Transference, the transcendent function, and transcendence

Journal/Book: J Anal Psychol. 1997; 42: 11 New Fetter Lane, London, England EC4P 4EE. Routledge. 119-138.

Abstract: People in analysis come into direct contact with the transcendent - that which surpasses not only our ego consciousness but the whole psyche - through the transcendent function working in the transference-countertransference field. Reductive and synthetic methods of interpretation of transference, in both objective and subjective levels of meaning, inaugurate moving the ego out of center stage into the process of relating to the Self. The transcendent function is the means of enlarging psychic space in the transference field to make room for coinciding opposites and a 'creative solution' that arises from their conversation. That solution, or set of symbols, addresses us with such compelling authority that Jung likens it to 'the voice of God'. A clinical case illustrates the connection of transference, the transcendent function, and the experience of the transcendent which, I believe, we must identify as such in order to go on relating to it.

Note: Article Ulanov AB, 201 W 77TH St, 15D, New York,NY 10024 USA

Keyword(s): transference; transcendent function; transcendent; symbol; sign; opposites; Self; interpretation; objective psyche; ego

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