Mars in Focus: Individual and Society

Dear Friend and Reader:

This week, Mars in Cancer comes into range of opposing the Saturn-Pluto conjunction. I've been writing about this for weeks, such as in this article, and this one. And Friday, I released a video that offers another take on the aspect pattern, and gives some of its history.

With all of that said, I want to offer one thought this week, as Mars comes back into focus, in a series of transits that will last till the Cancer solstice.

Detail of a mosaic of Mount Sharp, taken by the Mars Curiosity Rover last year. Image by NASA/JPL-Caltech/MSSS. View in full here.

Nothing says "individual will" quite like Mars in Cancer. This is the emotionally driven element of will, at once passionate and yet cyclical in nature (like anything in Cancer). The ancient rules of astrology say that Mars is in "fall" in Cancer, meaning that it's irritated, it stands out, and can be extra-strong despite the discomfort.

Mars now makes a series of three oppositions to major elements in Capricorn. Beginning this week, it is conjunct the Moon's north node and opposite the Moon's south node. This contains the key to the aspect pattern.

On June 14, Mars opposes Saturn in Capricorn, which is a classic aspect describing power and authority struggles. On June 19, Mars opposes Pluto in Capricorn, another in the "battle of the wills" type of aspects.

Mars in Cancer on the North Node wants something new: whether it's emotional experience, personal territory or freedom from the past. Points conjunct the North Node can hesitate, uncertain whether the unfamiliar territory described is what they really want. Yet there is a pull to the North Node that is difficult to resist.

Saturn and Pluto conjunct the South Node in Capricorn describe the past. Saturn and Pluto are retrograde, which is another reference to the past. This side of the pattern seems intractable, made of some dense substance that does not want to release its grip.

Now, think of how this describes our moment. Mars represents the individual being who wants change in some form, who is driven emotionally, whose motivation is not entirely consistent, and who is iffy about any quest for the future.

NASA's Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter captured this stunning overhead view of Olympus Mons in January 2018, showing multi-layered terrain. Image by NASA/JPL-Caltech/University of Arizona. See at full size here.

On the other side of the equation is all that seemingly dense material out of history, which both individuals and society drag around as if nothing else is possible. William Faulkner famously wrote in his Requiem for a Nun, "The past is never dead. It's not even past." This is how we live. Even very young people walk around convinced that the way things were is the way they will always be.

This would not be possible if it were considered more carefully, more actively, and with greater concern for the problem.

Mars in Cancer may seem to oppose Saturn and Pluto, as if it's exerting energy in their direction. Yet the direction of movement implied is in the direction of the North Node, not the South. Change comes not from confronting the past and attempting to change it, or wage war with it, but rather entering new territory.

Unlike Saturn and Pluto in Capricorn, the new territory is not about society. It's not about institutions or families or history or whatever seems to comprise the status quo. Rather, Mars in Cancer on the North Node is about some missing experience you need in order to demonstrate that something is possible other than what has happened; other than what has gone wrong.

As John Lennon said,

You tell me it's the institution
Well, you know
You better free your mind instead

Or you might say free your imagination. Remember that all through this extravaganza, Mars in Cancer is trine Neptune in Pisces. In the process of mediating between the past and the future, creativity is a rather helpful tool, and it's right within reach.

The sign and rising sign interpretations below are based on the chart for Mars conjunct the North Node. For the day by day, check out my birthday readings, which we're now posting for subscribers a week ahead.

Don't forget to watch my video on this aspect pattern.

With love,


PS -- As you may know, the namesake of Planet Waves is Bob Dylan's album by the same name, and by some miracle, I get to stay in close contact with Camp Bob (in the form of its counselor, Jeff Rosen). Jeff informed me Friday that a new documentary about the 1975 Rolling Thunder Revue tour will be available on Netflix starting June 12, and better yet, it will be in theaters for one day and one day only on Tuesday, June 11. I'm planning to catch the showing in Great Barrington. Write to me if you plan to be there.

