Tomorrow, 18 September at 8:41am (at least by me in central Connecticut), the fixed star Procyon is crossing the mid-heaven line in an applying conjunction with the Moon.  As I’ve been working on developing a series of poems around the fixed stars like Cetus and like Spica and the Pleiades and Alcyone, it appears to be time for another such poem, for those who intend to work with this particular star.

The nature of the star is a little unclear from the literature I’ve consulted. Some seem to think of it as an unlucky star that brings initial success followed by disaster; others appear to be of the opinion that it is a giver of health, and of favor from gods, spirits, and mortals.  Also, some say that it brings loyalty and greater connection to friends and family. Several sources suggest that it is a breaker of enchantments and witchcrafts. I could do without the sudden disaster, myself, but the rest of that sounds pretty good.

Little Dog-star with your wiggling tail,
Procyon, preserver of worldly health,
confer upon me favor without fail —
and guard me from witchcraft and acts of stealth
which seek to claim power over my heart.
For you are like Mercury and Mars,
a clever herald and yet set apart
by marigold and agate in the stars
as bearing a warrior’s countenance.
Pennyroyal and buttercup both gleam
as great gifts of your spirit’s sustenance,
reflecting love of your life-giving stream.
Procyon, by your rooster and three maids,
accept our praise; dispense your bount’ous aids.