A square places planets in conflicting elements—fire against water, earth against air. They share a modality (both want to act, or both want to hold, or both want to change) but disagree about how. This creates persistent tension.

The square refuses to be ignored. Unlike the opposition's back-and-forth, the square demands resolution through action. It's uncomfortable enough to motivate change but not so overwhelming that it paralyzes. This is productive friction.

Squares build strength over time. Each time you navigate the tension consciously, you develop capacity. The discomfort doesn't disappear, but your ability to work with it grows.