had this square natally, Alice Bailey, David Spangler, and Derren Brown, again if you wish to revisit this subject.

So, have a good Mercury square Jupiter week, folks!

The week in bullet point:

• Wednesday – stretching mind and body

Strictly Come Dancing 2025

[Two blogs for the price of one this week…scroll down to read about Virgo Archetypes]

Dani Dyer

She follows her famous dad not only in name, but also in Sun sign: Leo.  They seem close, but she does have an independent streak, her own path, with an unaspected Sun.  She has an enquiring mind (Mercury closely trine Jupiter), and great enthusiasm (Mars exactly opposite Jupiter).  Her dance skilled may be slowed by Jupiter closely square Saturn (the left foot not always knowing what the right one is doing).  But she has healing potential (North Node exactly conjunct Chiron).

She won the fourth series of ITV’s Love Island (2018) with Jack Fincham, but split up with him soon afterwards.  And although still young (at 29 years) she has three children, and was married this summer.

Her transits for the opening show this weekend are:-

Pluto on her Uranus (life changing)

Neptune square her Venus (challenging dancing)

Neptune trine her Pluto (psycho-spiritual growth)

Uranus trine her natal Uranus (wonderful surprises keeping her on her toes)

Chiron square her natal Neptune (physical difficulty in dancing)

Some challenging starting points here.

Her transits for the final show:-

Pluto still on her Uranus

Neptune still trine her Pluto

The picture does not look promising for a win, but for psychological growth, a tick!

Dani is paired with Nikita Kuzmin, and they make an attractive pair.  I wrote in 2021: “He has an unaspected Sun in Capricorn, which may mean he is a free spirit.  His Moon is in musical Libra, and he has a dynamic conjunction of Mars, Venus and Uranus in Aquarius.”

His transits for the opening show this weekend are:-

Neptune square his natal Sun in Capricorn (confusion)

Saturn sextile his natal Neptune (effort)

Mars square to his Neptune (some awkwardness)

Nodal Axis square his Mercury (he may have too much on his mind)

As easy on the eye as this pair is, this is a time of confusion for Nikita.  As a consummate professional he won’t show it.  But in his personal life, and behind the scenes, he may be struggling with the transition to this season.

His transits for the final show:-

Neptune sextile his own Neptune (spiritually in tune with himself)

Uranus trine his natal Neptune (in harmony with complexity)

He will be feeling a lot more settled at the end of the contest, but maybe as a group professional dancer in a comfort zone, rather than a winner.  I imagine they will do reasonably well in the long run, but may not last till the end.

Stefan Dennis

Anyone who has ever watched “Neighbours” in any decade will know of Australian Stefan Dennis, aka Paul Robinson of Lassiter’s. He has a specialist chart, with the Sun and four other planets in Scorpio (specializing on playing the same bad guy for decades!).   His Sun is in the middle of a quadruple conjunction between Venus/Neptune/Sun/Jupiter.   Venus closely conjunct Neptune catches the eye, as it is exactly the sort of conjunction one would hope to see in a would-be dancer!  He has strong energy (Mars square Pluto) which can be volatile, but also likes to take risks (Jupiter square Uranus, the Chancer Archetype).

Stefan does have musicality (Venus/Neptune), having sung in his youth in a vocal group with his brother.  He also toyed with being a chef (Venus also rules culinary expertise).  He joined the cast of Neighbours when he was 26.  He appeared in the programme on and off, right to the last episode.  He claims people have a struggle telling the difference between his character on screen, and his real life.  Like Dani Dyer, he also has three children.

His transits for the opening show this weekend are:-

Saturn sextile his natal Mars (good physical control)

Jupiter square his Nodal Axis (a karmic stretch)

Jupiter trine his Mercury (in good mental shape)

Looking promising!

His transits for the final show:-

Neptune sextile his natal Mars (inspired movement)

Jupiter still trine his Mercury

Mars sextile his natal Neptune (an embodiment of his spirituality)

Mars trine his natal Pluto (a powerhouse of energy)

We may have our winner already!  Now here’s the thing: in the launch show last night he declared that he has two left feet, and wants to impress his dancer wife.  Maybe the astrological picture is just showing he has a good time…

Stefan is paired with Dianne Buswell, another Australian.  Dianne of course won the contest last year, with Chris McCausland (who had a Jupiter Return at the final).  She is now expecting a baby boy in 2026 with Joe Sugg who she met on the 16^th series of Strictly, so I hope she takes care of herself…I have written about her: “She is a… supportive Taurean, with Chiron, Mars and the Moon in Cancer (the sign of musical rhythm).”

Her transits for the opening show this weekend are:-

Uranus square her Nodal Axis (the element of the unexpected)

There’s a lot of excitement between them at the moment, particularly with the Aussie connection, but astrologically it’s a quiet time.  Maybe she is focussing on the baby.

Her transits for the final show:-

Saturn Retrograde will be almost sextile her Venus (a sense of loyalty)

Mars will oppose her Mars/Chiron (she will need to look after herself)

Mars will also be transiting her natal Uranus (again, she will need to look after herself)

The North Node will be sextile her Neptune (she will have a sense of her destiny, not necessarily on the ballroom experience)

My feeling is she may be concerned about the pregnancy, and trying not to overdo the punishing schedule, sometimes on autopilot.  Again though she is a consummate professional, and a zesty character, she may be resting on her laurels somewhat.  As Stefan only wants to be able to dance with his wife, he’ll achieve that, with her.  It’s a confusing total picture, as his transits are impressive.  Maybe she may retire during the season, and he will acquire a different partner.  Maybe he is lying about having two left feet…

Balvinder Sopal

Following on the soap opera trend, Balvinder Sopal plays strong woman Suki Panesar in Eastenders.  She’ll probably be relieved to get away from the current shenanigans on the street!

Bhavinder also has quite a specialist chart, with a satellitium of four planets (including the Sun) in Sagittarius.  The other three accompanying planets are Mercury, Neptune and Mars.  Mercury conjunct Neptune indicates she will be able to listen to dance instruction effectively, and channel the essence of the music.  Despite the rather dour character she plays in the soap, she actually has an upbeat personality (Sun/Mercury trine Jupiter), though that is balanced out by Sun/Mercury closely square Saturn (so she can play the dour side…).  [She did, last night, declare herself as an optimist].  Mars conjunct Neptune means that she can synchronize her physicality with her soul nature, which could result in some inspired dancing from time to time.  This conjunction of Mars and Neptune can have a victim side, which is sometimes played out in Suki (despite her strong woman persona), and this conjunction squares her Nodal Axis, so can affect her karma at times, both in an inspired and in a sensitive way.  This could make her a complex character, but I may be projecting too much of Suki in my analysis!

Some life-changing transits occurred when she first aired her role on Eastenders in 2020:

Pluto trined her natal North Node in Virgo; Jupiter trined her natal Saturn in Virgo; Mars was transiting her natal Mercury; and the North Node sextiled her natal North Node.

Her transits for the opening show this weekend are:-

Jupiter is closely sextile her North Node in Virgo (karmic reward)

The Nodal Axis squares her natal Neptune in Sagittarius (a little uncertain on her feet)

Though her natal chart is suited to dance, it is possible she will be just finding her feet at this stage.  But she seems destined to make a good go of it.

Her transits for the final show:-

Chiron closely trine her natal Mars in Sagittarius (healing movement)

Jupiter will still be closely sextile her North Node in Virgo (a karmic uplift)

I think she will get stronger as the competition progresses, but there may be a dip when Saturn squares her Mars and opposes her Nodal Axis in the middle of the contest (when she may find herself in the dance off).  If she gets through that period, she could last until the semi-final or the final itself.  She’ll do her best to push through.

She is paired with Julian Caillon, an Australian professional, and newbie to Strictly.

So…looking at his chart for the first time: he’s a fastidious Virgo (read all about Virgo Archetypes, in the blog below), with Sun/Mercury/and Chiron in that sign.  He may be very health conscious, therefore.  He’s also a Warrior, with Mars exactly conjunct his North Node in Libra, the sign of music.

His transits for the opening show this weekend are:-

Neptune opposite his natal Chiron in Virgo (a little uncomfortable, though styling it out)

Chiron square his natal Uranus (a little uncomfortable!)

Saturn trine his natal Pluto (that’s more like it; a show of strength)

Jupiter trine his natal Saturn (good judgement)

Mars on his natal North Node in Libra (his Inner Warrior and competitor coming out)

A Mars Return (good physical energy)

Another professional finding it difficult to acclimatize and maybe not showing it.  But some splendid starting transits, too!

His transits for the final show:-

Neptune still opposite his natal Chiron in Virgo

Uranus trine his Chiron (helpful for pulling out surprises)

Chiron square his natal Neptune (some wobbliness)

Saturn sextile his natal Uranus (skill)

Jupiter opposite his natal Neptune (spiritual confusion; maybe the adjustment to the new show, not in his home country)

Jupiter still trine his natal Saturn

South Node on his natal Sun (past life karma catching up with him)

A mixed bag; I think he will put his all into this season, and the pair will do well.  I would echo the placing as for Balvinder: “she could last until the semi-final or the final itself.  She’ll do her best to push through.”

Ross King

Ross King is the only one of these four for whom I have a birth time, because he was born in Scotland where they routinely recorded times.  He regularly broadcasts on Hollwood celebrity news (Neptune in the 10^th House of Career) on the morning Lorraine programme.  Accordingly we have as his vital statistics Sun in Pisces, Moon in Virgo and Acendant in Capricorn.  His chart is dominated by the celebrity glamour planet Neptune, which is also the planet for dance.  So he won’t be completely out of place on the dance floor.  But at sixty-three he is probably one of the oldest contestants. Venus trine Neptune will be especially helpful.  He may have a shaky start, but once his instincts kick in, he may be able to go with the flow.  He won’t lack enthusiasm (Mars conjunct Jupiter), and will enjoy the experience.  Like Stefan Dennis he has the Chancer Archetype (Jupiter opposite Uranus).  Both Ross and Bhavinder have Neptune square their Nodal Axes natally, which put them at a slight disadvantage, but give them strong reasons to persevere and try and master the art.  He was born in Glasgow but moved to L.A. in 2000, and has hobnobbed with the Hollywood greats.

His transits for the opening show this weekend are:-

Pluto sextile his natal Midheaven in 11^th House – an important change in his lifestyle and the opportunity to make new friends

Uranus square to his Sun – out of his comfort zone

Uranus on his I.C. – the ground shifting under him!

Jupiter opposite his Ascendant – new relationships

Jupiter sextile his natal Moon in Virgo in his 8^th House – a new perspective on life and emotion

Mars sextile his natal Uranus – an exciting new physicality

It will shake him up and stimulate him!

