Combined Western and Chinese Zodiacs
Aries Horse

The Western zodiac represents a life cycle beginning with the Northern vernal equinox around 21 March: the start of Aries. Hence Aries are the zodiac’s forever infants. Their character is analogous to the early years that form the most intense time of learning in a human’s life. Ruled by the planet Mars, Aries are dynamic, wilful, eager, with a compelling innocence and sense of wonder. All three Fire signs are celebrated, and sometimes feared, for the flame-like aspects of their character—their cherished light and warmth, spellbinding visual appeal, and sheer incendiary power. The Cardinal modality of Aries represents Fire at its most pure and combustible, an initiating force of unparalleled intensity in the Universe. This powerful drive for action and attention naturally comes with a countervailing risk that Aries may overextend themselves, putting themselves or others in danger, or getting swept up in egotistical furies or fantasies. In turn, Aries’ child-like inclination means feelings of neglect or frustration can draw them into maudlin sulking or pettiness. Given favorable circumstances and company, however, the passion and courage of Aries natives is the stuff of legend. Perhaps no other sign is capable of matching Aries’ blazing physical feats, stirring leadership, or visionary idealism.

The seventh sign in the Eastern zodiac is the dazzling Horse. (Legend has it that fear of a cemetery caused the Horse to slow to a snail's pace during the Jade Emperor's race.) The Horse is by nature a performer: bewitching, idealistic, and fearless. Skilled orators with energy to burn, Horse natives are comfortable in any role where they are free to captivate an audience, from sports to the theater to politics. Above all else, the Horse craves independence. These free spirits are famously more intellectual than emotional. Indeed, they can occasionally be accused of insensitivity or selfishness. But given physical and emotional freedom to indulge their expansive personalities, they can be breathtaking performers, inspirational rebels, or—like that most famous of Horses, James Dean—both.