Autumn Equinox Poem
poem and original art by Dikki-Jo Mullen
Bright leaves from green and pale in spring
To the fire of golden autumn
Then by winter a garb of brown in sad repentance fling
Little time measured short and bright
brief hours, bright colors
Then so soon the growing night
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Autumn Ingress Horoscope
A Message for September 22 -December 21, 2016
A Special Seasonal Highlight Is Brought By The Rare Black Moon on September 30, 2016
By Dikki-Jo Mullen, Astrologer
Summer’s final hours are here. The sunset is grey and yellow, blending the departing summer shadows with the hues of early autumn. It is the perfect time to study the autumn ingress chart to see what it promises for the times to come. An ingress chart is a predictive horoscope calculated for the solstices and equinoxes through the year. This kind of event chart can describe what the four seasons bring. The fall (named for the falling leaves as well as the falling of earlier darkness as the autumnal equinox arrives) occurs at 10:22 am EDT, On September 22, 2016. The horoscope cast for this time reveals universal trends and the worldwide events which will set the pace until the winter solstice on December 21, 2016.
Here is a list of the astrological placements at the autumn equinox, 2016
Sun- Libra
Moon- Gemini
Mercury – Virgo
Venus – Libra
Mars- Sagittarius
Jupiter- Libra
Saturn – Sagittarius
Uranus – Aries R (retrograde)
Neptune – Pisces R
Pluto – Capricorn R
Moon Nodes – North in Virgo and South in Pisces
Chiron – Pisces R
The equinox chart shows the Sun at 0 degrees Libra 00’ applying to a conjunction with Jupiter at 2 degrees of Libra, sign of the celestial scales. This powerful Libra conjunction indicates that justice will be a focus. Grievances about various unsatisfactory issues can be expressed in commentary and protest. The Moon in Gemini opposes the midpoint of the Saturn-Mars conjunction in Sagittarius. This stimulates the expression of opposing ideas. New attitudes about education can be a part of this. Concerns about the welfare of animals, both domestic and wild creatures, can be voiced. Mercury completes its retrograde at 1:31 am EDT, when it turns direct at 14 degrees 50’of Virgo. Mercury makes a close mutually applying trine to retrograde Pluto at 14 degrees Capricorn 55’. This brings hidden issues to light. There can also be advances in health care. Some of those searching for work can find better economic opportunities. The definition of what constitutes desirable wealth can be revamped. Financial structures are in transformation somehow. Saturn at 11 degrees Sagittarius is almost perfectly square Neptune at 10 degrees of Pisces. The Moon’s South node is at 11 degrees of Pisces, conjunct Neptune. This all shows the potential for extreme weather. Heavy snow and rainfall is likely as well as storms around water. Sink holes or seismic activity can bring a few surprises.
Venus is in its own ruling sign of Libra separating from a favorable sextile to Mars in Sagittarius. This brings some memorable events linked to sports. New records can be set in games. The Venus in Libra influence also favorably impacts arts. Creative designs, fashions and decorating trends can be a source of joy and inspiration. Romantic and nostalgic themes can appeal. Uranus in Aries forms a wide orb cardinal T-Square with Pluto in Capricorn and Venus in Libra. Patience is in short supply and there can be unpredictable behaviors in social situations. Air rage, road rage and general disorderly conduct might have to be addressed. Chiron and Neptune in Pisces promises genuine psychic experiences and knowledge of other dimensions. Many can experience intuitive dreams and encounters with spirit guides as Halloween nears.
September 30, 2016 brings a rare Black Moon at the New Moon in Libra. This is the second New Moon within a single calendar month as the Virgo eclipse back on September 1 was also a New Moon. The Black Moon is in the first decanate of Libra and so it has a double Venus rulership. This accents star crossed romantic love and an appreciation of beauty and refinements. Sweets are ruled by Venus and this Black Moon, which is conjunct Jupiter in Libra, will find many enjoying desserts. Prepare pastry, candy and ice cream treats if entertaining. The Sabian Symbol for the Black Moon degree reads “Three Old Masters Hanging In An Art Gallery. Appreciation of heritage, the three fold aspects of the soul and the trinity are illustrated in this symbol. The Black Moon is thought to belong to the fey ones, the faeries, elves, leprechauns, pixies and other nature spirits. Magical beings can peer through a portal offering a glimpse of other realms, too beautiful not to be real on some level. Dream work and deep meditations can offer insights. At this first New Moon of autumn decorate an altar with ribbons, burn a black candle, play classical music. Rose quartz is a crystal which would enhance the good potentials of the lunation while aroma-therapy blends of lime and cocoanut would attune nicely to the energies stirring now. The Black Moon at 8 degrees of Libra is quite near the fixed star Vindemiatrix. This translates “the gatherer of grapes”. It is linked with Ampelos, the son of a nymph and satyr. Ampelos was placed among the stars as a memorial tribute from Bacchus after being injured during revelry. This yellow star rises in the morning near the time the vintage is harvested. It brings a message of the need to control impulses and to keep caring for the health of the mind and body.