His transits for the final show:-

Pluto still sextile his natal Midheaven in 11^th House – part of a long term deepening of his life experience

Uranus square his natal Uranus – a disruption in his life, in some ways

Chiron square to his Ascendant – he may have sustained a minor injury along the way

Chiron sextile his natal Jupiter – but he should heal quickly

Jupiter still opposite his Ascendant – new relationships: the social side may be the main reason destiny brought him to this experience

North Node trine his natal Neptune in Scorpio in his 10^th House – he will have found his inner dancer

He may attain the middle of the road!

Ross King is paired with Jowita Przystal, who won amazingly with Hamza Yassin in 2022.  She is currently being linked romantically with last year’s partner Pete Wicks.  I wrote in 2022: “She is a performing Leo, with Mercury sextile Jupiter (signifying prowess in linguistics and wide-ranging travel).  Her dominant element is Water (5 planets), so she will portray emotion well.”

Her transits for the opening show this weekend are:-

Jupiter opposite her natal Neptune/Uranus conjunction in Capricorn

Mars sextile her natal Sun (putting a lot of energy into it initially)

The North Node trine her North Node (a good time karmically for her

Her transits for the final show:-

Uranus square to her Sun (slightly detached)

Chiron square her natal Uranus/Neptune conjunction in Capricorn

Saturn trine her natal Pluto (a show of strength)

Mars opposite her natal Mars

The South Node on her Chiron

It looks as though she’ll be feeling rebellious at the end of the tournament, perhaps looking for new pathways, or new healing avenues.  This does not look like the winning pairing, but as I said for Ross, they could attain the middle of the road.

Well of these four, Stefan Dennis looks the best bet, but his partner doesn’t, and he doesn’t rate himself!  I will be back in a few weeks analysing another four.  Keep viewing!

Aspects

This morning Saturn opposed the Sun.  This could produce frustration in the cold light of day, but on a more creative rather than specifically mental level.  Pushing projects further may be a struggle.  The skies may be a little overcast with some rainfall or showers…We need to assess all our exciting ideas in the cold light of day, whether they will work in practice, etc.  We need to digest the current state of progress, and discriminate about what is worthwhile, what may be pie in the sky or overly romanticized.  There may be feelings of deflation, or feeling unappreciated.

A Solar Eclipse/New Moon follows this evening at 29 degrees Virgo.  The New Moon is always a good opportunity to start afresh.  If 29 degrees Virgo is a meaningful point in your chart that will intensify your experience.  Ecology and the environment are one of the provinces of Virgo, so benefits could accrue for the planet if enough minds are concentrated on this aspect of life.  Bear in mind eclipses are turning points.

Celia Fenn reports this morning:

“This is such a powerful eclipse at 29 degrees of Virgo. So, it is closing karma and allowing us to open into a new chapter after the Equinox…I woke up feeling really weird and wired and a little depressed [see my description of Saturn opposing the Sun this morning]. I realised I was shifting a lot of “stuff” and had been doing so in my sleep state as well.”

Tomorrow (Monday 22^nd) Mars enters Scorpio in the morning.  That is a brisker energy than its sojourn through Libra, though it puts some people automatically into battle mode.  If you are a pacifist, just observe.  If you are a warrior, your power may be heightened.  If you are a diplomat, be ready.  Mars will be in the battle zone until 4^th November, so take your position, and may everyone do their best in the effort to express the best of this dynamism.

The Autumn Equinox occurs in the evening, aka the Sun’s entry into Libra, bringing back some peace.  That could bring a change of pace and mood.  It is a good time to take stock of the events of the Summer, and embrace the colourful Autumn prospects: different, but equally beautiful.  Libra may draw you to artistic or musical pursuits, new relationships, or an interest in the law and justice.

Neptune opposes the Sun on Tuesday (23^rd).  Fogginess could be obscuring your aims.  Try to apply yourself to the basics and look at the detail (though that may seem impossible).  Grounding may be needed.  The new Strictly contestants may be floundering on the dance floor…

In the early hours of Wednesday (24^th) the Sun trines Uranus.  Dreams may be vivid, and surprising.  This trine may give you the go ahead to forge ahead with innovative plans and original creativity.  This is a hopeful influence, and can also bring surprise.  Record your dreams on waking, and take action if they guide you.

Breakfast time brings a trine between the Sun and Pluto.  We therefore have an Air Grand Trine situation of the Sun in Libra, Pluto in Aquarius, and Uranus in Gemini, which could be dynamic if you can grasp it.  You can be sustained by the fortitude of this aspect, which is deals with the important and deep stuff of life and psychology.  You may experience and contemplate in great depth, and any creativity will have this profound quality imbued within it.  You may find that you have made more real progress than you thought, and your patience is rewarded.  There could be a revelation.

Late morning is the tester: Pluto squares Mars, one of the most volatile aspects of the year (the two warmongerers squaring up to each other).    It’s a combination which can give way to riots or situations which can get out of hand.  Prepare your stock of peaceful vibes beforehand so that you can send out a blast of soothing comfort wherever you go.  You may need all your conflict resolution skills.  No doubt Russia and Israel will be carrying out some bombing, that day.

After that, there are no more aspects this week!  The planets are taking some time out, after their efforts, and after the Pluto/Mars explosiveness.

Time for you to recoup, rest, relax.

The week in bullet points:

• Today – frustration and delay; turning point and new beginning
• Tomorrow – war; peace
• Tuesday – confusion
• Wednesday – innovation; deep meaning; warriors will be warriors

Virgo Archetypes

[The main blog will follow shortly]

I am writing about the Virgo Archetypes today, before the month of Virgo is out!  This is the seventh of my new series specifically on astrological Archetypes.  It is time to embrace the potential of this sign, turning the spotlight on its Archetypes.  It has turned decidedly autumnal of late, part of the charm of the Virgo season for some. We’re embedded in work schedules, hoping to make progress and headway in Virgoan areas of our lives.

A few words about Virgos: Ruled by Mercury, they are often happy to work behind the scenes, unless they have a strong component of their neighbouring sign Leo.  They can be modest, or even self-deprecatory.  There’s a strong interest in health, diet and hygiene, as well as ecology.  And of course, there’s that legendary perfectionism.  Recognize those traits in the Virgos you know?

So, following, are some thoughts I highlighted back in my 2015 blog, and then some examples of Virgo and its Archetypes, including from history:

“The Bluestocking

I have known several Virgo bluestockings in my time!  The Bluestocking is a studious, intellectual woman, so named after a society founded in the 18^th Century by Elizabeth Montagu, who had her North Node (karmic mission) in Virgo exactly conjunct Pluto with Mars and Venus close by.  She gave birth to a sexual stereotype, depicted graphically by the planets clustered around her North Node in Virgo.

The Servant

The Virgoan is just as talented and accomplished as anyone else, but often chooses to work behind the scenes.  Thus the Servant is a common Archetype for this sign.  Caroline Myss describes this Archetype as engaging “aspects of the psyche that call us to make ourselves available to others for the benefit and enhancement of their lives.”

Virgoans are often found as health workers and therapists, and Chiron “The Wounded Healer” is often ascribed to this sign.

The Martyr

This Archetype is shared with Pisces, and Virgo forms a polarity with that sign.  It is a polarity which is much associated with the story of Jesus and the Crucifixion (through Pisces) and his mother Mary, particularly associated with Virgo.

A very ordinary way in which Virgoans can typify the Martyr Archetype is their insistence that they will do something themselves in order to make a better job of it, rather than entrust it to someone else.  This can start as an expression of their perfectionism, but in a relationship interaction can turn into a martyr complex, especially if anger and resentment are involved.

Religious Figure

Mother Mary, the Virgin Mary, is the archetypal religious figure for Virgo, representing purity and associated with the immaculate conception.  Some may regard her as a Deity, Goddess, or Master in the New Age sense (female Masters seem not to be called Mistresses).

Famous Example:  Queen Elizabeth 1,  The Virgin Queen, born 7 September 1533.

Caroline Myss says of the Virgin Archetype generally: ‘Needs to be explored symbolically as a pattern that represents not only purity, but also the beginning point of creation, as in bringing forth virgin ideas.’ “

To which I would add:

The Medic/ e.g. Health Visitor, Homeopath etc.

Virgoans are often to be found working in the NHS or in complementary medicine as carers and therapists.

The Craftsman/Craftswoman

And The Jeweller

[my Past Life Archetype Card reads:]

“My name is Hans and I am a specialist precision watchmaker in Zermatt.  People don’t try to take the trouble to do a fine job anymore, but I uphold that tradition and hope it continues in generations to come.  I do not presume to understand the world, but I know my place in it.  I start with a spotless environment – you won’t find any dust in my watches!”

Ecologist/Environmentalist

Virgos are often very sensitive to the environment, and their life work may involve the many urgent issues we have in combatting climate change.

I was once entering a restaurant with a Virgo Ascendant friend, who is very sensitive to pollution.  We were asked “Do you have any allergies?”  The reply was “Only to the environment!”

The Specialist

Especially those who have bunched up sections in a birth chart, and are pedantic and fastidious about their craft, whatever their craft.  I know one family who are predominantly Virgoan, one perfectionistic about his photography with a heightened eye for detail, and another perfectionistic in his film-making.  The Virgoan can achieve precision in their work, be it in artwork (miniatures and mosaics for example), music or science.

The Community Worker

Virgo is associated, through its 6th House rulership especially, with working for the community.  Now I don’t know many people in these parts (West Norfolk) but I know three prominent people working on behalf of the community, and all three are Virgos.

In case a definition of Community Worker is called for, here’s one:

“Community workers play a vital role in improving the lives of disadvantaged individuals and communities by facilitating change and advocating for their needs.”

Background Workers

I am thinking mainly of background workers in the theatre and television, such as those who work on scenery and props, maybe starting as runners.  Virgos prefer to work unseen generally, but then again if Leo is also present in the chart, they may perform upfront.  In the Virgo family I mentioned earlier, the Virgo daughter has a Leo Ascendant, and has chosen to tread the boards.

Historical/more in-depth Examples:

The Virgin Queen

Queen Elizabeth I (7/9/1533 – 24/3/1603)

One of our greatest monarchs Queen Elizabeth I, known as the Virgin Queen, obviously had some regal Leo in there.  But her Sun was in Virgo (exactly sextile Saturn for responsibility).  The Leo connection was in her North Node in Leo (her karmic mission).  Her Sun in Virgo was in her 9^th House of foreign affairs – she certainly cast her net wide, globally.

