Combined Western and Chinese Zodiacs
Cancer Monkey

The fourth sign of the Western zodiac, Cancers are forever imprinted with the time of early adulthood. Like a twenty-something beginning to make their own way in the world, Cancers find their attention continually shifting inward. On the physical plane, this manifests as a priority to establish and care for their own home and family. On a more abstract level, it means a fascination with individual identity, empathy, and the formation of close personal bonds. As with all three Water signs, Cancer has a natural variability, a tendency to hide away at times in darkness, yet at others to fill the horizon like an ocean. As a Cardinal modality, Cancer represents Water at its most essential, fluid, reactive. Thus Cancers are sometimes accused of being easily disturbed, yet when at peace they can enter effortlessly a rich dreamworld, filled with compassion, sensitivity, and reflection.

Ninth in the Eastern zodiac is that complex genius, the Monkey. This sign is brilliantly imaginative, sparklingly witty, and roguishly playful—often, all at once! Ever on the lookout for opportunities to apply their startling abilities, Monkey souls are celebrated the world over for their virtuosity, and the infinite variety of their talents. The Monkey sign does tend to need more stimulation than most. If their skills are not occupied, they are apt to make their own fun, which can make others feel like playthings rather than equals. This year is also surprisingly prone to isolation and disillusion, often so well masked by apparent energy and versatility that the Monkey suffers in secret. Fortunately, however, the Monkey's lively banter and flirtatiousness means they are rarely alone for long. Their natural inquisitiveness and tenacity enables them to bounce back quickly from challenges, and to return to the incredible feats of ingenuity that are their trademark.