Autumn’s first Full Moon will be in Aries on October 16, 2016. As the October Moon rises sip a cup of peppermint tea, an herb ruled by Aries. Called the aspirin of the herb world, peppermint relieves headaches and depression as well as soothing overall aches and pains. One of several names associated with this October lunation is “The Flying Ducks Moon”, reflecting the migration of birds ahead of the cold winter season. Use the metaphor in our own lives, think of moving forward, leaving behind the past for a brighter, more beautiful climate of change.
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Astrology and Halloween Themes
By Dikki-Jo Mullen
Halloween! After Christmas, it has become the biggest and most anticipated of holidays. The quest for the perfect costume has become all consuming as we seek a foray, an escape, into a world of magic. Halloween opens another dimension it is alluring, too beautiful and terrible not to be real on some level. Your horoscope can help to deepen the delight. Consider the suggestions for your familiar Sun sign, the birth sign we all know, then look at your Moon, ascendant (rising) sign and also consider your Venus, the placement which describes fun and enjoyable situations.
Aries
Adventure is the word for you. Think of a hobo, safari outfit, a robed hooded hermit with a walking staff, an Alpine hiker or a Steampunker balloon pilot.
Taurus
Mystery is your thing. A private investigator, character from a detective novel such as Sherlock Holmes, or a Mata Hari femme fatale spy are possibilities.
Gemini
The charm and freedom of the Old West provides a variety of ideas. The Lone Ranger, Native American or gambler or dance hall heart throb are a few to think of.
Cancer
Nostalgia and vintage finds will help you assemble your look. Think of the 1920’s -1950’s, Roaring 20’s through Happy Days. A hand made apron or World War II era radio days suit, hat and gloves would be perfect. A gypsy, draped in beads and colorful skirts, shawls and scarves would be another great selection.
Leo
Love and childhood are some appealing themes for you. How about Little Bo Peep, Red Riding Hood, The Wizard of Oz, Cupid or the King and Queen of Hearts?
Virgo
Reread your mythology. A classical God or Goddess, complete with a toga could work well. A zombie figure, accident victim or adventure hero/heroine point to other options.
Libra
You are in the mood for some glitz and glitter. Collect decorative coins and faux gems, fashion a vest and shoes suggesting a screen star of yester year or go for a futuristic alien look. A cheerful pumpkin or scarecrow look is another very different theme you might consider.
Scorpio
A jester/joker look would be perfect. Look at traditional portrayals of court jesters and fools to design a multi colored motley costume. A clown, with your true face masked in artistic make up, a two faced figure like the comedy and tragedy masks or Janus, a deity with two faces, provides other suitable ideas.
Sagittarius
The role of being a rescuer or source of inspiration attracts you. Think of being a romantic hero or heroine. How about Casanova, Romeo, Cinderella, Juliet , Snow White or Prince Charming?
Capricorn
The battle of life is a prominent theme now. Think of a Civil War or Revolutionary War soldier in full regalia, a political candidate complete with a life like latex mask, Scottish Kilt outfit , Wonder Woman or Superman.
Aquarius
A ghost, mad scientist, crazy eccentric, 1960’s era hippie, pilot or space traveler costume would help you plan an enjoyable Halloween. You appreciate the offbeat and otherworldly.
Pisces
Magical elementals and fantasy figures such as wizards, goblins, mermaids, gnomes, brownies, trolls, faeries are excellent. Also sea farers’ costumes such as pirates and sailors would be suitable choices.
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Halloween Witchery For Astrologers
Fire, Earth, Air, and Water – How To Untap The Zodiac’s Secrets of Witchery In Your Horoscope!
By Dikki-Jo Mullen
Standing in line in the bright Florida sunlight one day in early summer while waiting to purchase a ticket for Universal Studios, the conversations which could be overheard were most revealing. It would seem that all that is misty, gothic and reminiscent of the world of witches would be galaxies removed from the thoughts expressed by the crowds of tourists. But not so!
Young and old alike were all most enthusiastic about visiting the Harry Potter attraction at the famous theme park. For the visitors who travel to my home town of Orlando, Florida from all over the world, the focus was all about witchcraft and wizardry.