She was named the Virgin Queen because it was expected that she would marry and produce an heir but despite many liaisons, she never did.  As an Archetype, it is rare, though there may be many historic examples around the world.  But in terms of character, I have known people to fit the brief – again with a touch of Leo mixed in with Virgo.

The Selfless Servant

Mother Theresa of Calcutta (26/8/1910 – 5/9/1997)

“By blood, I am Albanian. By citizenship, an Indian. By faith, I am a Catholic nun. As to my calling, I belong to the world. As to my heart, I belong entirely to the Heart of Jesus.”

~ Mother Theresa

There is much I could write about Mother Theresa’s chart, but I will choose just a few highlights:

Three personal planets in Virgo the sign of Service, including the Sun.  Sun trine Saturn (duty and responsibility).  Mercury square Pluto (tackling deep problems).  Venus in Leo (a magnanimous heart).  Venus square Saturn (renouncing personal needs).  Uranus closely trine North Node (unusual karmic mission).  Pluto trine Chiron (a profound service).  Neptune square Midheaven (charitable work in the world).

Mother Theresa was born in Skopje, and raised a Catholic, and now a Catholic saint.  She established her mission on behalf of the poor of Calcutta in 1950, a work which she performed until her death.  She received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1979.

I mentioned her briefly in September 2007 when Anita Roddick died:

“Anita’s leaving, like Diana and Mother Teresa’s was close to an eclipse in Virgo, thus highlighting the Virgoan virtues they came to show.”

So, in summary, in contemplating your own link to the sign of Virgo and for those you know, you can explore for the next few days until the Autumn Equinox (18.19 Hrs on 23^rd), this segment of the zodiac.  You may notice that with your Virgo family, friends and acquaintances, some of them have more than one of these Archetypes, and you may reel at their capacity to look at the minutiae and detail!  Notice too that some families have a particular sign as their theme, so perhaps they may be working on that theme in a common purpose in this incarnation as a soul group.

The Deputy Labour Leadership Contest

Bridget Phillipson and Lucy Powell

Among the drama-laden political stories of the week (which included the sacking of Peter Mandelson, and the shooting of Charlie Kirk), the search began for the successor to Angela Rayner as Deputy Prime Minister.  Her strength in her role was shown in her chart by an exact conjunction of Mars and the North Node in Leo (a Karmic Warrior).  She was once touted as a future Prime Minister.

Bridget Phillipson’s Birth Chart

“Our state schools need teachers more than private schools need embossed stationery. Our children need mental health support more than private schools need new pools. Our students need careers advice more than private schools need AstroTurf pitches.”

~ Bridget Phillipson

Bridget Phillipson, currently Education Secretary, has the Sun in Sagittarius, an unusual sign for a politician as it happens.  She has a satellitium of 4 planets in that sign, making her a specialist, which includes a triple conjunction of Jupiter/Sun/Neptune.  This triple conjunction suggests that she is deeply motivated by her faith, which in her case is Roman Catholicism.  She is born close to a Full Moon in Gemini, and, with strong emotions, full mooners can ruffle a few feathers sometimes.  She has the positive benefits of the Sun closely conjunct Jupiter, which provides a certain amount of optimism.  Neptune adds some sensitivity.  We do not have a birth time for her, so cannot properly assess her Moon aspects, but a noon chart would show the Moon closely trine Mars – she has appeared to vehemently stand her ground on episodes of Question Time.  Venus in Scorpio conjunct Saturn can result in harsh feelings at times, especially when criticized about Education policies.  But she has Mars trine the North Node, so a positive warrior position karmically, and Mars is in Libra which is capable of conciliation.  It must be noted that in her chart she has relatively few aspects, though the interpretation of that may be up for grabs: one possible interpretation is that of a lack of self-knowledge.

Bridget – Life and Career

Bridget Maeve Phillipson was born in Gateshead. To her credit, she is a local MP still serving in her area (Houghton and Sunderland South) – a rarity, these days!  Good Northern Stock – and it was pointed out by a few notables when Angela Rayner left office that we need a Northern female replacement.  There is still a lot of levelling up to do!

She attended a Catholic School, joined the Labour Party at 15, and studied modern history and modern languages at Oxford University.  She worked in local government, and for Women in Need (following in her mother’s footsteps).  At the 2010 General Election she was elected MP.  She campaigned to Remain at the time of the 2016 Brexit referendum.  She was a supporter of Keir Starmer in the 2020 Labour leadership election, and became Shadow Education Secretary in 2021.  With Moon in Gemini, Education is a natural interest.  She progressed to Secretary of State for Education and Minister for Women and Equalities when Keir Starmer formed a government in July 2024.  This was an elevation for her (with Neptune sextile her natal Chiron, the North Node trine her natal Uranus, and Chiron trine her natal Jupiter), but she had some more severe transits (Pluto square her natal Pluto, and Neptune square her natal Neptune), which may show the scale of the task and the bumpiness of the road ahead.

What has she achieved?  She has clearly impressed her fellow MPs, having gained more votes than any other contenders thus far in the contest. When in opposition, she stressed her aims of catering for the care of children at all stages of education. Among her achievements are bringing breakfast clubs to schools.  Another development in the school system in this period is VAT on private education, though that may be laid at the door of Rachel Reeves.

Bridget’s Transits for the Contest

Bridget put her name forward on 9^th September, and quickly established a lead among the six candidates.  Her transits were Chiron trine her natal Sun (helpful) and Saturn square her natal Neptune (stressful).  She led with nominations from 175 Labour MPs, so has clearly earned their respect.  She is also the favoured candidate from Keir Starmer’s point of view, the one most likely to support him without conflict.

The results are due on 25^th October, by which time her transits will have changed:-

Pluto will be square her natal Pluto (psychological challenge), Neptune Retrograde almost square her natal Neptune; these two transits operating at the time she began her role as Education Minister.  Chiron will be almost trine her natal Jupiter (another transit which was operating at that time, because of planets in retrograde – could it mean she will be staying as Secretary of State for Education?).  Saturn will square her natal Sun (responsibility, or disappointment? and the Nodal Axis will be square her natal Nodal Axis, forming a Grand Cross: a karmic time, to be sure.  Finally, the North Node will be almost trine her natal Venus, implying that whatever happens, she will be comfortable with it on a personal level.

Lucy Powell’s Birth Chart

“I really want this government to succeed, but I’m not afraid to speak truth where that truth needs to be spoken”

~ Lucy Powell

Lucy Powell, until Keir Starmer’s recent cabinet re-shuffle Leader of the House of Commons, has the Sun in Libra, with a satellitium of 5 planets in that sign, also making her a specialist.  Would that indicate that they should both stay put?  Except for the fact that Lucy has just lost her role, so it may be that fate has freed up her energies for a different role.  Intensifying the diplomatic skills of Libra, Lucy has the Sun conjunct Venus.  But she too has warriorship, with the Sun closely conjunct Mars, in Libra, the sign of peace.  Though born 9 years apart, Bridget and Lucy’s Marses are exactly conjunct, at 17 degrees Libra – they belong in the same cabinet, working together.  Astrologically, Lucy does not have an easy chart, with some awkward squares (including a T-square), suggesting she may not have had as easy a life as it seems on the surface.  Again, we do not have her birth time, but in a Noon chart, the Moon is exactly trine Neptune, indicating emotional sensitivity, and the qualities of a good listener (a quality some MPs, such as Emily Thornberry) have pinpointed as being the need of the hour for the government.  In another interesting link with Bridget, their Nodal Axes are opposite each other, so could balance out each other, if they overcome any differences they might have.  Mercury trine Jupiter in Lucy’s chart shows a good, wide-ranging mind.

Lucy – Life and Career

Lucy Powell was born in Moss Side, Manchester, so is another “Northern lass”, fulfilling that particular requirement.  Her position on the politican spectrum has been described as “soft left” of the Labour party.  She also studied at Oxford University, taking Chemistry as her subject, and she too is MP for her local area (Manchester Central), having been elected in 2012.  She too campaigned for Remain in the Brexit referendum in 2016.  The two must have a sense of shared values.  Lucy gained much political experience, first in Ed Milliband’s shadow cabinet, but also under Jeremy Corbyn (as Shadow Education minister).  However she resigned, with others, from Corbyn’s shadow government, on 26^th June 2016  The aspects for that day of mass resignations was Pluto trine Jupiter/North Node (potent karma).  In her own personal chart, Neptune was square her Nodal Axis (karmic confusion over her path).

She was appointed Leader of the Commons when Keir Starmer formed his government on 5^th July 2024.  This was her Chiron Return in Aries, and Jupiter was trine her ruling planet Venus.

What has she achieved?  In her wider and more general role, she has helped to bring about several parliamentary reforms, including supporting improved accessibility for disabled MPs.

In Keir’s re-shuffle on 5^th September, she was axed in her role and replaced by Alan Campbell.  Her transits when axed were Chiron opposite her natal Uranus (shock), and Jupiter square her natal Mars, plus a Mars return in Libra.  As I have mentioned, it may have been a freeing up for a possible new phase in her life.

In a Guardian Article, Peter Walker tells us that Lucy Powell was shocked and received no explanation. Do we know why he removed her and appointed Alan Campbell?  A possible clue is “She said she believed it could be because she sometimes passed on MPs’ concerns to Downing Street”. She has called for a “change of culture” inside the government and says if elected she would take “difficult truths” to Keir.  Of course, Bridget would be his preferred candidate, but that may not be the best thing.  Lucy’s transits at the time of the announcement of the new deputy are lacklustre, but that doesn’t count her out altogether astrologically.  In her favour, the North Node (karma) was trine her natal Saturn in Cancer at the time she threw her name into the hat, which shows she is up for more responsibility.

Bridget is patently a strong woman, and would be a good support for Keir Starmer.  Lucy has a vast amount of political experience, and she could make a good counterpoise to Keir Starmer, where Bridget would likely just promote more of the same.

Andy Burnham

The Guardian declared this week that “MPs have shared data showing Andy Burnham is Labour’s only politician with a net positive public rating the equivalent of a rave review”.  I know there is a lot of support for him out there, but I don’t know the logistics of him being able to lead, with his currently entrenched role as Mayor of Manchester.  He certainly has proved himself worthy of the position.

His chart, too, looks qualified, with Leadership and Warriorship packed into aspects of:-

The Sun exactly sextile Mars, the Sun closely sextile the North Node, and Mars conjunct the North Node (the Sun sextile Mars/North Node).  Note he has the same conjunction as Angela Rayner (Mars conjunct North Node) but two degrees apart, where hers was exact.  He was born on a New Moon, a positive lunar phase.  And he has Mercury closely trine Pluto (depth of thought).  He’s a Capricorn, the sign born for Politics.

