Over the years there has been a great demand, especially from abroad, for transcriptions of CPA seminars, as well as from students attending the seminars who wish for a permanent record of the event for reading and study. We have accordingly established the CPA Press. Its purpose is to publish volumes of edited transcriptions of selected seminars given in recent times. Each volume includes two or three seminars under one title. One of the chief objectives of the CPA Press is to make available interesting and innovative astrological material which might never be otherwise included in a published volume or offered in a seminar format. These seminar volumes are published in hardback, with stitched binding on acid-free paper, including diagrams and horoscopes relevant to the seminars. They are attractive and enduring works of astrological literature; and offer readers at a distance the opportunity to be involved with the material offered by the CPA tutors.
The first titles are as follows:
Barriers and Boundaries The Horoscope
and the Defences of the Personality by Liz Greene
The Astrologer, the Counsellor and the Priest
by Liz Greene and Juliet Sharman-Burke
The Family Inheritance: Parental Images
in the Horoscope by Juliet Sharman-Burke
To the Edge and Beyond: Saturn, Chiron,
Pholus and the Centaurs by Melanie Reinhart
Venus and Jupiter: Bridging
the Ideal and the Real by Erin Sullivan
The Astrological Moon by Darby Costello
The Art of Stealing Fire Uranus in
the Horoscope by Liz Greene
Incarnation The Nodes and the
Four Angles by Melanie Reinhart
The Horoscope in Manifestation Prediction
and Psychological Dynamics by Liz Greene
Direction and Destiny in the Birth Chart
by Howard Sasportas
Water and Fire by Darby Costello
Where in the World? Astro*Carto*Graphy
and Relocation Charts by Erin Sullivan
Planetary Threads: Patterns of Relating
Among Family and Friends by Lynn Bell
Relationships and How to Survive Them
by Liz Greene
Earth and Air by Darby Costello
Astrology, History and Apocalypse
by Nicholas Campion
| " So for those of you who haven't got the message yet: If you can only afford one astrology book this year, then make it one of these maroon, gold blocked, volumes .... You will not be disappointed!" |
| Robin Heath
Astrological Journal |
Part One, The Psychology of Defences and Their Astrological Significators, begins with an assessment of the classical psychoanalytic delineation of defence mechanisms - oral, anal and Oedipal - linking these with particular elements and their characteristic behaviour patterns. Defences as expressed by each zodiac sign are discussed, as well as the typical defence systems of the planets and planetary aspects. The chart of Richard Burton provides material for an exploration of special defence patterns such as violence and alcohol addiction, and example charts from the group generate further discussion about the many ways in which we both protect and injure ourselves in the face of what we experience as life's threatening force.
Part Two, Saturn and Chiron as Defence Mechanisms, uses these two complex planetary symbols to explore all the experiences and feelings of denial and deprivation, wounding and damage, which make us erect barriers against life and each other. The characteristic defences of Saturn - avoidance, compensation, projection, scapegoating, envy, contempt - are discussed, as well as the positive and constructive function of Saturnian defences if we can bring some consciousness to the operation of our defence mechanisms. Chiron's meaning and expression are then explored, including the application of myths about Chiron to human behavioural and emotional patterns and the complex issue of collective wounding. Example charts from the group highlight specific configurations of both planets, leading to a discussion of the creative ways in which we can approach what may initially seem like our greatest failings.
| "...The content of Barriers and Boundaries is solid gold. This book deserves a place on the shelf of all practicing astrologers and any astrological student (which we all are) needs to read this material" |
| Robin Heath
The Astrological Association Journal, July/August 1996 Full text of review |
Part One, Astrological Counselling (by Juliet Sharman-Burke) first explores the important issue of boundaries, and then examines the value of sound communication techniques in order to make the astrological session comprehensible and helpful to the client. The interaction between astrologer and client in many typical situations - couples seeking advice, the severely disturbed client, the client wishing to know about death, the problems involved in predicting events - is examined from both a practical and a therapeutic perspective, and an evaluation of the dangers and risks involved in poor communication and prejudgement of the client reminds the astrologer that the horoscope does not render him or her exempt from needing a thorough understanding of human interaction.
