The Astrological Signs — an Introduction
There are twelve astrological signs of the zodiac. Each can be thought of as a ‘way’ or ‘mode’ in which each of the planet principles or functions can be characteristically expressed in a person.
Let’s go through the twelve signs and summarise their distinctive modes of expression by noting the keywords associated with each one. (You might notice that the keyword descriptions are roughly ordered along a continuum from ‘more desirable’ to ‘less desirable’.)
Aries ![]()
A planet-function in Aries will tend to be: active, objective, urgent, self-assertive, energetically projecting, combative, forceful, direct, courageous, adventurous, challenge-seeking, impulsive, restless, enterprising, seeking quick results, pioneering, fearless, frank, selfish, impatient, quick-tempered, foolhardy, brusque, rude, over-optimistic.
Taurus ![]()
A planet-function in Taurus will tend to be: productive, conservative, enduring, possessive, security-seeking (material things), practical, sceptical, stubborn, peace-loving, reliable, steadfast, patient, withholding, material-oriented, organically-related, sensuous, comfort-loving, industrious, cautious, over-possessive, self-indulgent, stodgy, grasping, unoriginal, slow, dull.
Gemini ![]()
A planet-function in Gemini will tend to be: adaptable, versatile, variable, communicative, intelligent, inquisitive, witty, perceptive, information-seeking, variety-seeking, interpretative, nervous, inconsistent, superficial, lacking continuity, diffuse, cunning.
Cancer ![]()
A planet-function in Cancer will tend to be: emotional, defensive, sensitive, tender, protective, cherishing, nourishing, introspective, security-seeking (emotions), easily hurt, resourceful, loyal, clannish, patriotic, sympathetic, imaginative, sentimental, moody, touchy, reserved, indrawn, timid, unstable.
Leo ![]()
A planet-function in Leo will tend to be: impressive, joyful, humorous, sunny, optimistic, creative, recreational, dramatic, gregarious, proud, magnanimous, dignified, self-expressing, seeking the broad picture, authoritative, dominating, intolerant, overbearing, autocratic, pompous, patronising.
Virgo ![]()
A planet-function in Virgo will tend to be: analytical, critical, discriminating, efficiency-seeking, perfectionist, attentive to detail, thorough, methodical, conscientious, precise, practical, helpful, dutiful, modest, reserved, health and hygiene oriented, hypercritical, pedantic, interfering, fastidious, prudish, fretful.
Libra ![]()
A planet-function in Libra will tend to be: charming, kind, easy-going, diplomatic, tactful, co-operative, peace-loving, impartial, fair, compromising, reasonable, seeking relatedness and balance and unity, harmony and beauty seeking, affectionate, tolerant, idealistic, unassuming, indecisive, uncertain, changeable, soft, squeamish, frivolous.
Scorpio ![]()
A planet-function in Scorpio will tend to be: penetrating, passionate, subtle, secretive, intense, determined, purposeful, focussed, deep, introspective, suspicious, jealous, resentful, extreme, vindictive.
Sagittarius ![]()
A planet-function in Sagittarius will tend to be: freedom-loving, optimistic, expansive, jovial, open-minded, sincere, frank, liberal, explorative, ambitious, enthusiastic, opportunity-seeking, foresighted, extensive in outlook, philosophically-inclined, careless, blunt, inconsiderate, extravagant, exaggerating, moralising, tactless.
Capricorn ![]()
A planet-function in Capricorn will tend to be: cool, rational, serious, prudent, cautious, conforming, methodical, deliberate, disciplined, diligent, industrious, patient, persevering, aspiring, sustaining of hardship and frustration, severe, exacting, critical, cold, pessimistic, over-conventional, cruel.
Aquarius ![]()
A planet-function in Aquarius will tend to be: detached, unconventional, unorthodox, original, unpredictable, inventive, progressive, scientific or technological, friendly, humanitarian, dispassionate , erratic, rebellious, eccentric, perverse, cranky, dogmatic.
Pisces ![]()
A planet-function in Pisces will tend to be: fluid, nebulous, impressionable, emotionally sensitive, intuitive, intangible, imaginative, self-transcending, other-worldly, spiritual, compassionate, generous, easy-going, undisciplined, impractical, too soft, gullible, extravagant, over-emotional, temperamental, confused, vacillating, escapist, fantasising, chaotic.