So I thought I would check his transits around the time of the choice being revealed, which are interesting:-

He will have Pluto almost sextile his natal Neptune in Sagittarius; Neptune sextile his natal Mercury in Capricorn; Uranus opposite his natal Neptune in Sagittarius; and a Nodal Return, with the North Node sextile his natal Sun in Capricorn.

With such a concentration of Neptunian influences, it suggests a period of flux, of re-considering his position.  Perhaps he is working towards leadership, but I understand he would have to become an MP first.

Of the two protagonists, I personally would prefer Lucy Powell (and, yes, I still have a membership vote!), and there is support for her in my area too.  But Andy Burnham in the long term seems a bright prospect.  With the divisions in the world at the moment, we need people who can somehow bridge the polarities, which seems an impossible task right now.  And Socialism needs to be able to fulfil its promise to look after the welfare of the poor, vulnerable and disabled.

Aspects

We are awash with aspects this week, though they don’t begin until Tuesday, and then three come along.

In the early hours of Tuesday (16^th) Venus sextiles Mars, a largely enjoyable entanglement.  This aspect is given over to pleasure and indulgence, and maybe romance is also on the cards.  Art will have vigour, and movement will have artistry or elegance under this influence.  Social plans should flourish. As experienced specifically in the early hours, this aspect may give rise to sensuous dreams!

The other two aspects involve Chiron, and accordingly have healing themes:

Venus trines Chiron, and the healing power of Love may come to the fore.  Try to keep the heart open, and keep the faith.  There may be a real opportunity to re-group your healing energies and feel harmony within your being.  This is something especially relevant now, with society being torn apart with negative emotions, on both sides of the Atlantic.

Finally, Chiron will oppose Mars, which is more challenging.  This can highlight wounds, mainly of the psychological kind.  Something may be flagged up for you to heal.  Perhaps a longstanding misunderstanding in the family, especially concerning the male of the species.  We may be surprised to hear how deeply someone feels about an issue, which might hitherto have been hidden.  We can only start to address something which has emerged in consciousness and awareness, so can thank Chiron for that process.

Wednesday (17^th) brings another opposition, that between Saturn and Mercury.  There may be a setback to a plan, or you may suddenly feel fatigued.  Challenges or blockages may occur to the smooth flow of earlier in the day.  Travelling plans may be delayed that day, for example the wrong Autumn leaves on the rail line.

An ingress occurs on the morning of Thursday (18^th), that of Mercury entering Libra.  This can bring a new mental focus on cultural themes, which could bring more pure enjoyment: art and music being fundamental areas for Libra, and decision-making. Mercury in Libra is slightly more relaxed than Mercury in Virgo, but having laid plans and attended to essential detail under the previous placement Mercury in Virgo, we can embellish, beautify and smooth things over.

In the evening, Neptune opposes Mercury, in the third opposition of the week.  This can spark mental confusion.  There may be for instance a mental dilemma, or a demand for clarification.  It may be difficult to focus, if you are engaged in documentation work.  Journeys may be long and complicated.  You may need to take care near water.

Three more astrological features to come for Friday (19^th).  In the early hours, Mercury trines Uranus, which can inspire high functioning minds, intuition and good ideas (especially for Geminians).   Uranus will add extra spice to your plans, and documentation.  Computers and technology should be on sparkling form and assist your expression.  You may spring pleasant surprises.  Writing projects may also flow.

Then at breakfast time, Mercury trines Pluto, also benefitting Geminians, as well as our mental make-up generally.  It challenges us to dig deeper.  This aspect is conducive to psychological reflection, and earnest conversations between friends or colleagues.  It is good for in-depth consultations and negotiations, and researching past lives. Something to chew on over the muesli.

These two trines enhance the atmosphere of the day, forming a Grand Trine in Air, between Mercury, Uranus and Pluto.  It is especially conducive to changing minds.

The third astrological feature of the day is the ingress of Venus into Virgo, which occurs around lunchtime, making you more discerning in your tastes.  We may also be discriminating about the company we keep (if we subscribe to such a philosophy), and be exercising caution.  We choose the catering (in a healthful, Virgoan or Vegan way), and we tailor our practices to ecological ways under this placement.  This will be a general influence until 13^th October.

A tricky transit right at the end of the week, so try and smooth the path in advance, e.g. deal with possible loopholes.  On Saturday (20^th) Uranus squares Venus, which might bring twists and turn in relationships. There may be a quirky end to a relationship or money saga, slightly out of your comfort zone (especially for Taureans and Librans).  Your plans may have to be modified at the last minute.  The way through is to use your intuition, and stay one step ahead.

The week in bullet points:

• Tuesday – sensuality; relationship healing; dealing with psychological wounds
• Wednesday – delay and frustration
• Thursday – new cultural focus; mental confusion
• Friday – sparkling minds; deep consultations; healthy choices
• Saturday – disruption in relationships and finance

Zack Polanski

New Leader of the Green Party

“A fluent media performer”

~ The Guardian

“I believe that his style and emphasis meet the challenge of the moment”

~ George Monbiot

It’s been a turbulent week for politics in the UK this week: Angela Rayner was forced to resign as Deputy Prime Minister, a cabinet reshuffle ensued, Boris-Johnson-lover Nadine Dorries defected from Conservative to Reform…But then you had to notice the election of the radical Zack Polanski as Green Party leader this week, chosen by 85% of the Greens.

Birth Chart

Zack has a specialist’s chart, planets bunched up and concentrated in a segment of the zodiac, which helps to provide the passion for his cause: after all, who doesn’t want the planet to succeed?  His Sun is in Scorpio, one of the Warrior signs, and he exhibits one of its possible archetypes, The Firebrand.  Scorpio is also the sign of the Hypnotist (Paul McKenna having Sun conjunct Neptune in the sign), a former occupation of Polanski.  The Sun is exactly conjunct Venus in his chart, and Venus representing the voice, he has sung for the London Gospel Choir.  Venus is also trine his North Node – could that be providing some charm and charisma?  His Sun loosely conjunct Jupiter is useful, providing a certain amount of Luck.  It is trine the North Node, providing leadership qualities.  He was born with the Moon in Taurus, born just after a Full Moon.  The Scorpio/Taurus polarity is obdurate and determined.  Though with his variety of talents, he has chopped and changed quite a bit (having originally begun his politics with the Lib Dems, and tried a few different career paths).  He has Mercury sextile Mars, like last week’s subject Richard Osman: giving him a quick and incisive wit, but also in his case, he talks ten to the dozen, as you could expect with this aspect.  I would advise him to tone it down a bit, especially for us pensioners listening (I know at least one pensioner who finds him aggressive).  A triple conjunction of Saturn/Pluto/Mercury, inclines his thinking processes towards serious matters, a factor in his choice of politics as a career.

Life and Career

Polanski was born in Salford, into a Jewish family.  His parents divorced when he was young.  He was educated at Stockport Grammar School, and then Aberystwyth University. He worked initially as an actor with a theatre company, and taught at arts institutions (Sun exactly conjunct Venus, and Venus trine his North Node natally).  He then hitched his wagon to the Liberal Democrats for a couple of years, before joining the Green Party in 2017.  He was elected a Member of the London Assembly on 6^th May 2021 – his transits included Jupiter trine his natal Mercury in Libra, a win and an expansion; and Mars transiting his natal North Node in Cancer, a trigger for his karmic mission.  He was elected Deputy Leader of the Green Party on 7^th September 2022.

But this week, on Tuesday 2^nd September, he gained the top job in his party.  And his transits were stunning:

Chiron was opposite his natal Saturn in Libra, denoting Responsibility (this is a theme in his transits generally, and may make more sense if we had a birth time);  Jupiter was trine his natal Jupiter, a Triumph, his Luck coming in.  Traditionally, it denotes a Win!

In addition, the North Node in Pisces formed a Grand Water Trine with Natal Jupiter in Scorpio and transiting Jupiter in Cancer!  His time has come.  What he does with it, only time will tell.  He has followed his Karma to get to this longed-for point, with the North Node centrally involved.

John Crace has commented:

“Those of us with long memories might feel we have heard all this before…But Polanski sounded as if he believed it more than most.  This was his moment and he was going to make the most of it.” And

“If you can’t dare to dream on your first day in the new job, when can you?”

Policies

So, what does he stand for?  He has labelled himself an “eco-populist”, and links the climate with all the issues facing us.  With the threat of the Reform party, he wants to secure over 30 seats for the Greens at the next election.  He sees the Labour government as failing, and sees a gap in the market.  He has indicated possibly working with the emerging Corbynite party (Corbyn has congratulated him).  He is very vocal about the genocide in Gaza.  He wants to renationalize the water companies.  He is unsure of our relationship with NATO.  The Guardian Leader summed up  his stance as “Mr Polanski speaks of a climate-anchored politics rooted in solidarity with workers and migrants”.

He also wants to tax the wealthy.  In his own words:

“For years now, the very richest in society have accumulated more and more wealth.  While they sleep at night, the money pours in, not from work, but from assets such as stocks, shares and multiple properties.”

Millionaire entrepreneurs Dale Vince (owner of the company Ecotricity) and Deborah Meaden have both spoken out in support of taxing the wealthy.

In conclusion, time will tell, and the proof of the pudding is in the eating, to employ a couple of old cliches…We need something to galvanize fair changes and to counteract far-right populism.  We need more action on Net Zero to counteract climate change.  He may or may not be the one to deliver it.

“He must balance an attention-grabbing style with the risk of alienating the party’s other main power base, its MPs, or the chunk of members who remain sceptical about his talents and approach”

~ Peter Walker, The Guardian

Aspects

This evening brings a Full Moon and Eclipse at 15 degrees Pisces.  Pisces is one of the most sensitive and emotional Full Moons of the year, so treat yourself with tender loving care and you can then treat others with that sensitivity.  The Pisces Full Moon reminds us that we are all One.  As it is an Eclipse, it is extra potent and may be a turning point, especially if you have an angle or planet at 15 degrees of a sign.  Also, pay attention to the House if falls in, if you know it.

On Wednesday (10^th) the Sun is opposite North Node, and conjunct the South Node.  It may take that intervening time to digest the experiences of the Eclipse on Sunday (7th).  The Sun on the South Node can mean past karmic glory coming home to roost; for the most part that can be a positive gain.  The South Node in Virgo relates to past lives in connection with service, and working on minutiae.  This can also refer to earlier phases in this lifetime.  On the world stage, there seems nothing glorious anytime soon emerging from the current conflicts – the karmic lessons of this aspect need yet more time to work out.

The upside of this aspect can bring light and insight into past actions and memories, and fostering existing talents.  It can bring forward the talents you developed in past lives, but also enable you to release habits you no longer need.

