The Archetypal Imagination (Volume 8) (Carolyn and Ernest Fay Series in Analytical Psychology) Archetypal Imagination Volume 8: Carolyn and Ernest Fay Series in Analytical Psychology

James Hollis leads readers to reflect on our innate human desire for meaning and connection to a world beyond our own limitations with the words, "What we wish to know, and most desire, remains unknowable and lies beyond our grasp." In his book, The Archetypal Imagination, Hollis explores the significance of the archetypal imagination from a Jungian perspective. He argues that the ability of the human mind to create vivid images that transcend our rational and emotional capacities is what brings culture and spirituality into existence.

By referencing the works of poets and philosophers, Hollis emphasizes the importance of depth experience, meaning, and connection to a realm beyond our own. In addition to our biological and social instincts, humans possess spiritual instincts, manifested through the images we create in our dreams, myths, and religious traditions. Drawing inspiration from Rainer Maria Rilke's Duino Elegies, Hollis uses literary examples to illustrate the concept of the archetypal imagination. He also examines a series of paintings by Nancy Witt to highlight the significance of embodying depth experience.

With access to the power of the archetypal imagination, we are encouraged to summon the courage to approach the world with fresh eyes, letting go of outdated identities and defenses. This opens up the possibility for a radical reimagining of both the self and the world we inhabit. In conclusion, Hollis invites readers to explore and embrace the immense potential that lies within the archetypal imagination. An open-access, full-text edition of the book can be found at http://oaktrust.library.tamu.edu/handle/1969.1/85764.

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