Part Two, The Astrologer, the Counsellor
and the Priest (by Liz Greene) begins with an examination of the role
of the astrologer in context of astrology’s history. The archetypal background
which motivates any individual to study astrology is then deeply examined,
followed by a discussion of the charts of two great modern astrologers
- Dane Rudhyar and Alan Leo - from the perspective of the personal world-view
which any individual astrologer espouses. Charts from the group help to
illustrate what motivates those who choose to become astrologers. The unconscious
dynamics of the astrological session are then discussed, particularly the
projections which occur between astrologer and client (transference and
countertransference), as well as the deeper psychological reasons - both
positive and negative - which impel individuals into taking on the role
of the helper.
| " This is a book which should not just be recommended, but compulsory reading for all professional and semi-professional astrologers." |
| Anthony Owen
The Astrological Journal, March/April 1998 Full text of review |
| "This book is a must-have. If you are a counselling astrologer, buy this book. If you buy only one book this year, make it this one. It is the most thought provoking book on counselling for astrologers you could ever want." |
| Donna van Toen
The Mountain Astrologer, August/September 1998 Full text of review |
Part One, Images of Mother and Father in the Natal Horoscope, presents material on planets in the 4th and 10th houses as they reflect the individual's perceptions of the parents in the birth chart. Family patterns associated with the planets are explored, as well as how the parental unconscious may affect children and the hidden psychological dynamics of the family inheritance which drive all of us in adulthood. Planets placed in the parental houses are carefully examined, not as a means of "blaming" one's family background, but in terms of how they reflect the individual's own experience of and feelings toward each parent, and how greater consciousness of these feelings and experiences can help to break destructive patterns and release creative energy for the individual. Seminar participants contribute their own experiences of planets in the parental houses, creating a lively interchange.
Part Two, Zodiac Myths and their Correlation with Parental Images, emphasises the enormous value of looking at charts through mythic eyes. This seminar concentrates on the parental signatures in the horoscope by exploring the meaning and ramifications of the zodiacal signs at the MC and the IC, and the myths associated with those signs. The myths of the zodiac are told and discussed psychologically, particularly in terms of how they reflect the images of the parents - their personalities and behaviour - as seen through the eyes of the individual. Myths are invariably embedded in and disguised by personal experience, and the discovery of the mythic backdrop underpinning the personal experience of the parents can be enormously healing, not only for the individual but also for his or her actual relationship with the parents. Group participation in the material fleshes out the archetypal images and gives direct and immediate insight into how these mythic themes are enacted in individual lives.
| "Sharman-Burke has a warm, inviting, light touch... I would highly recommend this book to those beginning a serious investigation of psychological astrology. ...it is suitable for beginners as well as intermediate students, and to all of those who are attracted to an intuitive and imaginative approach to astrology. It is rich reading for all who would agree with the author that 'for our own self-development we are well advised to look within.'" |
| Mary Plumb
The Mountain Astrologer, December 96/January 1997 Full text of review |
And Beyond - Part Two brings ground-breaking
new ideas drawn from recent astronomical discoveries in the outer solar
system. Several new celestial objects that behave somewhat like Chiron
have been catalogued, and officially named "Centaurs". This unique compilation
presents new material concerning the orbit cycle of Chiron, and a summary
and elaboration of astrological research to date on Pholus, the second
Centaur. In addition, preliminary original material on the meaning of the
third Centaur, 1992HA2, "Nessus" is included, in print for the first time.
The meaning of the Centaurs is re-contextualised, and a 100-year ephemeris
for both Pholus and Nessus is included, as well as several explanatory
diagrams. All technical material was specially computed by Dieter Koch.
Through this work, the reader can participate in seminars where seed ideas
were being expressed for the first time.
| "...Melanie has clearly grappled deeply with Saturn and
her observations will enrich both the beginner and the adept.
