Mercury in the 12th House- The Artistic Mind
An individual with this placement will often believe that they are either lack intelligence and/or communication skills. This may come from an inability to fit into traditional education systems. Unless there are strong Gemini or Virgo placements, the individual will focus more on the ‘big picture’, rather than the details. This placement promotes an exceptional imagination, creativity and an ability to ‘think outside the box’. Unfortunately, others might not always appreciate this unique way of thinking. There is often an affinity with music, art, creative writing, photography, film and acting. These people are very visual learners, which gives them their potent artistic talents. There is also an exceptional ability to understand spiritual and philosophical concepts. The individual will often have a deep, complex and profound understanding of metaphysical ideas. Often, too they have the ability to explain the etheric, spiritual, emotional, and unseen aspects of life- everything that ordinarily can’t be communicated through logic and the restriction of words. Their art will often touch people on a very deep level, communicating unspoken truth.
If Mercury conjuncts the ascendant, communication will be less hidden, with dynamic speech, a quick wit and a talkative front. There may also be an upbeat nature, bordering on anxiety at times, as these individuals perceptively notice and absorb their surroundings. They will appear to be highly perceptive communicators with an energetic mind, however they will still often harbour doubts about their mental capabilities.
For most people with a 12th House Mercury, introspection is important. They do not feel compelled to speak or interact with others to a great deal, due to a focus on their intense and interesting mental landscape. The richness of their inner life allows them to escape the world, often drifting into imaginative daydreaming. The ‘real’ world can’t compete with the creativity and excitement of their imagination.
The challenge for people with a 12th house Mercury is to appreciate their unique way of thinking and communicating. Once they do this, they will be able to explore and utilise the full breadth of their artistic capabilities, choosing to share their beautiful vision with others, rather than constantly retreating within. Until they do this, there will be a sense that a part of them is missing, sometimes leading to a fixation on communication and mental pursuits. Most often this fixation will be on a painful sense of inadequacy, or occasionally on efforts to appear ‘smart’. Either way, it’s important that these people learn to accept and appreciate their distinctive abilities.
Heath Ledger
Mercury in Pisces in the 12th House
