Tradition and originality in the transference: a Coleridgean commentary.

Full Abstract

Some of S.T. Coleridge's observations about 'the mind's self-experience of itself' and the nature of faith and trust are discussed in relation to the implicit tensions between 'tradition' (formal structure, received wisdom) and 'originality' (creativity, individuation), especially in the transference. The existential doubts of some analysands may undermine their confidence that their integrity will be fostered by the analytic relationship: so instead the trappings of 'tradition' (e.g. in the case of a trainee the assumption of a professionally endorsed status) may be appropriated as a spurious substitute for 'originality'. It is argued that an anticipatory 'faith', albeit initially rather cerebral, may be necessary to sustain the analytic endeavour until a more intimate, heartfelt 'trust' can release the potential for individuation. Further consideration is given to the 'analytic attitude' that might best facilitate this process, and to how sensitivity to these dynamics may inform one's reading of the transference.

Author information

Author/s: Meredith-Owen, William (W);

Journal and publication information

Publication Type: Biography; Historical Article; Journal Article

Journal: The Journal of analytical psychology (J Anal Psychol), published in England. (Language: eng)

Reference: 2009-Jun; vol 54 (issue 3) : pp 359-78

Dates: Created 2009/06/17; Completed 2009/09/03;

PMID: 19531125, status: MEDLINE (last retrieval date: 9/4/2009, IMS Date: )

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