Here is the official trailer, here is one sample song ("Hard Rain"), and the advert with theater listings is below. Jeff does a fantastic job in general, and in particular specializes in making sure people know who Bob Dylan is. As my old, old friend Sibyl North once said to me, "We live in the time of the modern Shakespeare. Pay attention." More to say on Sunday's Planet Waves FM. Thanks, Bob, for the catchy turn of phrase; we're making good use of it.

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Call the Astrologer Video Readings
Mars in Cancer Meets Saturn, Pluto, Eris

Dear Friend and Reader:

This week, Mars comes into contact with the aspect pattern defining our moment in history: Mars in Cancer will oppose the Saturn-Pluto conjunction. This takes place now through June 22, and then begins to disengage.

It's a before and after moment.

What we have here is an example of the astrology behind dire predictions. Saturn-Pluto is a meeting of the immovable object (Saturn) and the unstoppable force (Pluto). Both are retrograde in Capricorn, so it's a picture of maximum density and also explosive energy.

Eric Francis.

If you were to look up Mars opposite Saturn, or Mars opposite Pluto, in nearly any astrology book, you would not read friendly interpretations. Astrologers tend to be pessimistic about aspect patterns like this -- maybe because people tend to handle them badly.

There are two main ways to experience astrology like this. Which will you choose?

Most people, completely unaware of what's going on and what their options are, pick the hard way. They end up in power struggles with people, internalizing and then projecting the hurts done to them by others. They often run into brick walls as they try to exert some control over things.

Right now, you still have the opportunity to choose an easier way -- or, at least, a more constructive way. You can't necessarily call it "easy," because it takes conscious effort and awareness. Yet knowing the astrology offers an approach, and tools to navigate your circumstances and your consciousness.

Working with this pattern rather than against it has the potential to leave you in a stronger position than you were before.

I've recorded a set of videos titled Call the Astrologer, which reveal this pattern for what it is. In them, I break down how to use these tools and harness the energy of Mars opposite Saturn and Pluto in ways specific to each individual sign and rising sign.

You will definitely want to watch your sign and rising sign. They are all excellent; each is useful and clarifying to anyone who sees it. You are invited to share the videos you purchase with friends and loved ones.

We've created a set of samples here, which are watchable by sign.

Here's how to get access to all 12 readings, or you may purchase individually. If you order two readings, we will give you a third on us.

Thank you for being a Planet Waves customer, and for trusting me as your astrologer.

With love,
PS -- You may purchase by phone, or bundle Call the Astrologer with a membership or renewal, by calling (206) 567-4455.

PPS -- These readings are included with the Backstage Pass.

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All Day, All Night: Open Services from Planet Waves

Dear Friend and Reader:

We understand that many people are stressed out and having a challenging time these days. There are not many places to turn where you can feel acceptance and reassurance, and experience honest discussion of matters facing individuals and society. We're here to offer such a place.

One of our missions as an organization is to provide no-cost, advertising-free services available to anyone who has internet access. While our business is supported by our subscribers, customers, clients, donors and volunteers, all who offer their energy to Planet Waves know their contributions help make available a diversity of reassuring, helpful offerings.

Here are a few of them. Clip and save! Please pass forward to anyone who might benefit.

Read more...

