An Aesthetic of Black. (2nd April 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Fidyk, Alexandra
• Is Part Of: Psychological perspectives. Volume 59:Number 2(2016)
• Page Start: 177
• Page End: 190
• Publication Date: 2016-04-02
• Subjects: Psychoanalysis -- Periodicals; Psychology -- Periodicals; Jungian Theory -- Periodicals; Psychoanalysis -- Periodicals; Psychoanalytic Theory -- Periodicals; Psychology -- Periodicals; 150.1954
• DOI: 10.1080/00332925.2016.1170466
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0033-2925

Abstract

Abstract : A hermeneutic and poetic exploration of suffering offers a new perspective, or perhaps an ancient one, to understand beauty: an aesthetic of black. Through mythological and alchemical amplification, we are invited to revision a description of descent as one that is both beautiful and good—or at least one that leads to both. Descent and its accompanying nigredo, the initial stage of alchemy, have been considered the most negative, difficult, and dangerous of life's unfolding movements. Read in its characteristic blackening, the depth of ice, isolation, and cold beneath the common fire, intensity, and heat of hell is described as a way toward transformation—a glimpse that is shared through a personal story that is inset within the collective narrative. Descent has also been understood as a journey to the land of the dead, to the ancestors, and to the darkness of humanity—a depth that requires the softening and release of ego's centrality in life. This place is contrasted to the night sea journey because it does not seek to strengthen the ego; it seeks its unthinkable dissolution. Thereby a case is made for enduring this experience as a source of and for creativity— nigredo is an essential part of life and may well be transformed through an aesthetic sensibility. In facing death, in all its literal and metaphorical challenges, surrender is often the only course available, followed by learning to die—both of which enable a symbolic third to evolve into a vital psychological reality. In this way suffering serves and is seen as a way of knowing and a way to be ethically in life.