Sunnier prospects on Friday (12^th), the best day of the week, with one of the best aspects of the year: the Sun sextile Jupiter.  Time to embrace hope, or even celebration.  It will certainly be lucky for some.  Focus on what makes you happy, and make more of that.  It’s the sort of day that can restore your faith in human nature.

There’s another sextile in the evening, boosting our mental energy: Mercury sextile Jupiter.  Some good news may be possible. This aspect favours communication, sales and travel.  Higher learning is also a benefit – e.g.  the anticipation of “fresher” further education students.  It’s a good time to practice any new language skills, too.  It is a time to forge good connections with business, and may benefit small businesses.

The Sun conjoins with Mercury at 20 degrees Virgo on Saturday (13^th).  This may bring an opportunity to apply your mind with clarity,  concentrate and focus,  and make important statements.  The focus may be on working schedules and documentation or environmental projects.  Mentally you may be able to see things clearly. If you know which House Virgo occupies in your chart, you’ll find that area of your life to be exceptionally busy.

The week in bullet points:

• Today – emotional turning point
• Wednesday –emphasis on past karma
• Friday – embrace hope; minds brightened
• Saturday – concentration and clarity

Richard Osman

There’s a new pinnacle in the career of television presenter, producer, and novelist  Richard Osman this week, with the premiere of an all star film based on his first book in the series “The Thursday Murder Club”.  With the book series numbering four, soon to be five, this could be the beginning of a whole new franchise.

Birth Chart

With half his planets (5) in Mutable signs, Richard can turn his hand to anything.  The Sun in Sagittarius often produces physical height, but with his out of the ordinary stature of 6 feet 7 inches, I suspect a long-limbed Aquarian Ascendant (we do not have his birth time).  Richard is predominantly Sagittarian, having a cluster of planets in that sign (a satellitium of Neptune/Sun/Moon/Mercury), and being born under a New Moon in that sign.  New Mooners have an ability to easily start afresh, with new ideas, and that has characterized his career.  He has some interesting natal aspects, including the Sun exactly trine Chiron, which indicates a highly-developed ability in problem-solving.  The next exact aspect he has is Mercury sextile Mars: a quick and incisive wit.  Mercury is sextile the North Node in Aquarius, linking his mental prowess with his karmic mission.  Mars is closely trine the North Node, giving him a strong Inner Warrior.

Life and Career

Richard Osman was born in Billericay.  His father left the family when he was nine years old, and his mother attended teacher training college to try to support the family.  He obtained some experience in broadcasting while still at school, in local radio, before attending Trinity College, Cambridge where he studied Politics and Sociology.  In television, he has worked for many years as a producer, especially on game shows, including on “Deal or No Deal”.  He worked for Hat Trick Productions, and then became creative director at the TV company Endemol for a number of years.  It was in this capacity that he came up with the idea of the quiz show “Pointless”, which made him a household name as co-presenter.

Pointless

The hugely successful show Pointless was launched on 24^th August 2009, and is still part of our daily tea-time fare today.  Neptune was sextile his natal Mercury at the time and trine his natal Mars.  Mars was also square his natal Pluto, a huge challenge, but crucially the North Node was trine his natal Pluto (karma supporting his power).

Until he left the programme in 2022 (a thirteen year stint), the format was Alexander Armstrong as main presenter, and Osman as fact checker (in fact he was much more than that, in the production of the programme).  The easy camaraderie between the two presenters was a warm feature of the programme.

Alexander Armstrong

The two friends met while at University.  Born the other end of the same year (1970), there are similarities in their charts which are not connected with their year of birth, such as both having 5 Mutable planets, and both having Mercury sextile Mars.  Notably they both have Jupiter opposite Saturn, a feature of their year group, an internal set of checks and balances.

In their synastry, their Mercuries exactly sextile (mentally in sync); Armstrong’s Mercury is exactly trine Osman’s Mars, adding to their communicative vigour; and Armstrong’s Venus exactly trine Osman’s Jupiter, a great inter-aspect for friendship.

And Alexander Armstrong’s transit at the time of the inception of Pointless also owed backing from Neptune (pointlessness?), with Neptune transiting his natal Mercury.  At the same time, Uranus was opposite his natal Pluto, indicating a huge change in his life

Authorship

Richard’s debut as a novelist came in 2020, with the publication of “The Thursday Murder Club” on 3^rd September.  It immediately became a bestseller.  It was launched under a superbly entrepreneurial aspect of the Sun trine Jupiter/Uranus (budding authors take note). Supporting transits for this next huge step in his career, were as follows: –

Jupiter trine his natal Saturn in Taurus (his natal planet supporting his efforts); Mars sextile his natal North Node (movement in his karmic mission) and the South Node on his natal Mercury in Sagittarius (a karmic potential of his mental output realized).

He announced that he was leaving Pointless on 8^th April 2022, to concentrate on his literary work, after 1,300 episodes across 30 series.  This announcement came as Pluto trined his natal Pluto – Self-Empowerment, leaving a long-running programme; Neptune square his natal Mercury (changing his mental focus); Chiron was opposite his natal Uranus, just after his Chiron Return in Aries (a re-assessment of what he needed for his own healing); and Mars trine his natal Mars, decisive action.

Three more books followed: The Man who died Twice (2021), The Bullet that Missed (2023) and The Last devil to Die (2024).  The next book is due later this month.

Steven Spielberg

Steven Spielberg immediately signalled interest in the potential of the first book to be made into a film, which at the time I thought was remarkable.  He is another Sagittarian, and Sagittarians can often magnify each other’s work, through the joint application of their ruling Jupiters.  As Sagittarians, some of their personal planets do jostle with each other.  In addition, they do have a strong karmic link: Osman’s North Node is exactly sextile with Spielberg’s Sun.

Spielberg has his natal Sun at the Galactic Centre, accounting for his power. It was confirmed in August 2020 that Spielberg had acquired the film rights. In the event, Spielberg was not directly involved in the film adaptation, but remained associated with the project as an executive producer through his company, and regularly visited the set. The film was directed by Chris Columbus.

The Film

As with the book, the story centres itself in a retirement home, with some powerful inmates: one was a spy, one a nurse, one a trade union official and the other was a psychiatrist.  Together, they have all the tools they need to solve murder mysteries. The star-studded cast included Helen Mirren, Pierce Brosnan, Ben Kingsley and Celia Imrie.

The transits for Richard at the Premiere included Chiron sextile his North Node.  With Chiron exactly trine his Sun natally, Chiron transits feature prominently in his life.  A positive Chiron transit such as this one signals that he is on the right track in his life.

Helen Mirren plays the lead protagonist, Elizabeth Best, the former MI5 agent.  Helen has natally Chiron at 0 degrees Libra and Mars at 1 degree Gemini, and so with the current dance of Pluto, Neptune, Uranus, and Saturn at these degrees, there is a high impact at this time for her, and this role is important to her.

I have read the first book, but I confess not the subsequent sequels, as crime fiction is not my genre.  But I am fascinating by the multi-faceted talent that is Richard Osman.

“I have no interest in watching someone from the far right and far left argue on Question Time. We want to be the best society we can, where everyone thrives, and it’s not going to be achieved by extremists shouting at each other.”

~ Richard Osman (Mars in Libra)

Aspects

Today we have Mercury trine Chiron, hopefully bringing some healing balm to the beginning of the week.  This aspect describes healing on a mental level (positive thinking, writing and affirmations), and helps to combine conventional and alternative or complementary healing approaches.  This is also a problem-solving aspect.  You may receive some re-assurance on the health front.

Tomorrow (Monday 1^st September), Saturn returns temporarily to Pisces. Saturn entered Aries in May, ushering in a huge dose of reality, and letting go of the unreality and illusions of Saturn in Pisces.  For the population in general, it is about personal growth, accountability and maturity.  You may have done some work on this in the last few months, but sense there are t’s to cross and i’s to dot in terms of evaluating the illusions of the Saturn in Pisces era (of two or three years).  These may be personal (e.g. trust issues) or political (e.g. trust issues).

There is another ingress on Tuesday (2^nd Sept), with Mercury entering Virgo.  This signals a more studious change in focus at the beginning of the next academic term.  We will be plunged into September schedules, as if we’d never been away from them!  Students and teachers will be immersed in their new schedules.  Businesses will be hoping for an extra push in efficiency for after the holiday period.  Parliamentarians will be firming up their policies, with a glance at Nigel Farage or Donald Trump, over their shoulder.  Mental application will be needed all round.

All this need for focus may take its toll, with Uranus squaring Mercury on Wednesday (3^rd).  People might feel overwrought, and needing to take a moment for mental health.  Be prepared for glitches as you open up your devices first thing.  Back up your computer files, and consider I.T. loopholes.  Speech may be controversial.  Use your intuition to be one step ahead – the Universe may be trying to show you new pathways, and possible new perspectives.  However, some new pathways may prove to be cul-de-sacs.

But it’s not all bad news for Wednesday: in fact, there might be some jolly good news, for Jupiter trines the North Node.  This favours future vision, reaping karmic rewards, and looking at life positively.  A good day to refresh your hopes, and to observe how everything is happening at the right time in divine right order.  Indeed the challenge from Uranus on the same day may provide a twist in your higher thought which proves beneficial.

Going towards the end of the week, we have Mars square Jupiter on Friday (5^th).  Excitement may spill over into uncontrolled action.  This combination can produce high jinks, fun and games, or just sheer over the top enthusiasm allied with energy – that’s what I would normally expect.  Emotions may be volatile.  Look for enthusiastic activity and fiery exchanges in your personal environment, and channel the energy constructively.

The last feature of the week occurs on Saturday (6th) in the shape of Stationary Uranus prior to its Retrograde motion.  Once again, the element of the unexpected is operating this week.  Uranus of course is the trickster, so things may not necessarily go according to plan. Plan for the unexpected, if you can.  You may see some goalposts moving.  The new regimes of the Autumn require adjustments.

The week in bullet points:

• Today – healing balm
• Tomorrow – re-evaluating illusions
• Tuesday – new diligence
• Wednesday – over-wrought; karmic reward
• Friday – high jinks!
• Saturday – plan for the unexpected

Terence Stamp (1938 – 2025)

“Master of the brooding silence”

~ The Guardian

Heart throb actor Terence Stamp die this week, aged 87.  He was part of a trend towards cockney actors in the 1960s, and was seen in the Swinging Sixties fashionably coupled to actress Julie Christie, and then to model Jean Shrimpton – the beautiful people.

Birth Chart

Sun in Cancer (with Chiron, Midheaven, Pluto and Mars) is a weight of femininity, but it is part of an exact triple conjunction (rare) with Mars and Pluto, the ultimate in masculinity.  He was close to his mum who brought him up with his grandmother and aunts (an emphasis on the sign of Cancer), but could play the most villainous of roles, especially in the second act of his career (Mars-Pluto).  Small wonder, then, that he played one of the first trans cinema roles.

