A person with Mercury in Cancer understands and receives information subtly and instinctively. The memory is often highly retentive; it is also likely that they absorb information from the environment. There is often a strong artist’s sense for visual imagery, poetry and music. Mercury here is an attentive and sensitive communicator, but the conveying of facts is often coloured with emotion and it may be difficult to articulate ideas and perceptions objectively. The individual may have an interest in history, antiques and the continuity of the past. Mercury in Cancer learns best when the focus is on human needs and feelings, many are natural psychologists and it often does not require a professional degree. A sympathetic view is usually given freely; they listen and respond well to the feelings of others.The mind is focused on home, family and personal issues, and they focus a great deal on safety and security. Sometimes the views are quite traditional and conversations always reflect back to the past, so forward thinking cause’s apprehension and worry. Mercury in Cancer also has a tendency to take differing opinions as a personal attack or criticism. The imagination can work overtime, all too often negatively. Views are also expressed cautiously and new perspectives appear threatening until the individual has had time to become more familiar and comfortable with an idea. Verbal expression tends to be defensive, protective and highly reactive; sometimes they appear withdrawn and hardly talk at all.
The individual is a sensitive and gentle speaker and may talk about family, security, care and emotional states frequently. Usually they remember what people say and often bring up information from the past with ease. Those with Mercury here write imaginatively, drawing the reader into his or her private world. Words can be comforting, assuring and familiar. Mercury in Cancer has a way of transporting us back to childhood. Thought patterns are often influenced by the past and impressions received from the environment.
Irish Play writer George Bernard Shaw, was born a Gemini rising (writing and communication) with Sun and Venus in Leo in the 3rd house (writing and communication) and had Mercury in Cancer in his 2nd house (chart ruler). George co-founded the school for social economics, which conducts research in accounting and finance (2nd) anthropology, history, psychology and sociology. Shaw examined marriage, government, health care and class privilege.