...I have to applaud her bravery and perspicacity in presenting this new material. Clearly, it will take a considerable period of time to develop and integrate Pholus and Nessus (after all, most of us have only recently integrated Chiron) But, once again, like a true Centaur, Reinhart is blazing a trail for the rest of us to follow." |
| Jamie Macphail
The Astrological Association Journal, January/February 1997 Full text of review |
| " The older texts on Venus and Jupiter often treat their combination as an excessive, sickly affair. Such a judgement cannot be placed on Erin's latest feast, which has to be essential reading for any serious student of astrology. This reviewer hasn't had so much fun with an astrology book, nor gleaned so much for many a year." |
| Robin Heath
The Astrological Journal 1998 Full text of review |
| " I loved this book; it is wonderfully educational about questions of life, love and meaning and I highly recommend it to those curious about further insights into the nature of the benefics. " |
| Mary Plumb
The Mountain Astrologer 1998 Full text of review |
For the last twenty-eight years Darby Costello
has been watching the progressed Moon as it moves through the signs and
the houses of the astrological chart. In the two seminars contained in
this book she explores the Moon in its relationship to the natal Sun; and
the progressed Moon, by sign and house, as it describes the unfolding of
our emotional life which leads us to the awakening of our souls. She also
traces the cycle of the progressed Moon as it interweaves with the Saturn
cycle, marking moments where crisis and change become gateways to new dimensions
of experience. These gateways bring past and future together, and provide
openings to the points of intersection between time and eternity that dwell
in each of us.
| "..a high quality, exquisitely produced hard-back which won't fall apart when it has become a well-loved and often thumbed-through favourite.... Whilst it is packed with plenty of principles and accuracy and knowledge, all the essentials for rigorous study, in fact it is its 'moistness' - a distinctly lunar quality - that wets the imaginative appetite...... Truly a 'must' for every astrological library." |
| Suzi Harvey
The Astrological Journal, May/June 1997 Full text of review |
Part One, Uranus in the Birth Chart, begins with using mythic and historical material to amplify and deepen our understanding of the planet, linking these images with psychological states, behaviour patterns, and ways in which the planet is reflected in the individual's life. The suffering of Prometheus provides us with a vivid portrayal of the price to be paid for Uranian inspiration, and the importance of the ego as a container for Uranus is stressed. The planet's pathology and inspirational nature are discussed, as well as its placement in each pair of houses in the birth chart. Contributions from seminar participants bring immediate personal experience to the general discussion. Uranus in aspect to other planets is also explored, and its special issues in relation to one's own attitude toward the body. An example chart from the group is discussed at length to ground the material.
Part Two, The Transits of Saturn and Uranus,
examines these two great symbols of the critical stages of the life process,
linking them together as well as exploring them individually through the
important aspects of their transit cycles. Using the mythic image of the
archetypal battle between Ouranos the sky God and Saturn the Titan to highlight
the alternating and interwoven critical points of the two planets' cycles
the important issues challenging us at particular ages - physical, emotional,
intellectual and spiritual - are discussed in depth. The chart of C. G.
Jung, with natal Saturn opposition natal Uranus, is used as an example
of the kinds of conflicts and events associated with particular stages
of both planets' cycles, and several charts from the group are then discussed
at length to explore not only the transits of these planets to their own
places, but also Saturn and Uranus transiting in aspect to other planets
in the natal chart.
| "..her insights seem to crystallize effortlessly out of her interaction with the audience, giving us a glimpse into her personal philosophy, thoughts, and feelings.... Her deep and poetic style reminded me more than once of Kahlil Gibran's The Prophet. Whatever her subject, Greene is herself a revelation, a gift of fire for the astrological community." |
| Dr. Glenn Perry
The Astrological Journal, July/August 1997 Full text of review |
| " The Art of Stealing Fire is teaching at its best. " |
| Horoscope magazine, September 1997
Full text of review |
Part One, The Four Angles, looks in depth at their symbolism and meaning. The reader is taken on a journey around the angles, considering their element, mode, and accompanying natal and transiting planets, as well as an illuminating presentation of the astronomy involved. Traditional interpretations are augmented by the fresh and original perspectives characteristic of Melanie’s teaching style, which focuses on evoking personal insight as much as conveying information or technique. There is also a guided imagery exercise which can be followed by the reader, designed to further personalise and deepen the material.
Part Two, The Moon’s Nodes, invites
the reader to contemplate their meaning from first principles, considering
the interrelationship of the Sun, Moon, and Earth in space. Established
ideas about the interpretation of the Nodes are reviewed and sometimes
challenged, and there are several interesting and original avenues of further
exploration suggested. The imagery of the dragon is considered, along with
Draconic astrology, a fascinating case study, and an exploration of the
psychological processes connected with eclipses. The existing literature
on the Nodes is not vast, and this book will doubtless become a welcome
addition, inspiring the reader with new techniques and perspectives which
can easily be applied to the chart to yield new understanding.