Harry Potter has revived and updated the mystique of the witch certainly, but the appeal of these supernatural and powerful beings is timeless, as evidenced by other classical witch tales. The witches in The Wizard of Oz and the three sisters who open Shakespeare’s Macbeth are a couple of examples. Whether hideous and ugly or angelically lovely the witch fascinates, attracts and intrigues us. The witch (and her male complement, the wizard) evoke deep reactions of envy combined with wonder, desire and maybe a chill of fear. Identified with potent forces and freedom as ancient and primal as the origin of life itself these spellbinder archetypes enjoy a peak season at Halloween each year. October 31st, the Old Celtic New Year, aligns with the first decanate of the astrological sign of Scorpio, with a double Mars and Pluto rulership. Most years this is 7-8 degrees of the sign. Its Sabian Symbol reads “The Moon Shining Across a Lake”. This suggests illumination of an inner nature and the beauty of nocturnal mysteries. The Moon, ruler of the subconscious, and a mythological guardian of the night, has a deep affinity with the practice of witchcraft. The ubiquitous Halloween witch flying, silhouetted with her broom, is completed by a Full Moon in the background.
She seems to be greeting the death of the summer past while a cold wind blows. The promise of a deeper darkness is building. Perhaps we secretly wish to be like her flying freely through the night unencumbered and able to heal or hex at will. The practice of wizardry and witchcraft addresses the possibility of inhabiting a different world which some entwines with our familiar one. Remnants of early, primal belief systems which fulfill the human yearning for a deeper connection with something beyond everyday reality are expressed through the image of the witch. Depth of feeling, euphoria, a deeper joy and hope, a greater aliveness are easier to believe in upon meeting the witch.
In the practice of Wicca, as the Old Religion of Witchcraft is sometimes called by practitioners, four elements, fire, earth, air and water figure prominently. Astrologers see the same four elements as important divisions in the energies expressed by the twelve zodiac signs. The four primary tools used in the practice of witchcraft are also identified with the same elements. These energies, elemental, raw and basic, work interchangeably within astrology and witchcraft.
To awaken and attune to your own inner magic this Halloween begin to focus on the element group of your familiar Sun sign. For further insight consider the other elements and how they reflect your Moon sign, ascendant and other important placements. Witchcraft is intuitive and personal, so the expression of instincts and emotions plays an important role in relating to your own birth chart in this way.
Fire
The symbol is an upright triangle
The Wand or Broomstick is the Craft Tool of Fire Aries, Leo and Sagittarius are the Fire Signs of the Zodiac
Begin to awaken a sense of witchery with incense, candle burning, sacred lights and fires. Select several candles and observe how the release of heat, light color affects you and your surroundings. Pink promises love, while red is more passionate and competitive. Green favors nature and prosperity, white assure innocence and sweeping away cobwebs. Yellow generates mental clarity while orange enhances friendship and cheer. Brown is grounding and practical. Purple is the color of psychic energy and conjuring the spirit world, while grey will balance positive and negative polarities. If there is any concern about one’s image or reputation three grey or silver candles will halt slander. The wand is used to extend power and direct efforts toward a desired goal.
Water
The symbol is an inverted triangle
The Cauldron or Cup is the Craft Tool of Water.
Cancer, Scorpio and Pisces are the Water Signs of the Zodiac
The recording and interpreting of dreams, reverie and visions, perhaps while enjoying a fragrant bath, a stroll along the beach or walking among the autumn leaves while contemplating gathering storm clouds can awaken your inner potential magic. A crystal ball or bowl of water used as a meditation focus can magnify intuition and insight. Review the phases of the Moon and how they affect the flow of daily life. Remember how the Moon affects the ocean’s tides. The human body is mostly water and chemically is much like the ocean. How does this affect your inner power tides? The cup or cauldron is used to brew herbs, healing soups, potions and holy waters. Sacred wells, such as the Chalice Well in Glastonbury England, have a link with the sacred water tradition.
Earth
The symbol is an inverted triangle with a crossbar over the point.
The Stone or Pentacle is the Craft Tool of Earth. Taurus, Virgo and Capricorn are the Earth Signs of the Zodiac
Sacred stones and crystals are important in magical workings. They draw upon the natural energies of the Earth. Gemstone amulets, often fashioned from birth stones, will find a place in the wardrobe or upon the altar of those who practice witchcraft. A crystal tucked into a pillow to stimulate psychic dreams or a pendulum held to seek guidance and direction are ways the Earth energies might be added to rituals. The pentagram, a five pointed star with the single point facing upward has long been a popular choice to represent the element earth among practitioners. When made of wood or metal, the pentagram is called a pentacle and represents a human figure with its hands outstretched at the center of the universe. The celestial currents of the life force illustrated by five pointed stars in many places on Earth. Flower petals and star fish are examples. In slicing an apple a natural pentagram can be observed, formed by the seeds in the core. Perhaps that is one reason why apple dishes are especially popular at Halloween and apples are incorporated into many legends of witchcraft.