This exact triple conjunction can be seen both in cinematic roles, such as in the psychological horror film “The Collector” (1965), and as the archvillain General Zod in “Superman” (1978 and 1980), but is also reflected in his accolade of being voted one of the 100 Sexiest Film Stars of All Time (1995).

The Sun trine the North Node points to the acting profession as his karmic mission.  But his Moon is also powerfully aspected, and indicates a powerful imagination: Moon conjunct Uranus in 8^th House, Moon trine Neptune (sensitivity plus imagination), Neptune in 12^th House, and Moon conjunct the South Node (strong connection with his mother in past lives).  It is likely that he was able to play the allotted roles through a strong use of his imagination.

His Venus was unaspected, but in Virgo, pointing to specialized, discerning and refined tastes – he brought out two cookbooks, and a range of food and drink products, for wheat and dairy intolerance.  He was also intolerant to meat, cow’s milk and sugar.

The physique comes largely from the Ascendant, in this case Libra, the sign of Beauty, conferring the perfectly chiselled features, but also showing the deep-set eyes from the Sun exactly conjunct Pluto.  Pluto exactly conjunct Mars gave him a powerhouse of energy.

With having his birth time, we can see Jupiter in Pisces in 5^th House of Acting bringing success in that sphere; Saturn in Aries in 7^th House bringing relationship disappointments; and Neptune in the 12^th House: “As a boy I always believed I could make myself invisible”.

Life and Career

Terence was the eldest of five children, born in Stepney.  His father was a mostly absent sailor (represented in Terence’s chart by the Water Sun in Cancer).  It is said that his mother took him to see the film “Beau Geste” starring Gary Cooper, at the age of three: an event which inspired him at a tender age.  As he was born in 1938, the Blitz featured heavily in his childhood.  The family moved around the London area, and he was educated at Plaistow County Grammar School.  On leaving school, he worked in advertising, and while he entertained following the acting profession, his father disapproved.  He then won a scholarship to the Webber Douglas Academy of Dramatic Art.

His big break came as the title role in an adventure film “Billy Budd” in 1962.  Peter Ustinov cast him as much as anything for his good looks, apparently, as he was relatively short on experience.  For this role, he earned a Golden Globe Award, and nominations for the Academy Award and a BAFTA.

Michael Caine

Terence had formed an alliance and deep friendship with the also budding and cockney actor, Michael Caine.  They had met in a tour of a play “The Long the Short and the Tall”, and subsequently moved in together, in Wimpole Street, London.  That their lives were karmically entwined is shown in their synastry: Caine’s Sun sextile Stamp’s Moon and South Node; and Caine’s Venus trine Stamp’s Midheaven.  According to an article in the Guardian by Andrew Pulver, Stamp later described Caine as his guru.

Julie Christie and Jean Shrimpton

Terence Stamp was in high demand in the film world during the 1960s.  Among other roles, he played in “Far From the Madding Crowd” in 1967: “the swaggering sword-brandishing Sergeant Troy” (Andrew Pulver).  That was his iconic look as a young man.  Like a true Plutonian, he was to undergo subsequent transformations.

As a key player in the Swinging Sixties social scene, he was paired with beauties Julie Christie, an Aries, and supermodel Jean Shrimpton, a Scorpio.  Together with Shrimpton, he was one of the most-photographed couples of the time.   Stamp and Shrimpton were together for three years: their Venuses were sextile, Shrimpton’s Sun was trine Stamp’s Midheaven, and her South Node was on his Jupiter in the 5^th House.

Roles he didn’t play, intriguingly…

How certain film roles could have looked very different!

In 1966, Terence was in line for the title role in the film “Alfie”.  He turned it down, to play in the film “Modesty Blaise”, but recommended his pal Michael Caine for the part.

Caine later told us: “I still wake up sweating in the night as I see Terence agreeing to accept my advice to take the role in”.   [Caine’s Sun sextile Stamp’s Moon and South Node, seen at work, here].

Also in 1966, Stamp was replaced in the lead role of Michelangelo Antonioni’s film “Blow Up” by David Hemmings.

In 1983, Terence was approached to play James Bond when Sean Connery left the role.  In the end, George Lazenby took over as Bond.

A Quiet Decade

At the end of the 1960s, everything changed for Stamp.  Work dried up, and he has commented:

”It was a mystery to me.  I was in my prime.  When the 1960s ended, I just ended with it.”

This state of affairs may have coincided astrologically with his Saturn Return, and his Progressed Sun going into Virgo.

Of his break-up with Jean Shrimpton, he stated:

“That’s what turned me inwards”.

He is reported to have subsequently spent time in India at the ashram(s) of Krishnamurti and/or Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh.

A Career Renewed

In 1978, Stamp took on a completely different role, one which would introduce him to a whole new audience.  During his hiatus, he took time to look into himself, who he was, and what he needed to portray, now aged 40.  This is the age of the Uranus Opposition cycle, which often involves a complete turnaround.  He fully embraced his Mars-Pluto exact combination.

The new role was that of the archvillain General Zod, in the superhero franchise of Superman I and II (1978, 1980).  His portrayal of General Zod was named in the list of the “Top 50 Greatest Villains of All Time” in 2007. So very good at it, he was.  He carved a new niche for himself and a new fan base.  And his career revived generally, with a string of new films.

In 1994, in the fourth decade of his acting career, he undertook a new twist in his career, that of one of the first trans roles in film, in the Australian comedy “The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert”.  He played a trans performer flanked by two drag queens, taking a road trip across the Australian outback.  For this he earned a BAFTA and Golden Globe nomination.

More filmwork followed, including a guest appearance in the television series of Philip Pullman’s “His Dark Materials” in 2020, and culminating in his last film in 2021, entitled “Last Night in Soho”.

2002 Marriage

Having avoided marriage until the age of 64, he married on New Year’s Eve 2002.  The bride was Elizabeth O’Rourke, someone he had known since the mid-1990s.  What astrological transits could have induced him to do so at this time of his life?

Saturn was sextile his Mercury in Leo in 11^th, a commitment; Jupiter was trine his natal Saturn in 7^th House, a sense of commitment also.  Natally, Saturn’s only aspect was a square to Midheaven, so the Saturn (commitment) principle was not strong in him.  Jupiter at the time was square to his natal Uranus in Taurus in the 8^th House – he was willing to take a leap of faith; and Mars was sextile his natal Neptune in Virgo in 12^th House, a sense of inner passion and awakened mystery.

The marriage lasted less than six years, as Elizabeth divorced him on the grounds of “unreasonable behaviour” in April 2008.

Death

This week Uranus was square his natal Jupiter in the 5^th House, a shift; and the South Node was conjunct natal Neptune in 12^th House, a resting place.  Whether you regard him as the handsome lead, or the chilling villain, he is undeniably unforgettable.

“Terence was kind, funny, and endlessly fascinating. I loved … reminiscing about his films, going back to his debut in Billy Budd. Terence was a true movie star: the camera loved him, and he loved it right back”.

~ Edgar Wright

“Stamp remained a brilliantly mesmerizingly unknowable presence.  He was the seductive dark prince of British cinema; an actor who carried an air of elegant mystery”

~ Xan Brooks

Aspects

Today’s aspect of Uranus square to the Sun may make you aware of possible loopholes through which the element of the unexpected can enter.  Disruption can occur, but unexpected twists and turns may give you new ideas for future reference.

Tomorrow (Bank Holiday Monday, 25^th) we have an ingress: Venus entering Leo.  This enables you to make hay – they are at least predicting barbecue weather.  There is an opportunity to get out and about and enjoy the fruits of summer (which hasn’t finished with us yet!).  You can afford to be bold in seeking entertainment, and also polish up your performance skills.  Let your hair down while you can.

A timetable for Tuesday 26^th:

00.56 a.m. – Venus trines Saturn

This may bring encouragement, of people coming together with more commitment and loyalty, in this period of social destructiveness. As I type, we have a weekend of anti-immigrant versus anti-racist groups kept apart by policing: a headache for the current government, and an opportunity to stir the pot by opposition parties. Venus can provide a softening role to a hard line stance.  It is conciliatory, which may be just what is needed.  Relationships may need serious resolving, and this aspect can help, whether on a personal level, or between nations (for any bidders for the Nobel Peace Prize).

Occurring as it does not long after midnight, it may steal some peaceful wisdom into your night’s dreams.

20.58 Hrs  – Venus sextiles Uranus

There may be a social sparkle somewhere in your evening, even if only on social media.  It’s a good day, for the most part, for socializing and meeting new people.  Meetings are significant with the combination of Venus and Uranus, and sometimes they can be strange and spooky with an air of serendipity.

22.19 Hrs. – Venus trines Neptune

By late evening, Venus trines Neptune, which is a beautiful aspect from a social point of view, enabling spiritual links with people.  Artistically or musically, you can achieve inspirational heights.  If you’re not burning the midnight oil, maybe you are set for sweet dreams.

I’d say Wednesday (27^th) is the most difficult day of the week, with a challenging opposition between Venus and Pluto.  It’s a dramatic note, especially in terms of relationships, and possibly in relation to money and the Arts.  This can symbolize brinkmanship in relationships, such as between Trump and Putin.  In negotiations, people may be using negative tactics such as project fear, or threats of no deal. If your struggles are in the realms of art or music, you may have to go back to the drawing board on a creative project, or fundamentally change the values behind what you are creating, taking them to a higher level or a deeper level psychologically.

Finally, on Friday (29^th), we get to the most important aspect of the week, Uranus sextile Neptune, an aspect involving two big hitters.  This is a rare an unusual aspect, and I can’t speak highly enough about it.  In my New Year Review, I wrote: “A major reorganization in order to incorporate more complexity and a deeper understanding.”  Uranus is coming from Gemini and Neptune is coming from Aries, both at 1 degree of their signs, a truly reforming zeal.  This aspect is laying down terms for the future, whichever way you are looking at it, and from the personal to the universal.  In interpretating what this means for you in your life (and take into account the Houses it falls in, if you know), I would like to make immortal the words of my favourite Astrologer Alan Oken (who has now passed):

“Intuition flows or works well with Illumination.  On an individual level the result would give the ability to properly handle higher levels of consciousness and a profound interest in the occult and mystic.  On a mass level it contributes to a generalized expansion of consciousness and an awakening to new uses of heretofore untapped energy sources.”

Take what you can and weave it into your current reality, and vision of the future.

