As an "outer planet" in astrology, Pluto packs a huge wallop.  You can't hide from this Great Transformer and you can't escape its relentless actions. 

Although all the planetary energies in astrology have constructive and destructive expressions, Pluto is the planet that very definitely polarizes at either extreme.  That's quite the stimulus then, for getting on the good side of this planet.

Today, we'll continue the discussion we started on Pluto in my last article where I gave a general esoteric understanding of the planet by considering celestial and mythological metaphors for its astrological energy.  In today's discussion, I want to delve into Plutonian power -- and the ways this power can either ignite our creativity to strangle us with over-control.

Nuclear power — The Plutonian metaphor

Pluto is one of two planet's ruling nuclear energy (the other is Uranus).  Those familiar with this type of energy know it comes in two flavors — fission and fusion.

Fission involves splitting the atom and its byproduct is toxic radioactive waste that destroys those exposed to it in painful, debilitating ways.  Atom bombs are the stuff of fission.

In contrast, fusion is the energy source of the stars and it involves merging hydrogen and oxygen atoms together.  Its primary byproduct is water, a life-giving substance necessary to survival. 

Thus, we can summarize fission versus fusion this way,

Fission = Destruction.

Fusion = Creation.

And yes, it's true that nuclear fusion generates some radioactive waste.  However, it's a fraction to that of nuclear fission, both in terms of quantity produced and the radioactive life span. 

Pluto’s expression in our lives

If we continue to use nuclear power as the metaphor for Pluto, then what does that mean in our lives.  Does that mean that wherever Pluto is in our nativity that we live toxic lives?

You can build a rich friendship with Pluto but it's going to take persistence on your part.  Just remember, though, Pluto also rules buried wealth so if you're willing to dig for it, you’ll find its vein in your life and its riches will flow to you.

The secret in choosing how to express this potent planet.  The idea I’m about to express originated with Amanda Owen, one of my favorite astrologers, and it’s an idea to which I added my own twist.

Destruction versus Creativity

If you choose to express Pluto a fission-like way, then you’ll bring destruction to yourself and others and leave toxicity in your wake. 

However, if you choose to live effectively, then you’re better choice is to express Pluto in a fusion-like way, giving it creative expression and amassing life sustenance as its by-product.

Amanda describes Pluto as a continuum between control and creativity, with 100% of either at the extreme ends.  The more you seek to maintain control, the less energy you have available for creativity.  Conversely, the more you allow your creativity to flow, the less need you have to control.

The ultimate goal is Empowerment

The ultimate goal of Pluto is always, always, always Power.  No doubt there are folks out there making yucky faces at the idea of the P word and that’s because so many folks misuse power that it’s gotten a bad name.

Why does anyone seek to control another, though?  It’s because they feel a lack of their own power so they try to compensate by taking another’s.

However, with Pluto, you always have the choice of what kind of power you’ll manifest (and BTW, “choice” is a very Pluto concept).

The ultimate goal of Pluto is self-empowerment — and not grabbing it from others.  And guess what!  A dandy by-product of living an empowered life is that you automatically tend to foster empowerment in others.

The reason why?  Because if you live a fusion-like life, then you have the metaphorical equivalent of the energy of the stars.  And if you can command that kind of power at your fingertips, then why would you need to take power from others. 

Guess what the by-product is of empowering others?  Opportunities for you to gain ever-greater levels of creativity.  That means your star just keeps growing stronger and burning brighter.

Cool, huh?

Closing thoughts

I'm going to let you digest the creativity versus control spectrum for a few days.  In my next article, I share a strategy I learned from Amanda Owen about how you can effectively use this demanding and intense planet.

Related articles:

Uranian Rebels versus Revolutionaries

A strategy to foster Pluto's creative urge

The Great Transformer -- Insights into the astrological Pluto's esoteric meaning