Air
The symbol is an upright triangle with a cross bar.
The Sword or Blade is the Craft tool of Air.
Gemini, Libra and Aquarius are the Air Signs of the Zodiac
Blades and swords figure prominently in the practice of witchcraft as symbols of discrimination. They are used to cut through illusions and reveal the truth. The quest for knowledge and the freedom it brings in overcoming ignorance is suggested. The metaphor of the sword is also recognized in the sharp stirring of the wind. Vital to the continuity of life, the intake of air circulates through the mind and body. Air clears the mind and lifts the spirits as it sharpens the intellect. The Tarot Cards, which incorporate the tools of the craft in the four suits of Wands, Cups, Pentacles and Swords, are commonly used as both a focus for magical workings and a source of knowledge by practitioners.
The four elements which are a focus in astrology and witchcraft alike have four principles attached to them. These are the cornerstones of the practice of constructive and healing magic, which is the only type we advocate of course. The principles are “To Dare“, “To Have Faith“, “To Keep Silent” and “To Know”.
The first one, “To Dare”, draws upon the element Fire. Fiery energy provides the vitality, the motivation, initiative, confidence and courage to reach for goals and make desired changes in the status quo. The practice of witchcraft is dedicated to the ideal that the conscious direction of natural forces has the ability to direct and modify reality. The second principle, “To Have Faith” links to Water. Unwavering faith suggests the force of belief and power generated by deep feelings. Water has been called the strongest of the elements. It overcomes all of the others. Belief, driven by the power of emotion and love, is most essential for the successful materialization of magical workings. “To Keep Silent” reflects the Earth powers. Perhaps one point of importance here is a reminder from earlier times when the safety of witches was a concern. An indiscretion back then could have led to persecution by hostile outsiders. However the message of the Earth principle is deeper than that. Talking about a project dissipates its effectiveness and lessens its chances of reaching a successful ending. Keeping quiet about goals and projects until they are attained is an important part of real magic. Think of how seeds need time to rest and mature while planted and buried quietly in the ground until they are ready to germinate. Often authors won’t speak about a book until it is ready to be published as talking about it can jinx its success. Finally the principle “To Know” has a tie with the influence of the Air signs. Knowledge and information is essential to making the right choices. Education, whether acquired in a formal learning situation or through personal study, is valuable. Knowledge enables the witch in deciding what is worthwhile and how best to survive and cope with changes and challenges. Natural intellect refined by the gathering of facts combines in manifesting this final principle. It illustrates how best to direct valuable time and effort.
The cycles of the Sun, Moon and planets familiar to astrologers are also incorporated into the practice of witchcraft in a variety of ways. The seasons of the year are honored by eight major holidays, called sabbats. These draw upon the magic of the calendar, the yearly solar cycle. The spring equinox, often called Ostara, honors rebirth while bidding farewell to the previous cycle. It correlates with the start of the sign of Aries when the Sun crosses the Aries-Pisces cusp. This is Ostara, or Easter and it heralds the beginning of the zodiac, near March 21. Next comes Beltane or May Day, celebrated under the sign of Taurus. Observed on or near May 1, May Day is a growth and fertility sabbat. The summer solstice, also called Midsummer‘s Day, comes next. Celebrated near June 21, it is the longest day of the year on the Gemini-Cancer cusp. Midsummer’s Day ushers in the peak of the growing season and illuminates the brightest of potentials. Lammas, or August eve, is next. Celebrated near August 1 in the sign of Leo, it is a time for appreciating the year’s early harvest. Lammas comes from a word meaning loaf-mass and honors the breads and grains which provide the staff and continuity of life. The autumnal equinox, also called Mabon, follows. This is when the day and night are nearly equal again, on the cusp of Virgo and Libra, near September 23rd. The year is half way through. The past and future meet, it’s a time to reflect upon what has gone before and to prepare for the times ahead. The beauties of autumn and seasonal changes which reflect the entire human experience are suggested by the beginning of autumn. Halloween, also called Samhain, which means “summer’s end” comes next. Celebrated during the time of Scorpio on October 31, it correlates with the Celtic New Year and reflects the early pagan beliefs in the power of this time. The dead are honored, the growing darkness is embraced, the time when the weather changes are greatest is about to begin, suggesting extremes and new dimensions afoot. The winter solstice, also called Yuletide comes next. Celebrated on the Sagittarius-Capricorn cusp on the longest night of the year, Yule correlates with the winter holiday season. It’s a time of hope and encouragement, of honoring faith in the eternal turning of the natural wheel. Yule, which comes from a word meaning wheel, brings reminders of the cycles of the seasons which bring order and direction to life itself. Finally comes the last of the eight holidays in the witches’ year, Candlemas or Imbolc. It’s celebrated on or near February 2, under the sign of Aquarius. Candlemas brings the first glimmer of the spring ahead. The cold, dark days of deep winter are waning. Its name suggests the candles which are lit at this time to welcome the gradual return of the Sun. The name Imbolc translates ewe’s or sheep’s milk. This honors the birth of a new generation of lambs and other creatures.
