his agreement or contract; and when both turn retrograde there will be an annulment by
mutual consent. Similar effects have been noted in regard to marriage."
Conjunction. This is classified as a constructive influence, though much depends on the
nature of the planets. Modern authorities tend to reject the classification of aspects as good or
bad, since a so-called bad aspect has constructive possibilities to an individual who has the
strength of resolve to put it to constructive use.
Parallel. The same nature as a conjunction. Since it is usually coincident with a conjunction it
serves to give it an added accent. This accent is helpful if it involves other aspects from
favorable planets. The effect of a parallel is generally considered to be of longer duration than
that of a conjunction.
Semi-Sextile (30°). An aspect of mixed quality, rhythmically favorable but involving planets
in inharmonious signs.
Semi-Square or Semi-Quartile (45°). Generally termed a malefic aspect; somewhat
mitigated, in case the aspecting planet is a benefic.
Sextile, Hexagon (60°). A favoring aspect, involving planets in congenial signs of the same
polarity (q.v.). Alan Leo says of the Sextile aspect: that it partakes of the nature of Moon and
Neptune; that it is more combining than any other aspect, and is often more potent and
favorable than the trine; that its color largely depends on the nature of the planets involved,
and of the Signs they occupy; and that while the trine may be said to denote negative
goodness such as a reward for past deeds, the sextile denotes positive good in that it generates
the activity that produces change and thus possesses greater potentiality for the future.
Square. Quartile (90°). Generally deemed unfavorable, since it represents the struggle of two
forces at cross-purposes. It imposes severe tasks to be accomplished only through much
concentration and self-denial -- often interpreted by the individual in terms of ambition.
Trine (120°). Supposedly the most favoring of aspects, joining planets in congenial signs of
the same element. Trines are like having "a silver spoon in your mouth" - luck becoming
"happy-go-lucky" for lack of the ambition that is born of challenge.