Part One, Complexes and Projection, examines the important psychological model of the complex as both a generator of individual behaviour and an archetypal image of individual fate. From spiritual, archetypal and clinical perspectives the dynamics of the psyche are examined through this model, with an exploration of the many ways, material and psychological, through which complexes are expressed. The relationship between complexes and birth chart configurations is then thoroughly discussed using various examples from the group as well as theoretical material. Complexes at work in relationships are discussed in context of the synastry between two horoscopes, followed by an investigation of the astrological signatures of complexes as the motivating power behind physical symptoms.
Part Two, A Psychological Approach to Transits
and Progressions, begins with an exploration of the different levels
on which transits and progressions are experienced - teleological, emotional,
and concrete. When does an event occur? When it is physically "real" or
psychologically real to the individual? Transits and progressions as reflections
of the triggering of complexes are then examined, and specific transits
are then explored. The difference between transits and progressions is
thoroughly dealt with, with an example chart used to illustrate the way
in which the individual creates his or her own reality. Progressed new
and full Moons as well as transit cycles are then discussed, and further
example charts from the group highlight particular configurations to give
insight into the ways in which inner and outer reality coincide and reflect
each other.
| " So for those of you who haven't got the message yet: If you can only afford one astrology book in 1998, then make it one of these maroon, gold blocked, volumes (especially this one, though as the year is still young are there are hopefully more on the way). You will not be disappointed! " |
| Robin Heath
Astrological Journal Full text of review |
These seminars were given during 1990 and 1991, but the interpretations and perspectives offered do not date, and are as relevant to the astrologer in the next millennium as they were to the astrologer in the 1990's. We cannot know how Howard's astrology might have developed, had he been able to continue his work. I have no doubt that he would have continued to grow in stature and depth, offering innovative perspectives which incorporated any new astrological and psychological insights that came his way. Howard's work never stood still, as befits a cardinal sign; he was perpetually seeking new ways of looking at things, astrologically, psychologically, and spiritually. We can only mourn what we have lost, yet at the same time celebrate what we have - a legacy which can help us all to become not only better astrologers but also better human beings.
| "When I finished reading Darby Costello's book, I went for a swim in a cool pool in the blazing hot summer sun, always an inspiring combination. My mind was still humming with the words of Ms.Costello's equally inspiring tributes to the heat of fire and the mystery of water. If you are weak in water or fire, this book will give you insight into what others might be feeling. If water or fire are your strengths, reading this book will feel like a noble celebration of your essence." |
| Mary Plumb
The Mountain Astrologer 1999 Full text of review |
This book on Astro*Carto*Graphy and Relocation not only exceeds the reach of natal astrology, it defines, articulates and enlarges the local view of an individual's horoscope to a global view, thus expanding our local focus - natal - to an organic global relationship.
The individual is not confined to his or her birthplace, but is a whole-world person. Erin Sullivan has brought global astrology into a new place, a highly entertaining and enlightening place.
For the first time ever, a comprehensive grasp of who we are in the world is here between these covers. A true millennium book, it opens the door to understanding how the planets see us all over the world, as well as how we see them from our local frame of reference.
The stories from the audience are amazing. . . from the smallest move
of only a few miles , to a move across one time zone, to relocations from
one hemisphere and culture to another, we experience the dramatization
of real lives in real places. This is the definitive book
on people in the world - whether or not you are physically there, your
consciousness is!
| "This book is rich and full of wisdom. When we finish the last page we recognise we have spent a day with a highly gifted astrologer, giving generously of her skills. This is a must for anyone new to Astro*Carto*Graphy, and probably a must for many others besides." |
| Mike Harding
Astrological Journal Full text of review |
Lynn Bell
Part One: Planetary Threads. Lynn’s innovative exploration of
the patterns of thinking, feeling and behaviour which run back through
generations is enhanced by her unique adaptation of the genogram (a map
utilised in family therapy) to highlighting particular planetary placements
and aspects that recur in families. Her often dramatic case material, presented
in fascinating detail, is rich and revealing, and we are gradually offered
a profound vision of the intricately woven tapestry of the family matrix
from which we spring, and the ways in which we repeat – or transform –
the astrological and psychological inheritance which each of us carries.