The zodiac familiar to astrologers is observed in the practice of witchcraft as the turning of a wheel of life and the natural forces which propel it, ready to be directed and harnessed for healing and goodness. It has been said that a feminine force, called The Lady, oversees the spring and summer signs. The autumn and winter signs are often viewed as masculine, indicating the mysteries of death and harvest. Some practitioners have a different opinion, seeing the Sun, which is reborn at the winter solstice, ushering in a divine mother energy which builds in ecstasy and passion until the summer solstice when the harvest is in view. The Sun or divine son then sacrifices himself at Lammas to protect and provide for a new birth to come.
The monthly Full and New Moons are called esbats, from a French word which means “to frolic”. The lunations are regularly observed by many who follow the path of Wicca. Each one is given a name and assigned a particular quality, these mirror the meanings used by astrologers in interpreting the Moon‘s signs and phases in horoscopes. The Full and New Moons mark times to nurture or diminish as well as times to honor and observe the various spiritual energies which are active each month. Rituals conducted then enable the witch to make the best use of the celestial power tides. For example at a Full Moon, when the energy reaches a culmination, dream work can be undertaken or a ritual to lose weight might be arranged. At the New Moon a prosperity spell to draw increase income and opportunity can be started. Often a wish list is written on the day of the New Moon and witches will delight in watching the wishes materialize as the Moon waxes toward the Full phase two weeks later.
If you would like to attempt a simple spell yourself, merely check the New Moon, as shown in the Daily Moon Calendar in The Witches’ Almanac write your wish list just as takes place. Keep in mind the four principles, “To Dare“, “To Have Faith“, “To Keep Silent” and “To Know”, while writing the list. Be careful what you wish for, it is very likely that at least some of it will come to pass.
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Harper Lee – “To Kill a Mocking Bird”
Horoscope For The Author of America’s Iconic Coming of Age Story
By Dikki-Jo Mullen
“When you have a hit like that, you can’t go anywhere but down”, author Harper Lee would often joke, when asked why she never wrote again after the 1960 publication of “To Kill a Mocking Bird”. One commentator compared this hiatus to what would have happened if Mark Twain had written only “Huckleberry Finn” or Shakespeare penned only “MacBeth”.
The theme of “To Kill A Mocking Bird” revolves around race relations and injustice in the American South, a topic which touched the pulse of the public consciousness deeply enough to win Harper Lee a Pulitzer Prize in 1961. The following year her book became an Oscar winning classic film starring Gregory Peck. Eventually Harper Lee would go on to be appointed to the National Council for The Arts by President Lyndon B. Johnson in 1966, at the peak of the Civil Rights movement. Later she was awarded the Medal of Freedom (the Nation’s highest civilian honor) by President George W. Bush. In 2015, at age 89, Lee was greeted at The White House yet again by President Barack Obama. This was after, at long last, she did release her second novel “Go Set A Watchman”, which is believed to be either a prequel or first draft of her iconic first book.
Nelle Harper Lee was born on April 28, 1926 at 5:25 pm in Monroeville, Alabama. Her ascendant, at 25 degrees of Libra, is within orb of a conjunction with Spica, the most fortunate fixed star in the heavens. She did enjoy a charmed life in many ways. Her net worth at the time of her death, in the early morning hours of February 19, 2016 in Monroeville, Alabama, is estimated to be about 35 million dollars. The Libra ascendant, the sign of The Scales, is often prominent in the horoscopes of those who champion the cause of justice. Her Sun at 7 degrees of Taurus and Chiron at 28 degrees of Aries form an out of sign conjunction in her 7th house. This further emphasizes a focus on the law and exploring the balance of interactions between people. She first studied law, then abandoned it, deciding instead that journalism was her real love.
