1st Edition
An Analytical Exploration of Love and Narcissism The Tragedy of Isolation and Intimacy
This book reflects the psychic wounds of narcissism from the perspective of Jungian analytical psychology. Oriented towards the richness and plurality of the psyche, it sheds light on clinical practice as well as the common and intricate issues of this personality type.
Narcissism is described as a grandiose sense of self, exhibitionistic, needing reassurance, but suffering in disturbed relationships. The perspective of Jungian analytical psychology expands the symbolism within narcissism. Clinical examples, dreams, the myth of Narcissus and Echo, and basic Jungian concepts move us further into the psyche. Topics covered are: what narcissism is and why it’s misunderstood, if narcissists are capable of love, and their perfectionist burden. It explores how to forge knowledge and emotional transformation with a narcissist in clinical treatment and all relationships.
Exploring this complex and intriguing phenomenon, the book appeals to readers and therapists from various fields including psychoanalysis, general psychology, gender studies, culture, and sociology.
1. The Mythological Beginnings 2. The Vagaries of Narcissism 3. Emotion and Desire Obstructed by Envy 4. Emptiness and Boredom 5. The Body Talks – Can a Narcissist Listen? 6. Echo’s Tragedy – Narcissistic Isolation from Intimacy 7. Psychoanalysis and André Green’s Life and Death Narcissism 8. Narcissism in Jungian Thought 9. The Shadows of Love in Relationship 10. The Analytical Bridge to Self Through Cultural Diversity 11. The Nigredo of Now 12. Where Do We Go From Here? Can Narcissus and Echo Bloom into Love?
Biography
Susan E. Schwartz, PhD, trained in Switzerland as a Jungian analyst. A member of IAAP, a presenter at conferences, workshops, you tube channels, she has numerous journal articles and book chapters. Her previous books include An Exploration of the Puella Archetype; Imposter Syndrome and The ‘As-If’ Personality in Analytical Psychology; and The Absent Father Effect on Daughters. Her website is www.susanschwartzphd.com
"An Analytical Exploration of Love and Narcissism: The Tragedy of Isolation and Intimacy provides an excellent and most needed update of the theory of narcissism so relevant in today’s world. With a strong focus on the relational aspects of narcissism, and by giving the character Echo a well-deserved larger role than she has been given so far, Susan Schwartz provides a rich and inspiring addition to previous Jungian studies on narcissism – not least because of her cross-disciplinary focus. I find the book most interesting and highly commendable."
Misser Berg, Jungian Analyst, Denmark, President of the IAAP
"In her compelling new book, Susan Schwartz engages a depth exploration of the myth of Narcissus and Echo, bringing new insights to our understanding of the despair residing beneath the false self of the narcissist. She invites the reader into a compassionate perspective for the vulnerabilities of an ego disconnected from the Self, and clarifies the courage required for both therapist and patient to walk together through the intimate, tumultuous struggle that awaits the patient, caught between the longing wish to be seen, and the terrifying fear of that very thing."
Carolyn Bates, PhD, Jungian Analyst, co-editor of The Journal of Analytical Psychology
"This book is an essential reference for everyone who wants to understand narcissism, a fundamental issue in our contemporary society. Susan Schwartz is an experienced analyst and articulates Jungian concepts in a brilliant way!"
Alvaro Ancona de Faria, MD, psychiatrist, Jungian analyst, President of SBrPA in Brazil, and former member of the IAAP Executive Committee