Part Two: Siblings and Friends. The 3rd and 11th as relationship
houses are often ignored or trivialised in astrological texts, but this
seminar reveals the depth and importance of these two houses. An exploration
of the enormous power of sibling relationships is enhanced by historical
and contemporary case material as well as audience contributions, and the
ancient but innovative idea of the 11th house as the bonus daimon, and
of friends as the carriers of or catalysts for individual destiny, is presented
with revealing insight.
Together, these two seminars present a new perspective on relationships
within the family and amongst friends – those “nonromantic” bonds which
are so often either overlooked or overloaded with too much emphasis on
pathology. This volume offers refreshing and exciting new perspectives
and new practical tools for the astrological student and practitioner.
Part One: The Composite Chart. There is little current astrological literature available on the composite chart. This seminar explores the profound concept of relationship as an independent entity with its own nature and destiny, and focuses in depth on the meaning of various composite placements. The composite is then examined in relation to the charts of the two individuals in a relationship, revealing the impact the relationship has on each of them as well as the effect they in turn have on the relationship. A study of the progressed composite, and the meaning of planets transiting the composite, is developed through case material as well as examples from the seminar group. No relationship can be understood fully through synastry alone, and this seminar offers many new insights and techniques through which to enhance our understanding of the mystery of human interaction.
Part Two: The Eternal Triangle. The painful experience of a love triangle is one which occurs in virtually all lives, although the “third point” of the triangle is not always a human one. This seminar explores the triangle from several different perspectives: the early family triangle which, if unconscious and unresolved, produces profound repercussions in adult relationship life; power and defensive triangles, meant to avoid rather than experience deep relationship; triangles in pursuit of the unobtainable, often masking creative or spiritual needs; and triangles which embody the unlived life of the participants. This seminar deals with a difficult subject in compassionate but honest terms, presenting the triangle as a means of personal growth and transformation, and offering us greater understanding of the compulsive patterns which so often occur in our own lives.
This volume is the long-awaited companion to Darby’s earlier CPA Press volume, Water and Fire, completing her dynamic and imaginative exploration of the four astrological elements.
Part One: Earth. Beginning with the importance of the earth rituals of archaic cultures, this seminar goes on to examine in depth the nature and meaning of the element of earth, covering in a richly poetic but thorough and comprehensive way not only planetary placements in the three earthy signs, but also the qualities and attributes of the earthy planetary rulers. The complexity and subtlety of earth is further explored through an analysis of the chart of Teilhard de Chardin, the remarkable Christian mystic and scientist who in his own life managed to integrate two apparently disparate yet intimately connected dimensions of earth which form the great paradox of this element – its rationality and respect for facts, and its profound sense of the magic and transpersonal mystery inherent in the heart of material reality.
Part Two: Air. The element of Air is often mistakenly thought to be “merely” rational. In this seminar Darby takes us on an extraordinarily imaginative flight into the upper regions of the mind, exploring first the meaning and nature of air, and then examining planetary placements in the three airy signs and the attributes and mythology of the airy planetary rulers – which, according to traditional astrology, each govern both an earthy and an airy sign. The fluid and effervescent spirit of air is further revealed through an examination of the chart of the great poet W. B. Yeats, whose vision, fertility of ideas, and love of beauty in form and idea portray the essential nature of this most elusive of the astrological elements.
The seminars included in this fascinating volume deal with the theme
of astrology¹s use as a tool of global prediction over the centuries
especially as part of a religious vision of the "end of days". Human beings
have always been preoccupied with whether and when the world will end,
now no less than in Babylonian and medieval times.
In its earliest form, astrology was employed not for the individual,
but for the state and its ruler, indicating times of triumph and defeat,
flowering and disaster. The millennarian world-view has not left us, and
the fascination and panic surrounding the eclipse of August 1999, the dawn
of the year 2000, and the great conjunction of Jupiter and Saturn in May
2000 reflect our continuing preoccupation with
celestial events and their portents. Every student of astrology can
benefit from an understanding of astrology¹s application to historical
cycles, and its inextricable links with those visions of the destiny of
the world which still dominate, albeit unconsciously, the ways in which
we approach the future.