Harper Lee, as she preferred to called throughout her life, was born at the Full Moon, with the Moon and Saturn conjunct in Scorpio in her 1st house. This reveals a serious and intense personality with a tendency to cherish her privacy. The Full Moon personality is always very responsive to the environment and tends to drive projects forward to conclusions. As a young college student at Huntington College, The University of Alabama and later at Oxford University in England, Harper shunned parties and fashion, preferring to wear plain clothing and dedicate her efforts to study. Her Scorpio Moon is in mutual reception with Pluto in Cancer in her 9th house. Pluto also conjoins the North Moon Node. This astrological pattern shows an affinity for the travel industry as well as excelling in academics. She worked for a time during the 1950’s as a reservation agent for Eastern Airlines. Eventually she quit that job to become an impoverished writer in New York City. Living in a cold water flat with cast off furniture, she attracted the help of friends who supported her for a year while she wrote. She also collaborated with another prominent Southern writer and childhood friend, Truman Capote. Harper Lee’s Mars-Jupiter conjunction in Aquarius points to her eclectic connections with and the key support of helpful associates. The Mars-Jupiter conjunction, which has been called the presidents’ aspect, tends to bring a memorable personality and an ability to impact others. The Aquarius planets square her natal Saturn, reveals great ambition and energy. Mars and Jupiter are in her 4th house, accenting the lasting ties to childhood home and parents. Throughout her life she divided her time between New York City, where she could live a private and anonymous life style and home town Monroeville, Alabama.
The strong 4th house conjunction and prominent Moon describe how her writing drew inspiration from her childhood. Harper Lee was the youngest of four children of a prominent local lawyer, Amasa Coleman Lee and homemaker Frances Cunningham Finch. The names and initials of her beloved parents are reflected in one of her main characters, attorney Attiucus Finch, a hint that “To Kill A Mockingbird” and recent second novel “Go Set A Watchman” are both actually autobiographical. Her Jupiter is accidentally exalted in the 4th house, pointing to the supportive influence of her childhood home and parentage. Uranus in the 4th shows the progressive and humanitarian values learned in her early home life.
Neptune in Leo in her 10th house forms an angular T- square with the Scorpio and Aquarius placements. This powerful Neptune placement propelled Harper Lee to an elusive yet flamboyant celebrity and prominence. Neptune traditionally is linked with justice for minorities and the disadvantaged, the theme of Harper Lee’s books. The empty leg of this strong angular fixed sign T- square is directed toward the natal 7th house, again emphasizing justice, social issues and relationships. Neptune forms a wide orb but mutually applying trine with her Mercury, the writers’ planet, in Aries, showing the originality, sensitivity and intuition expressed in her writing. Her subject matter is argumentative with much of the pioneer and revolutionary spirit typical of natal Mercury in Aries.
Harper Lee’s 2nd house of earned income is ruled by Pluto. The source and accumulation of her considerable wealth can be seen in the 9th house placement of her natal Pluto which forms a grand trine in water signs with her Venus-Uranus Conjunction in Pisces and her Moon-Saturn conjunction in Scorpio. Her Taurus Sun, which is in an applying sextile aspect to natal Pluto, further underscores her ability to acquire and guard financial assets.
The Venus-Uranus conjunction in the 5th house of romance also brings speculation about her romantic inclinations. She never married and always refused to answer any questions about personal relationships. The strong Uranus might indicate that a desire for freedom plays a role in her independent life style.
Taurus and Pisces placements often show an appreciation for music. As a student Harper sang in the school Glee Club, as an adult she is said to have had a preference for 18th Century music. Aside from her family, cats were also her constant companions and great love. The strong natal water sign influence as well as Mercury in her 6th house can describe the deep affection for small animals. Sentimental Cancer spans much of her 9th house, with the Moon there, by mutual reception, with Pluto. This points to another important interest Harper Lee was reputed to enjoy; the history and literature of the 19th Century.
The various transits and progressions to Harper Lee’s natal chart are intriguing in the way they reflect the stages in her career and accomplishments. As a young teen Uranus in Taurus transited her Sun, showing unexpected influences and challenges generated by people and situations she encountered. This transit peaked in 1940 – early 41 when she was about 14. Saturn in Taurus at that time also opposed its natal place.
From 1944-49, when she pursued her higher education and changed goals, transit Neptune in early Libra was oppose her natal Mercury. This coincided with the dissolving and refocusing of her interest away from law and toward journalism. During this time transit Saturn affected her 9th house, showing her efforts with academic work, including overseas travel to study in England. She struggled with poverty during the early 1950’s when Pluto, ruler of her 2nd house, transited Leo. This activated her 10th house of career and challenging angular natal T-square. Her Saturn return in Scorpio in 1955 seems to have been an especially bleak and challenging time. The Saturn return activated her natal Saturn-Moon conjunction, an aspect with the potential for depression and sadness. Her father suddenly became ill and passed away, an tragic event which had a tremendous emotional impact on Harper.
