The Red Queen Effect
In astrological terms, Venus experiences challenges in the sign of Aries. It is believed that the energy of Venus, associated with love and harmony, has difficulty expressing itself in the assertive and independent energy of Aries. This sign places a strong emphasis on individuality and self-expression, rather than cooperation and relationships. As a result, those with Venus in Aries may find it challenging to balance their desire for self-expression with their need for harmonious connections with others.
In Aries, Venus finds herself in the realm of Mars, the god of war. Despite the strong presence of force, conviction and energy, this environment may not be conducive to fostering harmonious relationships. This can prove to be a challenging terrain for Venus, who is associated with heartfelt and intimate connections. Mythology tells us that Mars is often depicted as a solitary figure, without a permanent partner, which may also reflect the difficulties in relationships that Venus experiences in Aries.
In Greek mythology, Ares, the god of war, was known for his solo adventures and a string of affairs rather than a lasting union. Similarly, in Vedic astrology, the deity associated with Mars, Kartikeya, was unmarried and spent time brooding and meditating in solitude. Having Venus in Aries may not render relationships impossible, but it could make being single a more attractive option.
Calliope and The Fire Flower
“Literature has up to now magnified pensive immobility, ecstasy and slumber. We want to exalt movements of aggression, feverish sleeplessness, the double march, the perilous leap, the slap and the blow with the fist.”
-The Futurist Manifesto
Venus, the planet of art, meets with the creative fire of Aries. Although Aries may be viewed as aggressive, it is also a highly imaginative sign tasked with molding the self. In this union, the delicate beauty of Venus blends with the fiery passion of Aries, resulting in a burst of creative energy, like the Fire Flower in Super Mario Bros.
A comparison can be made between Calliope, the muse of classical epic poetry and song, and Venus in Aries. Although epic poetry is not widely practiced today, the spirit of grand adventures embodied in epic stories such as those of Jason and the Argonauts, Odysseus and other heroic characters continue to be retold in modern tales like The Lord of the Rings and its derivatives. In epic stories, internal emotions are depicted in full detail and each story is a reflection of mythology and the human psyche. When Venus moves through Aries, many individuals feel reinvigorated and see themselves as key characters in a yet-to-be-written story. The fire of Aries inspires a vision of gods, humans, and magic, representing the myth of life.
Venus in Aries emphasizes the depiction of a self-realized individual, with a focus on individuality rather than their relationships with the world around them. One form of expression for this concept is seen in comic books, where superheroes, heroines, and villains often have their individuality defined and enhanced by their powers. These powers are often representations of the spirit in action, showing the manifestation of the self.
Heart of the Glamazon
The central conflict for Venus in Aries is rooted in the identification with aggressive, martial qualities. As a natural tomboy, she is comfortable among male-dominated environments. Venus represents personal taste, and in Aries, this includes a love for the aesthetics of boldness and assertiveness. She enjoys activities such as watching Ultimate Fighting Championship and playing Mortal Combat, drawn to the raw energy, creativity, and power displayed in these pursuits.
However, when it comes to sexuality, Venus in Aries tends to approach it from a more masculine perspective. They understand what men desire because in many ways, it aligns with their own desires. Venus in Aries oscillates between blending in as “one of the guys” and displaying a largely asexual demeanor, to exhibiting a powerful and direct approach to sexuality.
Being both embraced and excluded in male-dominated environments presents a challenge for Venus in Aries. In order to fit in with men, they may need to prove themselves and either downplay or use their sexuality strategically. Their close relationships with men may result in jealousy from other women, and they may also face rejection for not appearing feminine enough or for acting in a promiscuous manner. The identification with a masculine perspective creates difficulty in forming a self-image as a woman outside of male influence, and complicates their relationship with other women. The boundary between the sexes is often accentuated to reinforce the distinction, despite its permeability.
In today’s society, which exists between traditional gender roles and total gender equality, Venus in Aries crosses and blurs these lines by incorporating traditionally masculine traits into the cultural definition of femininity. Balancing being a tomboy, a porn star, and a feminist at the same time is challenging, but Venus in Aries rises to the occasion.
