THE SYMBOLISM OF THE SNAKE
The Snake, and its complementary sign, the Dragon, together form the House of Mystery; but whereas the Dragon is the gaudy magician, the Snake is the contemplative mystic. A correlative of this mysticism, however, is secrecy; and the Snake is closely associated with plots and counter-plots, scandal and corruption, the expression ‘long snake’ in Chinese meaning ‘intrigue’. On the more positive side, the Snake is regarded as the guardian of treasure. Indeed, some Chinese believe it to be unlucky to kill a snake which enters the house, as it could be the bringer of good fortune.
YEARS OF THE SNAKE and their associated elements 
4 Feb 1905 – 24 Jan 1906 Wood
23 Jan 1917 – 10 Feb l9l8 Fire
10 Feb 1929 – 29 Jan 1930 Earth
27 Jan 1941 – 14 Feb 1942 Metal
14 Feb 1953 – 2 Feb 1954 Water
2 Feb 1965 – 20 Jan 1966 Wood
18 Feb 1977 – 6 Feb 1978 Fire
6 Feb 1989 – 26 Jan 1990 Earth
THE YEAR OF THE SNAKE
This is a time to re-consider the course of events which began in the previous and frenetic Dragon Year. It may mean that now one should back away from increasingly tense situations, and review schemes which may be on the point of running off course.
There will be back-biting and malice in the air, rather perversely due to the fact that this is generally a stable, calm and peaceful year, with congenital meddlers having little else to occupy them. In personal matters, it would certainly be unwise to engage in any kind of activity which would provide ammunition for purveyors of gossip.
The Year of the Snake is also a dangerous one for governments, who can be overthrown not only by revolution or the ballot box, but by the machinations of factions determined to embarrass those in power. But whatever political conspiracies there maybe, the coming of the Snake Year is likely to indicate an improvement in the financial position.
Socially, the period is marked by an increased awareness of the needs of the environment: and a general war against the ravages of industrial encroachment on to the countryside will be matched in the cities by endeavors to improve the appearance of public places.
Generally, it is a time for refinement and artistic progress, revealed in fashion by a welcome trend towards grace, elegance, and economy of line, rather than the garish, startling decorating architectural elements, sculpture, etc., in a variety of colors, which are often a feature of Dragon-style.
HOW EACH ANIMAL FARES IN THE SNAKE-YEAR
The Rat
This is a year of limited progress for those born in the Year of the Rat. Matters will proceed much more quietly during this year than in the last; and indeed, such advances as are achieved will be the results of careful planning in the past. It is important to continue to save this year, for leaner days ahead.
The Ox
The Year of the Snake is a splendidly successful time for the usually staid Ox-type. There are opportunities for social advancement, bringing a wide variety of new friends experiences: and business prospects are sound, with an additional sign of honor and recognition and for an achievement in some other field. For those thinking of marriage, the time is very auspicious, with a likelihood of younger partner.
The Tiger
This year will not be easy for the Tiger-personality who is used to making headway without much opposition. Obstacles are likely to present themselves in the form of bureaucratic hindrances and legal tangles. Money may not be readily available, and there could be undue expense involving other people, perhaps through assisting members of the family, or an illicit affair which will prove costly. The year will not be without its anxieties, and health may suffer as a result. On the positive side, some unexpected financial gain is indicated.
The Hare
This year augurs well for the naturally cautious Hare. Careful budgeting and an eye for value has ensured that the Hare has the resources to make some very shrewd business dealings. In personal relationships, however, the Hare is less careful and could well be the focus of gossip. However, the Hare cares not one whit.
The Dragon
This year, many of the Dragon’s more elaborate schemes and plans bear fruit, including those that were the object of derision when first mooted. The proof of considerable investments lies in their returns, which will vindicate the Dragon’s faith in all such projects. While fully satisfying, the year will lack any great excitement.
The Snake
This is the peak time for people born in the Year of the Snake, the stage is set for a grand entrance. The Snake’s ambitions not so much monetary or romantic, but personal status; and here at last, comes the acclaim and recognition which has been elusive for so long. The Snake will be introduced to people of high standing, and those in the public eye will be accorded the most favorable criticism. Finances should be more stable than before, and business prospects are extremely sound. Career women will find this a very successful period.
The Horse
Is only a moderate year for those born in the Year of the Horse, and progress may seem slow. It is a period of stability rather than expansion, allowing the Horse-type an opportunity to establish firm foundations for future dealings. There are no remarkably outstanding business projects and romantic affairs are marred by jealousy. On the positive side, the time is favorable for making improvements in the home.
The Sheep
This is a happy year for the Sheep-personality; one in which events go well in all spheres of activity. Travelling with a group for a specific purpose, such as a research project or a convention, is likely, as is involvement in committee or voluntary work. Those involved in the arts, particularly music, will find this an extremely rewarding and creative period.
The Monkey
The Monkey has to be particularly careful this year. Methods which have worked successfully in the past may have outlived their usefulness, and the Monkey could find formidable opposition in both business and romance. Financial deals fall below expectations, and an outsider maybe given the promotion that had been expected. Personal relationships suffer, and an infidelity may lead to a break-up.
The Rooster
For those born in the Year of the Rooster, this will prove to be an exceptionally successful year, since the Snake shares many of the Rooster’s own preferences and priorities. Normally outgoing and forthright, the Rooster may decide to adopt many of the methods used by the Snake – discretion, tact, confidentiality – to make a considerable advance into the opposition’s territory. Romantic affairs are highlighted this year, whilst finances are much more secure.
The Dog
This is a moderate year for the Dog-personality, with the promise of financial security, but with a few worries still standing in the way. Fortunately, the position is becoming increasingly stable. Personal relationships jog along unremarkably. This would be an ideal period to start planning ahead, or to save for some ambitious project which can be put into effect next year. For the moment, however, large-scale projects are best left to one side.
The Pig
Domestic bliss is rudely shaken this year by a number of unfortunate episodes. A previously close-knit family may suffer disruption due to certain members failing into disgrace, or being the target of gossip and scandal. This will not unnaturally cause great anxiety to any caring parents born in the Year of the Pig. Health to may be an area for worry and it may be necessary to heat up some savings. However, the pig is resilient and robust and will as ever cope with this.