Daily Birthday Readings from Planet Waves

As a new feature on our Monday Morning pages, we're adding our If Today is Your Birthday readings for the week ahead. To all readers whose birthday falls this week, we wish you many happy returns. Sunday, June 9, 2019 (The Day of Mental Insistence) One interesting fact of literature is that it's the fictional books that last the longest, and the factual books that seem to fade into obscurity long before their pages go yellow. What is memorable about life is what we learn from story. This can have mighty power, and it can be equally toxic, as people abuse the power of narrative to convince themselves of things that ultimately do not serve them. From day to day and year to ear, you tell stories about your life. Make sure those stories are ones that actually support your growth, and put you into contact with your deeper being. Listen carefully when you speak.
Monday, June 10, 2019 (The Day of Laughter and Sadness) Keep your perspective: don't make small things larger than they are, and don't count the small things as meaningless. Everything counts, though be aware of your tendency to exaggerate on the one hand, and get lost in the details on the other. Handle your affairs by prioritizing the most important matters, and the most timely; and by breaking big tasks into manageable steps. Venus newly in your birth sign suggests you will associate generosity with popularity. Be sure to keep those things in their proper places. Tuesday, June 11, 2019 (The Day of the Limit Pushers) You may not know where a creative or emotional opportunity will lead you, though that's not a good reason to pass it up. If you don't follow your curiosity, what are you following? Caution is not a motivator, any more than you can drive to California only by stepping on the brake pedal. Challenges will most certainly arise, and they are more than "tests" and "lessons." Your experience of your life is your opportunity to understand yourself, and to experiment with what you want. There would be no point to freedom otherwise. Wednesday, June 12, 2019 (The Day of Buoyant Optimism) Can there really be a battle between the past and the present? The past exists only in our minds, though for many people, that's compelling enough to hold them there permanently. You are being summoned to find the present, and to resolve to live your life your way. That means you will need to abandon the seeming requirements and obligations others placed on you in the distant reaches of your history. Commit yourself to being the person you are today, not the figment of anyone's imagination, including your own. Thursday, June 13, 2019 (The Day of Far-Off Adventure) You will have to work for what is yours, and that's what will make it your own. Taking possession of your talent, your energy, your efforts, your desires, your ability to love, your creativity and your sexuality -- these are all body-level commitments much more than mental activities. Yet they are all connected to decisions, and these decisions must be made consciously. And then, if necessary, made consciously again the next day, and the next. What you are really exercising is your freedom to choose. Friday, June 14, 2019 (The Day of Gutsy Confrontation) For some time, your life has been a confrontation about whose power and influence not only guide but also define you. Ask yourself frequently who is actually making your decisions, and on what basis. Even if you feel that it's you, the thing to question is what constraints seem to box you in. It's high time that nobody held any power over you, though if there is indeed power, someone has to hold it: and it will be you, or someone else. This is not a hard choice to make. Saturday, June 15, 2019 (The Day of Pleasant Seduction) The important thing with love is that you be able to receive it as well as to offer it. This is the essence of many seemingly different issues, though it's all a masquerade ball. To love is to be able to accept love, because that describes openness, vulnerability and a measure of self-value. Beware of situations where you give yourself emotionally to some end that you don't understand. Rather, as Paul McCartney said in "Hey Jude," let it out and let it in. Sunday, June 16, 2019 (The Day of Capital Investment) Today's meeting of the Moon and Jupiter offers many signs of hope and encouragement, though don't put your eggs in anyone else's basket but your own. You must find the guts to have confidence in yourself -- enough confidence to take action, whether you think you will succeed or fail. The result is not the point, so much as whether you rise above the malaise of the world and challenge yourself to take action, no matter what else anyone says, does or thinks is right.

-- By Eric Francis

Hear Eric speak about your year in-depth in your 2019-20 Gemini Astrology Studio Reading. Monthly Horoscopes and Publishing Schedule Notes

We published your extended monthly horoscope for June on Thursday, May 30. Your extended monthly horoscope for May was published on Thursday, April 25. Please note: we normally publish the extended monthly horoscope after the Sun has entered a new sign. Aries (March 20-April 19) -- Face any emotional challenges head-on this week. You have the option to deceive or obfuscate your way out of any uncomfortable situation. You can use smoke and mirrors and do a disappearing act, though you will still be left in the same basic position. What may seem confusing is that it keeps manifesting as someone else -- either as their problem, or the seeming solution being in their hands. This is where you need to take ownership, and rely less on others. The more willing you are to take hold of your circumstances, particularly in domestic environments, the more you will find that your own original approaches come to you. One thing to track is the extent to which your emotional situation infuses your physical environment. This happens through both the filter of your mind and feelings, and the influence that your mood has on others. The more you notice when and how this happens, the easier it will be to get a handle on yourself. Get your full Aries reading by Eric here.

