October 28th - November 24th

Sign ~~ The Reed

Ngetal (NYEH-tl), reed - The term "reed" is used with great imprecision in North America, but it is clear that the reed of the ogham is the common reed (Phragmites australis (Cav.) Trin. ex Steudel). This is a giant grass, with stems as high as 12 feet. It grows in marshy areas, where it often forms dense stands. Like most other grasses, the vertical stems live only a single year, dying in the autumn and being replaced with new green shoots in the spring. The dead stems rattle and whisper in late autumn winds. Common reed has spread as a weed throughout the world; in North America it is widespread in cooler climates. Common reed is in the Grass family (Poaceae, or Gramineae).

Symbol ~~ The White Hound or the Stone

Character of the Reed:  Reed characters are the duality aspect of the Ivy sign. Persephone and Pluto form a unifying aspect of the psyche which nevertheless is full of drama and passion.  People born at this time have a powerful personal presence similar to the Ivy people, the difference being that Reed people are more forceful and less inclined to compromise, for they have a role to play which excludes any signs of weakness or the luxury of sitting on the fence.  They act like catalysts rather than competitors in life, and they are more concerned with changing the whole formula of life rather than certain aspects of it.  New Moon people born during the first two weeks will make both powerful friends and enemies as their initial response is inclined to be impatient and impulsive. They will, however, maintain their position and achieve a great deal of respect, especially from their adversaries. Full Moon people plan their moves with more subtlety and achieve more recognition publicly, but they are inclined to want to move on to other things which can undermine their true sense of purpose. Generally speaking, Reed people are great survivors in life who are inclined to encounter the hostility of others rather than a helping hand.