The week in bullet points:

• Today – the element of the unexpected
• Tomorrow – make hay while the Sun shines
• Tuesday – commitment and loyalty; social sparkle; inspiration
• Wednesday – a dramatic note
• Friday – balancing major complexities

Leo Archetypes

I am writing about the Leo Archetypes today, before the month of Leo is out!  This is the sixth of my new series specifically on astrological Archetypes.  It is time to embrace the potential of this sign, turning the spotlight on its Archetypes.  It’s still light in the evenings, and we have had another heatwave, and more record-breaking temperatures!  An affirmation of global warming.

A few words about Leos: Ruled by the Sun, they are associated with the patriarchy, power, pleasure-loving, sun-seeking, and hedonism; all qualities to enjoy about this holiday time of year. The object of the Leo personality is ultimately to bring sunshine into other people’s lives.

So, following, are some thoughts I highlighted back in my 2015 blog, and then some examples of Leo and their Archetypes, including from history:

“King

The King represents temporal power, and is related to the Tyrant archetype.

One example of the King Archetype is the Film Director, who controls all aspects of the making of a film.  Many Film Directors are born under Leo, and embody that total creative vision.

Examples: Alfred Hitchcock, Stanley Kubrick, Sam Mendes, Christopher Nolan, Roman Polanski, John Huston, Cecil B. de Mille, Wim Wenders, Peter Bogdanovich

Queen

Strong Leo in a chart can indicate royal connections in past lives.  Tina Turner, who thinks she was an Egyptian Queen in a past life, has a Leo Ascendant.

Specifically South Node in Leo can indicate royal past lives in Egypt.

Leo actress Helen Mirren has played the Queen on film and in theatre.  Cate Blanchett, who has played Elizabeth I, has the Sun (ruler of Leo) rising.

The Queen/Executive

In 2013  Caroline Myss published a new book on Archetypes for the modern age.  One of these is the Queen/Executive:

“Elizabeth’s [I] archetypal successor in the modern world is the Queen/Executive.  A new archetype, this is a partnering of a noble force, the Queen, with a contemporary concept of power associated with business and finance, the Executive.”  I know a Leo woman who very much fits this description.

Inner Child

Play is a natural function of Leo, and Moon in Leo brings up the Playful Child, and also the Performing Child.  We all have the Inner Child Archetype, and it is usually described accurately by our Moon Sign.

“Star Healing” by David Lawson describes this quality of Leo well: “Leos are inspired by the magical qualities of children and many Leos express their creativity through the raising, teaching or guidance of children.”

Examples of the Performer: Mick Jagger (Sun, Jupiter, Pluto, I.C., Mercury, North Node and Chiron all in Leo!) and Madonna (Sun, Uranus and Venus in Leo).  Madonna blends Leo with Virgo (Moon and Ascendant among other features) for her “Like a Virgin” image.  Performers can of course also be grown-ups.

The Father/Patriarch

Shared with the sign of Capricorn, this Archetype in its Leo manifestation brings up a feeling of Protectiveness and Guidance.  The Capricorn manifestation is more authoritarian and disciplined in nature. [Related to The Patriarch, which is more authoritarian and antiquated].

Leo Mick Jagger, is detailed below under the Performer Archetype. A Capricorn example is Rod Stewart, who has eight children, like Mick.

The Hedonist

The Hedonist is one of the primary Archetypes for Leo.  It deals with the pursuit of pleasure and leisure.  Note that whereas there are not many animal totems for Leo, there are plenty of Archetypes.

The Hero

The Hero overcomes all odds, sometimes over and over again in their lives. You can spot a Hero Archetype by their stories, which can be long and complicated with a thread of how they came through.

Shadow Side

The Tyrant or Bully can be a negative Archetype, for whatever reason, and that includes psychological bullying. Napoleon, an Archetype himself, was a Leo.  It is interesting that the Arab Spring movement, that of the Inner Rebel (Aquarius/Uranus) confronted the various Tyrants (Leo) of the Middle Eastern Countries, and Aquarius opposes Leo in the Zodiac circle.  It is one of the astrological balancing acts, Leo vs Aquarius.”

To which I would add:

The Sportsman

Leos are supremely competitive, and tend to enjoy different sports.  There isn’t one associated primarily with Leo.  But the venerated Roger Federer in the world of tennis is regarded as a king.

The Performer

Madonna is an example of a hybrid Performer/Virgin, with Sun/Venus/Uranus in Leo (the Performer) and Pluto/Mercury/Ascendant/Moon in Virgo (the Virgin; the Madonna).

The Hedonist

Mae West, who had Sun/Chiron in Leo, was quoted as saying: ““Too much of a good thing is wonderful”.

The Hero

I have previously written about Lord Arbuthnot, in regard to his role in championing the Post Office scandal victims:

Lord Arbuthnot – a Hero

Lord Arbuthnot was born under the sign of the Hero Archetype, Leo, with four planets in that sign.  He was a staunch supporter of the stricken postmasters for many years – I would say he acted as a rock, highlighting their case continually in parliament.  He took the fight first to the House of Commons, and then to the House of Lords.  His synastry with the Post Office shows his Mercury sextile the Post Office Chiron (an interest in its wound and healing); and his Pluto conjunct exactly with its Sun, showing his role in bringing it down.

Historical/more in-depth Examples:

The Performer

Mick Jagger (b. 26/7/43)

Still prancing at 82, Mick Jagger is the Archetypal Leo, with Sun/Jupiter/Pluto/Mercury/North Node and Chiron all crammed into Leo (most of them in his 2^nd House of Money).  As well as the Performer, he exemplifies another Archetype of Leo, namely The Lover (through Leo’s association with the 5^th House): he has been married several times, and has had multiple partners, among them Chrissie Shrimpton, Marianne Faithful, Marsha Hunt, Bianca Jagger, Jerry Hall, L-Wren Scott, and Melanie Hamrick.  With 8 children, five children and three great-grandchildren, he also fulfils The Patriarch Archetype (where Leo’s ruler the Sun represents the father, and Cancer’s ruler the Moon represents the mother).  A definition of a Patriarch is “the male head of a family or tribe.”

The Film Director

Alfred Hitchcock  (13/8/1899 – 29/4/1980)

With the Sun, Ascendant and Venus all in Leo, he has the credentials of the all-controlling classic Film Director Archetype.  Leo’s ruler the Sun was trine his North Node (karmic mission).  His macabre side comes from his Saturn exactly opposite Pluto.  And he had Uranus, Chiron, Saturn and the North Node in the 5^th House of Creativity and Drama, the natural province of Leo.

His North Node (karmic mission) was exactly conjunct the Galactic Centre in 5^th House – conferring extraordinary Power.  Leo anyway is a sign that represents Power, and power is represented by the 3^rd Chakra (the midriff section of the body).  In her book “Companions in Spirit” psychic Laeh Maggie Garfield offers a possible insight into Alfred Hitchcock’s notorious silhouette.  She says:

“Some people have an excess of third-chakra energy which they abuse by trying to control others.  The ‘bay windows’ of Alfred Hitchcock and Aristotle Onassis were bodily demonstrations of what happens when third-chakra power is projected in a coercive or manipulative way.”

Every sign or Archetype can have a shadow side.  Power can be mis-used, and in Alfred Hitchcock’s case it may have been, as testified by the actress Tippi Hedren, who starred in Hitchcock’s film “The Birds”.  She said:

“We are dealing with a brain here that is genius and evil. Deviant almost to the point of dangerous because of the effect that he can have on people that are totally unsuspecting.”

Hopefully, in his next life, he will learn to balance his power.

The Actress

Sandra Bullock (b. 26/7/64)

One of my favourite actresses, Sandra Bullock, has the Sun (and Mercury) in Leo.  Her films include The Proposal, Miss Congeniality, and Gravity.  Leo is the sign associated with the thespian profession, and drama.  The other sign associated with drama and acting, the more interior experience of sensitively conveying emotion, is Pisces.  Note that Sandra Bullock has the same birthday as Mick Jagger (26^th July); so often when I am picking these Archetypes there seem to be significant dates, which may be potent conveyors of the essence of the sign and archetypes.  It has happened too often to be mere coincidence.

An interesting feature of Sandra’s chart is that her Sun (Leo’s Ruler) is unaspected: hence it may indicate a more free-spirited expression of this expressive planet/star.  There is an echo of this in her Human Design Chart.  As detailed in the book “Human Design” by Chetan Parkyn:

“She…happens to be one of those rare beings whose Human Design is that of a Reflector, with no defined centres.”  The centres in her Human Design chart are empty.  He goes on to say: “She is naturally empathetic…and no doubt finds that she’s able to pick up everything about people: their habits, mannerisms, attitudes and moods.  This gift means that she is able to play out, reflect and perfect any role that a playwright or director asks of her.” This implies that she has the Neptunian component of the acting gene, too, and in her chart Neptune is the planet that occupies her 5^th House of acting.

With Venus/Mars on her Ascendant (opposite the Galactic Centre incidentally), she has been dubbed “the most beautiful woman” by People magazine (in 2015).  Her Midheaven (Careerpoint) is trine with her North Node (karmic mission), which makes it easier for her to fulfil her life purpose.

The Playwright

George Bernard Shaw (26/7/1856 – 2/11/1950)

Close to the thespian profession, playwrights also come under Leo Archetypes and careers.  George Bernard Shaw is regarded as one of Britain’s most prominent playwrights of the modern era.  His prominent works included Man and Superman, Pygmalion, and St. Joan.  Mars was trine his Ascendant, on the 5^th House cusp – prolific in creativity, in his case as a playwright.  He had the Sun closely conjunct Venus, and was also gifted artistically and musically.

Incredibly, this is the third, out of four examples, having the birthday of 26^th July.  It keeps happening, and I am sure there is a rhyme and reason to it.  Just realized that I wrote for Cancerian Archetypes last month:

“Notice that three of my specific examples were born around 6^th/7^th July, which gives them a connection of the very special Fixed Star Sirius, sacred to the ancient Egyptians, and our brightest nearest star.”

Perhaps it is the Fixed Star connection which makes certain dates stand out.  The nearest Fixed Star to the Sun’s position at 26^th July is Praesape (the M44 cluster in Cancer), which according to Michael Smulkis and Fred Rubenfeld in “Starlight Elixirs” represents:

“At a deeper level, most people will discover that a sense of what is needed created in them, as well as a sense of what is not needed.  Priorities can shift to spiritual levels, so the true God-nature of the priorities emerge.”

Looking back at the Archetype series of blogs, famous people just picked for their archetypes, I found 5 athletes born on 23^rd March.  Their Fixed Star is Diphda, in the constellation of Cetus, associated with 2^nd chakra energy.  I had two the same under Pisces (2^nd March): aligned with Scat in Aquarius (Rosa Parks was one, and the principle is about moving through red tape). And there were also two the same under Aquarius (4^th February): corresponding with Dorsum in Capricorn (one of whom was Mikhail Gorbachev), which may be politically linked.