Taurus (April 19-May 20) -- It takes considerable maturity to understand that you don't have to live the way others expect you to live, particularly where your most intimate relationships are concerned. Not only is there no 'normal', what is counted as such is usually forced onto people unwillingly. The 'normal' thing to do changes like the tides, the seasons and the fashions, even when life is less frenetic than it is today. Vesta in your birth sign is here to teach you to be bold about who you actually are, no matter what others may think. It's nobody's decision but your own who you love, how you love them, or why you do. How to conduct a relationship is entirely the choice of the people involved. There are many who are not suited for any 'normal' form of relationship that society seems to make mandatory, and if that is true of you, take full possession of your values. Every person on the planet has their own original sexual and emotional orientation. Get your full Taurus reading by Eric here.

Gemini (May 20-June 21) -- Don't defend your values; live them freely. Your solar chart is a study in what motivates you. Do you know what it is? Do you allow yourself to connect with your true drive? One thing you may experience this week is the desire to do just that, and some anger at yourself for not having done so in the past. Yet your astrology is all about what you choose now, based on what motivates you now. This calls for emotional independence from others, and keeping the past in its correct place, so that it does not bog you down today. You may experience a "clash of the cultures" between what was true for you in the past, and what is true for you currently. You might ask, however, whether your truth from the past had anything at all to do with you, or whether it was all about what your parents expected of you. When you really engage this discussion, it will seem like a confrontation of the first order. When you are past it, you will feel like you were just living your life. Get your full Gemini reading by Eric here.

Cancer (June 21-July 22) -- Mars in your sign describes you as someone determined to do what you gotta do -- and it's high time you figured that out. Be prepared, though, for those with lesser imaginations, and less courage, to resist you. More significantly, be aware of your own psychological resistance that you may attribute to your family background or any element of your past history. While it's true that there are plenty of zombies staggering about, as if we live in the world of the undead, you are alive. And being alive is not about shooting zombies or changing the opinions of your relatives (or your partner or boss or whoever might seem to have power over you). Being alive is about living. Most resistance that you feel is a facet of your own psyche, though this can be the most challenging substance to move. It helps if you know what you're doing; your life is about you, not about them. Get your full Cancer reading by Eric here.

Leo (July 22-Aug. 23) -- It's healthy to confront your deepest fears; this way you can decide if you want to do something about them, rather than have them run your life from behind the scenes. I suggest you do something bold, which is put your fears into words. Not on Facebook please. Not in email or anywhere near the internet. Use an old-fashioned notebook and give yourself an opportunity to cleanse your soul. Do this at the moment you're having the experience, whether late at night, at your desk, while you're eating, or wherever. There's another side to this: articulating your deepest desires. Reach in and pull them out. Be bold -- be truthful with yourself about whatever they are. The action of Mars this week is especially encouraging of a certain kind of raw honesty about your sexuality. Work your way past any shame, guilt and embarrassment to the point where you feel a breakthrough. Once again, your notebook is your best friend. No computers, no internet. Private. Get your full Leo reading by Eric here.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sep. 22) -- Burn off the fog, and be real about what you intend to do with the opportunities that are in front of you. You are not deciding "what to do with the rest of your life" but rather what to do with your opportunity to live, now. There are many distractions; conflict abounds on the planet right now, all around us, and within most people. The way conflict potentially manifests for you is on the level of your priorities. This will be the most pervasive when you don't consider the question of what matters to you -- that is, matters most, or at all. The problem of commitment does need to be recognized for what it is, since the implication is that you will devote yourself and, at the same time, let go of lesser priorities that don't serve your real goals. The question to ask, though, is: in what ways do those lesser priorities serve you? Do they "protect" you from what you truly desire and need? Get your full Virgo reading by Eric here.