In 1957 a first submission of “To Kill A Mocking Bird” was rejected, with the criticism that it read like a collection of short stories. At that time Saturn was transiting Sagittarius, trine to both her natal Mercury in Aries and Neptune in Leo. Determined, Taurus-like, Harper rewrote the manuscript. While this was happening transit Jupiter in Scorpio conjoined her natal Saturn. Often a transit of Jupiter to conjoin natal Saturn (or vice versa) will indicate the start of an important career opportunity. The rewrite was completed by 1960. At that time Uranus was in Leo, again activating Harper’s natal fire sign placements. Success was instantaneous by the end of the year when transit Jupiter in Capricorn was trine her natal Sun in Taurus. In 1961 she won The Pulitzer Prize when Jupiter entered Aquarius. The Jupiter transit was both trine her Libra ascendant and conjunct to her natal Jupiter-Uranus conjunction. By 1962 her novel was translated into at least ten languages and developed into a screen play when it won an Oscar. Neptune was transiting Scorpio, activating her natal grand trine in water signs, while transit Uranus in Leo was conjunct her Neptune in her 10th house of fame and fortune. During the 1960’s Harper Lee began to shun publicity. At the time of her 1966 appointment by President Johnson to the National Council for the Arts transit Uranus was in Virgo, oppose its natal place in Pisces. This opposition, which typically occurs during the early 40’s or so, can mark a break with established situations, jobs or relationships. Harper began to become more and more reclusive. She came into the public eye only occasionally when the importance of her book was acknowledged.
On April 29, 2014, just a day from Harper’s 88th birthday, there was a solar eclipse conjunct her natal Sun. At that time transit Uranus in Aries was separating from a conjunction to her natal Mercury. This foreshadowed some changes in the status quo. It is possible that, fueled by current news coverage of racial situations again, Harper Lee began to prepare her second manuscript for publication then. On July 14, 2015, following weeks of speculation, worldwide attention was again focused on Harper Lee. Her new book “Go Set A Watchman”, was released. Once again she explored the themes of Southern life and race relations. Was the timing linked to the growing racial tensions around the United States? Or did Harper, who appeared erudite and well for her 89 years sense that it was now or never and that her own time of passing was near?
On July 14, 2015 the transiting Sun, Mercury and Mars were in Cancer activating her five natal water sign placements in her 9th house. The eclipses in the spring of 2015 further reflected the surprises and changes in Harper’s life. The solar eclipse on March 20, 2015 at 29 degrees of Pisces was close to her natal Uranus at 27 and not very far from her natal Venus at 21 degrees of Pisces. The lunar eclipse at 14 degrees of Libra on April 4, 2015 was accompanied by a stellium of Aries transits (with the Sun, Uranus and Mercury), all forming powerful cardinal sign aspects to her natal Mercury in Aries. In true Uranian fashion the excitement generated by the new book has been short lived, though. Perhaps Harper had been wise in not trying to expand upon her initial success after all.
Harper Lee passed away peacefully in her sleep during the early morning hours of February 19, 2016 at an assisted living facility in her hometown of Monroeville. At the time of her death transit Mars was at 23 degrees of Scorpio, exactly conjunct her natal Saturn, the Moon was in Cancer and transit Neptune was sextile her natal Sun. The aspects suggest a time of completion honoring an intriguing life well lived.
Data – Birth Data Table
Tropical Placidus Houses
Nelle Harper Lee
Born on April 28, 1926 at 5:25 pm CST in Monroeville, Alabama 31N31’40” : 87W19’29”
Sun 07 Taurus 54 – 7th house
Moon 19 Scorpio 33 – 1st house – Full Moon
Mercury 10 Aries 59 – 6th house
Venus 21 Pisces 57 – 5th house
Mars 26 Aquarius 34 – 4th house
Jupiter 23 Aquarius 39 – 4th house
Saturn 23 Scorpio 54 – 1st house (retrograde)
Uranus 27 Pisces 44 – 5th house
Neptune 21 Leo 59 – 10th house (retrograde)
Pluto 12 Cancer 47- 9th house
Chiron 28 Aries 29 – 7th house
N. Moon Node (true node) – 18 Cancer 57 – 9th house
Ascendant (rising sign) is 25 Libra 47
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Dikki-Jo Mullen
Astrologer and Parapsychologist https://dikkijomullen.wordpress.com
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A Florida Hurricane Poem
By Dikki-Jo Mullen
Veiled the sky, just one cloud,
No shadows of trees or even birds,
The Wind hides in the trees,
Silent yet not.
