For TractJM
As Minderwiz noted, you cannot treat a solar return chart as a natal chart in terms of how you read it. And, it is not an independant chart. In fact, it is a cyclic chart whose cycle starts with the natal chart. Let me explain this as a basis for talking further about solar returns.
Each solar return chart has an MC position that is about 90 degrees and 3 signs further ahead in the zodiac than the previous solar return chart. The chart's Sun position shifts clockwise about 3 houses each year. The fact that these changes are consistent and regular marks these charts as having a cyclic relationship. If we trace these consistent changes backwards, we arrive back at the natal chart.
Because solar returns are cyclic charts we need to pay special attention to the angles of these charts. We do this with all cyclic charts. Whether we use circular charts to depict a cycle or a sine wave diagram to depict a chart, the angles of the chart -- or the peaks and valleys of the sine wave diagram -- are where the changes take place.
So, when looking at a solar return, consider the following:
** Give great importance to any planet that is close to an angle. Assign less importance, as a general rule, to any planet that is remote from an angle.
** Consider the meaning of the angle involved. The Ascendant is where you live, act, react, have an attitude. The Descendant is where you interact, find those you like or don't like. The MC is where you publically express your goals, hang your reputation. The IC is where you change things and set off in new directions.
** When a transiting planet is at an angle, look for the natal planet's aspect groupings and how that grouping typically plays out in your life. What you can expect from this solar return will be related to how the natal planet is typically experienced.
** When a natal planet is at an angle, look to where its transiting version is. That will give you a clue as to the "house expression" is likely to play out.
** Some solar returns may show a natal chart angle at or near a solar return angle. You need to blend the meanings of the natal angle and solar return angle in terms of their meanings.
This is enough for now. Have fun with your solar returns. AND, there is for me one important rule to follow if you want me to comment on your solar return chart: don't give me the chart, just give me the natal data and the year of the solar return. I like to cast my own charts. Dave