Libra (Sep. 22-Oct. 23) -- You may be taken on something of an odyssey this week, though give yourself enough emotional distance to see any drama for what it is. The world is a setup right now -- for triggers and disasters and disappointments, all of which amount to a tornado in the blender. You have genuine aspirations, and cannot afford to be distracted by all the world's excuses. You believe in justice, which is not going to be litigated on Instagram. There are places you want to go, and you're not going to get there in a movie theater or by watching Netflix. And more than anything, you are ready to take the risk of connecting to people with depth and meaning, which will necessitate courage. That is the whole point; there is no other way to meet the world honestly in our time in history than to be courageous, which means to have your heart open and be willing to take a chance. Get your full Libra reading by Eric here.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 22) -- You need some new ideas about your existence, and this week's astrology is like an atom smasher that will create new elements, new subatomic particles and, possibly, a window into a new reality for you. Yet this will come at the "cost" of being willing to challenge your old ideas about yourself, and your life. In order to do that, it's necessary that you encounter them directly. You will know you're doing this because you experience their density firsthand. You may be so accustomed to this that it seems like part of the landscape, though developing planetary patterns are describing something unusual. If you feel in any way lost, or trapped, or hung up, or frustrated, you may experience an impact of some kind that shakes you loose. This impact is likely to come from your own mind: as an idea you have that "threatens" the mental security structures of the past, which have come to be the single greatest factor undermining your peace of mind. Get your full Scorpio reading by Eric here.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 22) -- Handle a financial situation with care, caution and most of all awareness. There may be a great temptation to sign away your rights, or to take on a commitment that's too big for you to handle. Be mindful of this. You don't need to impress anyone. You don't need to take additional responsibility for anyone other than yourself, and you could probably benefit from handing back to a good few people their responsibility for themselves. Be conscious of what you do for the sake of image: for how you want to be seen, or how you think people will judge you. Do not confuse private, intimate matters with public ones. Image is worthless unless it comports with your deepest, underlying values. This is where the conflict may enter. And if you find yourself in conflict, be real with yourself when you evaluate what it's about. Get your full Sagittarius reading by Eric here.

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 20) -- Others may seem to challenge or provoke you, though you will experience that provocation on your density level at the time. Everyone knows there are days when we can allow something truly offensive to roll off of us, and other days when some minor social infraction is taken as a capital offense. That's about your density level. There used to be this useful concept called "expanded consciousness," which is another way of saying "opening up one's mind." You will have a series of opportunities to expand your consciousness and open your mind over the next few days, as Mars opposes a cluster of planets and points in your sign. Step one is to not take things so personally as we are conditioned to do these days. Avoid the "sport" of being offended, which is a hot item at the moment. Stay away from abstract concepts like social justice, and do the right thing in any situation where you find yourself. That would be plenty helpful for all involved. Get your full Capricorn reading by Eric here.

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 19) -- Be mindful of your stress level this week. You don't need to take anything new on, and there are many superfluous matters you can set aside. Focus on what matters, and give it what you've got. Remember your time, your labor and your ideas all have value, and that of the three, your ideas are the most efficient. That's because they can save both time and labor. Start by investing your energy there. Take up the difficult questions. Do not be satisfied with simplistic answers; stretch your intelligence. Do all of your calculations in long form. Look at the history of any problem you encounter, and ask yourself a real question: is the problem being defined in a way that it can be solved? To this end, be mindful when you encounter futility in any form. You are probably not asking the question the right way, or not asking the right question. Set some clear goals for yourself; three will suffice, the better if they are in some way related. Then proceed mindfully. Get your full Aquarius reading by Eric here.

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) -- Stay focused on what you know matters: your core mission, and core principles. While you're doing that, think in terms of what else you are interested in. Your astrology is describing an apparent conflict between what you want and what appears possible at the moment. It may seem to you that very little is possible, and that your dreams don't carry much potency. Even if that is true, your creativity, your curiosity and your passion are concentrated and powerful at the moment, and that is the place to focus. Be gutsy about experimenting, and open-minded about evaluating the results of your various explorations and trial runs. Whatever may be going on in the world, your mind is the thing through which you filter everything you experience, perceive and feel. No matter what the world may look like, the place to focus your energy is on your own consciousness and what you do with it. Keep your paint wet, your knife sharp and your heart and soul hungry for more. Get your full Pisces reading by Eric here.

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