Disturbed, yet feeling a deep joy,
Nature holds a vital delight.
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Gene Wilder
Astrological Tribute To A Comedic Genius
By Dikki-Jo Mullen, Astrologer
With his trademark irony and manic energy, Gene Wilder created gentle and amusing characters that will live on in our hearts and minds. Late August of 2016 finds the sad news of his death circling the globe. Born Jerome Silberman on June 11, 1933 at 3:50 am CST in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the actor adopted Gene Wilder as his stage name when his career began in the early 1960’s on the television program Armstrong Circle. He would go on to act in many films, Young Frankenstein and Wille Wonka and The Chocolate Factory being two memorable favorites. He was a double Gemini, with a first house Sun and ascendant in Gemini. His characters combined a quiet irony with a kind of manic quality, showing the true duality of his birth sign. Born with Mercury and Venus conjunct in Cancer, he had an artistry spanning all kinds of communication. Wilder was a gifted writer as well as actor. His Pluto in Cancer was square Uranus in Aries, the 2nd and 11th houses were activated by this powerful pattern. Satirizing political issues and values were favorite recurrent themes in his work. The Moon and Saturn in Aquarius in his 9th house, reveal a strong social consciousness and humanitarian qualities as well originality. Health and fitness were always significant issues, perhaps because of his Virgo stellium involving Neptune, Jupiter and Mars. The Mars- Jupiter conjunction has been called “The President’s aspect”, it gives great personality and a warm charisma. Also Mars and Neptune conjunct have been called the “Lamp of Aladdin or “White Witchcraft” aspect. This conjunction brings a natural ability to manifest, to make things happen.
When Wilder’s beloved third wife, Gilda Radner, was diagnosed with ovarian cancer they founded Gilda’s Club together. This group continues as a reminder to those fighting cancer that they need not have to face the nightmare alone. Wilder continued charitable work throughout the remainder of his life, being true to his strong Aquarius and 11th house influences. He kept his own diagnosis of Alzheimer’s a secret for years, as he said he couldn’t bear the thought of being responsible for the fading of even one more smile in the world. Complications from the disease led to his death on August 29, 2016 at 3:19 pm PDT in Los Angeles, fortunately it never progressed to the point where it claimed Gene’s ability to recognize loved ones or to lose his personality. The transits surrounding his passing are interesting. The Aquarius eclipse on August 18, 2016 was in a wide orb to his Saturn in Aquarius, Saturn always relates to health, also his Moon, signifying changes was edged by the eclipse. Transit Uranus in Aries was just 2 degrees away from a return to its natal place, an aspect frequently found when there is a passing. Transit Jupiter and Venus, the celestial benefics, conjunct in Virgo activated his Virgo placements, hinting that the passing had elements of being peaceful, in its way a blessing. It was reported that those closest to Gene commented that he was with his beloved Gilda.
Their romance was like a comic love story. Gilda was born on June 28, 1946 at 7:30 am Est in Detroit, Michigan. She was a star on Saturday Night Live. When they met in 1981 she was unhappily married and made a strong play for Wilder, who at first felt she was too needy and baby like and so backed away from the involvement. After a roller coaster relationship they eventually married. Gilda had a Leo ascendant with Mercury, Venus and Pluto in Leo, showing her strong and colorful personality. Her Moon was at 27 degrees Gemini, very close to Wilder’s Sun. Also her Uranus in Gemini, was also near his Sun, describing the electrical connection between the two comedic legends. The Sun-Moon tie in compatibility astrology is traditionally interpreted as the strongest link between horoscopes. Her Sun and Saturn in Cancer in the 12th house added complexity and notes of secret insecurity to her personality. The strong 12th house as well as her natal Mars in Virgo indicate her health challenges too. Gilda passed away on May 20, 1989, just before her 43rd birthday. At that time Saturn, Uranus and Neptune were transiting Capricorn, afflicting her 6th house of health and oppose her natal Cancer placements in the 12th house. Transit Mars in Cancer was also in Gilda’s 12th house, at the midpoint between her natal Sun and Saturn. These are all influences frequently found in event charts of deaths. As is common in the horoscope of a famous person with a strong planetary emphasis in cadent houses, (she had Jupiter and Neptune in Libra in her 3rd (cadent) house as well as the strong 12th house) events in the future continue the story and influence of her life. In 2008 Gene published a book honoring her. Pictures of the book signing marked one of his last public appearances. The charitable foundation in her name to help cancer patients continues on as well.
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