 So, in summary, in contemplating your own link to the sign of Leo and for those you know, you can explore for the next month, this segment of the zodiac, while the Sun is still in Leo (until 22nd August).  You may notice that with your Leo family, friends and acquaintances, some of them have more than one of these Archetypes, and you may look up to them and admire them for it!  Notice too that some families have a particular sign as their theme, so perhaps they may be working on that theme in a common purpose in this incarnation as a soul group.

Aspects

Slim pickings this week…!

Monday 18^th brings a sextile between Mercury and Mars.  Physical and mental energies can co-ordinate well.  If you are cycling a great deal to keep fit, you may find the wind behind your sails.  You may be able to cycle just that bit faster or longer, and your fitbit may register record stats (if it is working properly).  You may also find shortcuts to your usual way of doing things.  Travel and active tasks can be brisk.

The Sun goes into Virgo on Friday (22^nd).  We may be starting to look at Autumn schedules, which are almost upon us.  The need for knuckling down conscientiously to look at work and study programmes is reinforced.  The Sun in Virgo will underline the need for a sense of focus and purpose.  Efficiency and Economy will be watchwords for how we organize the second half of our year.  There may be a new resolve to institute health and fitness regimes, and work rotas and practices.  You may be thinking ahead to September courses.

The week ends on a new beginning, that of a New Moon at 0 degrees Virgo, on Saturday (23^rd).  You may come to the end of a line of enquiry or a work project during the course of the week, ready for this New Moon, when new experiences can take place.  Aspirations around this New Moon in Virgo could be very work-orientated.  Ecology and the environment are also provinces of Virgo, so benefits could accrue for the planet if enough minds are concentrated on this aspect of life.

The week in bullet points:

• Monday – brisk action
• Friday – looking at working schedules
• Saturday – new beginning

Stella Rimington (1935 – 2025)

“I still thought the essence of the cold war and spies and stuff was fun.  You know, going around listening to people’s telephones and opening their mail.”

~ Stella Rimington

Stella Rimington, a former Director of MI5, and prolific crime novelist, died last Sunday, at the age of 90.  The security service was quite a distinguished glass ceiling for her to break.

Birth Chart

Stella had the Sun in Taurus, which straight away suggests a staunch individual acting as a rock in their sphere.  The Sun was trine her natal Moon in Virgo, also in Earth, adding an eye for detail.  She had 0 Fire planets in her chart, which may have given her the ability to be dispassionate, and even to keep a cool head.  There is clear evidence of the “Spy Archetype” with Pluto closely conjunct South Node in Cancer (likely carried over from past lives), and the Sun sextile Pluto shows a successful co-operation with the Police (= Pluto) as Director of MI5.  Leadership is shown by the Sun’s trine with the North Node, and is linked with her karmic mission.  The Moon also links with Pluto, by sextile.  Mercury trine Mars gave her quick mental reactions, but the most crucial aspect with mindset Mercury is an exact conjunction with Chiron, a conjunction I think of as the “Problem-Solver Archetype”.  This ideal conjunction for a Head of MI5 (and spy writer) is put under extreme pressure and stress by an exact square with Saturn, a measure of her strength and load of responsibility.  A further highly suitable aspect in her chart came in the shape of Jupiter trine Pluto, which indicates wise use of power.

Life and Career

Stella was born in South London, but her family moved to Essex during the Second World War as life had become very stressful:

“My childhood was disturbed and frightening. I was four when we left London as the Second World War broke out.  We lived in Barrow-in-Furness as the Barrow Blitz commenced: hiding under the stairs, windows were blown out and ceilings fell down.”

The family moved to Cumbria, before settling in Derbyshire, where Stella attended Nottingham High School for Girls.  She studied English at Edinburgh University, where she was fated to re-meet a friend from schooldays John Rimington, and they later married.  She went on to study Archive Administration at Liverpool University.

She married John in 1963, and in his career he was appointed as First Secretary for the British High Commission in New Delhi, so she travelled with him to India in September 1965.  Her transits for this transition were particularly interesting: Neptune on her natal Jupiter (foreign travel), and the North Node on her exact Chiron/Mercury conjunction in 10^th House – Wow! A karmically originated move if there was one.  It was directly to lead to her true career path.

While undertaking typing work in India, she was asked to assist one of the First Secretaries at the High Commission there, and he was revealed to be the representative in India of MI5.  She commented, in retrospect: “I was grateful for an end to the boredom.” When she returned to England she applied for permanent work in the institution.  From 1969, she went on to work in all three of its branches: counter espionage, counter subversion and counter terrorism.  She undertook a trip to Moscow in December 1991, making contact with the KGB.  Pluto was opposite her natal Sun at the time (a covert operation), and Uranus was trine her natal Neptune (an unusual step related to her undercover work).

In 1992, just after her return, she was appointed Director General of MI5, a position she held until 1996, the appointment being approved by John Major.  Aged 57, it may have been a representation of her second Saturn Return.

She was the first Director General to be openly named, and the first female to take the post.  As expressed in her later memoir, much to the consternation of their ranks, she described a great measure of sexism.  She also partook of some controversial recommendations during her time as head, for example speaking out against I.D. cards.

Relationships

Her elevated career position took its toll on her relationships.  The astrological pattern shows Venus loosely trine Saturn (loyal, committed, responsible in relationships) and Venus exactly sextile Uranus – (reunions, chance meetings, a search for excitement in relationships and some detachment).

One of her motives for writing her memoir according to the Guardian Obituary by Richard Norton Taylor was:

“She decided to write her memoir to explain to her daughters, Sophie and Harriet, why she was never around as a mother.  She separated from her husband when the children were young.”

In her marriage, there was a plot twist:

“Divorcing my husband seemed a faff.  We separated when our children were young, but the paperwork felt like an effort.  Now, I’m rather glad we didn’t.  We’ve become friendly again in old age, living together during lockdown.  Yes, we argued, but we’ve mellowed.  It’s a good recipe for marriage: split up, live separately, and return to it later.”

And on her relationship with her mother:

“I’ll always regret not being with my mother when she died.  I was away and failed to leave a contact number.  She died in hospital having fallen down the stairs: but I didn’t know until later.  We’d always been close.”

As a grandparent:

“My children would say I was quite detached as a mum.  We managed with au pairs, grannies and kind neighbours.  Still, I always tried to be caring and encouraging, and now – with my five grandchildren – I’m far more present.”

The Author

Her first literary venture was the Memoir “Open Secret”, which was considered a travesty by some, shedding light on that covert institution.  It is said that the character “M” in the Bond films, portrayed by Judi Dench, was based on Stella Rimington.

After the memoir, Stella then began a series of crime novels, based on two different intelligence officers Liz Carlyle (8 books) and Manon Tyler, a CIA agent (2 books), both alter egos of herself.

Her first novel was “At Risk”, with Liz Carlyle hunting down a terrorist cell.  A review in the Telegraph stated:

“At Risk is breezily told, seldom pompous, and the plot, though every bit as hokey as you’d expect, winds its threads together very entertainingly ”

My hubby has read several of her books, generously donated by Janet (a regular commenter here).  He tells me:

“The female character in her books is sympathetic to the plight of her ‘assets’ [fellow agents], suggesting this was how she interacted as the actual Head of MI5.  The stories involve you from the very start, you’re into the story very quickly. They are are well-written, similar to Ken Follett’s page turners [which include spy novels].  She’s a good descriptive writer.

Death

She apparently died on Sunday night surrounded by her family and dogs and it is reported that she “determinedly held on to the life she loved until her last breath”.

With a transit of Jupiter sextile her natal Neptune, she will have passed peacefully to her spiritual state.  A remarkable woman, whose life was clearly mapped out for greatness, with the resilience that was needed for her mission.

“I’ve never been one to retreat at the first whiff of gunshot.”

~ Stella Rimington

Aspects

Today’s aspect is Mars trine Pluto, a dynamic aspect which nevertheless needs to be handled with care.  There may be some upheaval involved, as when you are decluttering in earnest, but you should have the energy to start afresh once you have cleared some old ground.  This aspect speaks of self-empowerment, but you have to remember that everyone also has this force!  This is a great aspect for tasks which need great energy, and should be of benefit to you throughout the day.

Good news for Mercury-Retrogradophobes, for tomorrow (Monday 11^th) Mercury is Stationary prior to going Direct! I have heard several complaints these last three weeks, and I currently have a tech issue going on myself.  There can be some alleviation of recent communication glitches.  There may also be a turning point in your travel plans. Hopefully, if you have projects waiting to happen of a literary or technical nature, this may also be a go-ahead for you.  If you have been holding back on communication, you may feel the push to move forward again with it.

Tuesday (12^th) is a progressive day.  The early hours of the morning bring a sextile between two heavyweights: Saturn and Uranus.  You may have contemplated the changes of the early days of Neptune in Aries, and have a chance now to balance (sextile) the old (Saturn in Aries) with the new (Uranus in Gemini).  It’s a major aspect and enables stabilization.  This is a time when you can do something for yourself which is constructive.  You may have a joint venture with someone which is new and innovative, but need a steadying force.  Make no mistake, this is the most important aspect of the week.

And make no mistake either, this is the best day of the week, for Venus is conjunct Jupiter (at 14 degrees Cancer).  At the same time, it is one of the best days of the year, socially and romantically.  It is a great conjunction for getting out and socializing, but also for practising Unconditional Love.  This conjunction is aligned with the Fixed Star Sirius, giving the day an extra boost.

“Starlight Elixirs” by Michael Smulkis and Fred Rubenfeld tells us:

“Sirius can enhance communication between the subtle bodies. This is that which normally goes on under healthy conditions for most people and is generally cut off between certain of the subtle bodies when there is disease or difficulty.   Communication will be enhanced between the physical and aetheric bodies, and to a lesser extent between the aetheric and emotional bodies.  This will be of great benefit for anyone who is working with healing.”

From Tuesday we skip to Friday (15^th) for the next aspect, which is Mercury sextile Mars.  This may bring about brisk action.  You may receive ideas to implement into your day.  Your mental reactions may be heightened, and this can lead to enhanced productivity.  Stella Rimington had Mercury trine Mars, conferring mental vigour, you may avail yourself of a little of that, with this aspect.

The week in bullet points:

• Today – a powerhouse of energy
• Tomorrow – straightening communications
• Tuesday – *best day of the week: successfully combining or balancing the old and the new; socializing to the max
• Friday – mental vigour; brisk action