Ruled by the sun, Leos are known for having fiery personalities that draw people in. While confidence and bravery are the main tenets of the Leo demeanor, this can also lead to a stubborn streak. Often natural-born leaders, Leos in positions of power will run the show with passion, creativity, and warmth. Whether your birthday makes you a Leo or you’re born on the other side of the astrological pond, we can all channel a bit of that energy as Leo season rolls around.
“Now is not the time…” by Rupi Kaur
From the bestselling collection the sun and her flowers, Kaur’s “Now is not the time…” calls on readers to use their voice. The short poem is a reminder to never shy away from taking up space and claiming what is rightfully yours. The courage and roar of the lion-esque Leo can help us in this endeavor.
“Lions” by Sandra McPherson
“Lions don’t need your help,” Sandra McPherson opens in this poem. “Lions” stands in awe of the sheer power of the lion’s nature. It analyzes the relationships between pack members, describing their social and sexual behavior—from a distance. “A visible lion is a safe lion, / But one should never feel safe,” she writes “because almost always there is something one can’t see.” The magic, mystery, and strength McPherson observes in the lion is well-suited for the Leo’s energy.
“Take Back Your Power” by Lang Leav
In “Take Back Your Power,” poet Lang Leav encourages readers to live with the power of the Leo by letting go of the past. Passionate and warm, Leos live and thrive in the present. They make decisions based on the here and now. They have the confidence to shake off past hurts. Embrace that energy this Leo season to make the most of the present.
“Cons and One Pro to Being Extra” by Darrien Case
From Kansas City-based poet Darrien Case’s debut collection, The Sky Has Full Lips, comes a witty and humorous take on how it feels to have a larger-than-life personality. With a balance of modern references and meaningful metaphors, Case displays the triumphs and tribulations of being an extrovert. “Con: my personality is only available in XXXL,” he writes. He goes on, “the love I can give / will last until the end / of earth’s time.”
“Magnificat. Brave Cat at Snifter Fishbowl” by George Starbuck
Form and shape take on a new meaning in this poem by George Starbuck. “Magnificat. Brave Cat at Snifter Fishbowl” paints the image of a housecat in terms as large as a lion. With short, staccato lines and unpredictable word choice, the poem puts readers inside the head of a predator—seeing, acting, and reacting faster than thought.
“Lady Lazarus” by Sylvia Plath
From her posthumous collection, Ariel, the iconic and unflinching “Lady Lazarus” stands side-by-side with the resilience and ferocity of the Leo. Plath lays it all out on the table in this poem, expressing her internal rage and pain without restraint. Often argued as Plath’s best poem, “Lady Lazarus” is strong enough to stand the test of time.
