Poems for the Planets
The planets are a foundational place to begin learning the symbology and language of astrology. In the poems of this project I am a learner and a devotee to each of the seven planets visible to the naked eye. The poems explore each of the planets as beings that I am getting to know and inviting into my life. All photos are my own.
As a learner, the planetary dignity system from the Hellenistic tradition has been invaluable to me for exploring the intricacies of each planet. It is not my intention to explain the dignity system, as it is incredibly complex and beautiful and other people do it far better than me, only to tell you that it is what I grounded in to write these devotional poems.
If you’d like to learn the details of the system I recommend two podcasts to start: The Astrology Podcast with Chris Brennan and Nightlight Astrology with Adam Elenbaas. You will see very quickly that the system is incredibly thorough and balanced, and that people have dedicated their lives to recovering the knowledge from this period (323 - 32 BCE).
in awe of Saturn
Saturn, the greater malefic. At home in Capricorn and Aquarius, in exile in Cancer and Leo. Depressed in Aries, exalted in Libra.
I am humbled.
To please Venus
Venus, the lesser benefic. At home in Taurus and Libra, exiled in Scorpio and Aries. Depressed in Virgo, exalted in Pisces.
For love and justice are the same.
dear Jupiter
Jupiter, the greater benefic. At home in Sagittarius and Pisces, in exile in Gemini and Virgo. Depressed in Capricorn, exalted in Cancer.
I am inspired.
Mercury, are you a genius?
Mercury, non-binary babe. At home in Gemini and Virgo, in exile in Sagittarius and Pisces. Never depressed, exalted at home in Virgo.
A magical friend
The Might of Mars
Mars, the lesser malefic. At home in Aries and Scorpio, in exile in Libra and Taurus. Depressed in Cancer, exalted in Capricorn.
Put me to work for you
Love for Luna
The Moon, the reflective luminary. At home in Cancer, in exile in Capricorn. Depressed in Scorpio, exalted in Taurus.
She knows
Solar SUNday
The Sun, our central luminary. At home in Leo, in exile in Aquarius. Depressed in Libra, exalted in Aries.
A leader