I've always known them as Earth in the North, Water in the East, Fire in the South, and Air in the West.
Some traditions may have different interpretations.
Proof positive there are many paths in Paganism
In our Circle we use Earth (North), Air (East), Fire (South), Water (West) and Spirit (Center).
ANSWER
Well in Older traditions the North is Earth because it is the mother earth and the ground and firtiliy (the harvest). The East is for air. Wisdom, understanding. South is for Fire. Passion and determination and loyalty. And West is for Water, compassion, insperation, and beauty.