ohikendoit.: October 2013

Reading the Man and His Symbols by C.G. Jung has been a pure pleasure and meaningful experience- perhaps to the level of synchronicity. As much as I appreciate the previous works of Jung, number of texts written by Jung's pupils were intriguing as well in their various applications of the concept of connection between unconscious and symbolism; ancient myths, visual arts, and individual analysis.

Examination of Man and his Symbols is in effect an examination of man's relation to his own unconscious- step towards the process of individuation, which Jung believed is the essence to become whole, integrated, calm, fertile, and happy.

"For most people the years of youth are characterized by a state of gradual awakening in which the individual slowly becomes aware of the world and of himself. Childhood is a period of great emotional intensity, and child's earliest dreams often manifest in symbolic forms the basic structure of the psyche, indicating how it will later shape the destiny of the individual concerned."

"The only adventure that is still worthwhile for modern man lies in the inner realm of the unconscious psyche... Trying to give the living reality of the Self a constant amount of daily attention is like trying to live simultaneously on two levels or in two different worlds."

"An accelerated maturation to an independent and responsible manliness. It represents an initiation into the reality of outer life, a strengthening of the ego, and with this a completion of the first half of the individuation process. The second half- which is the establishment of a right relationship between the ego and the self- still lies ahead."