Why the Repressed Returns? / by Alexander Lyadov

The phrase “repressed will return” is linked to Sigmund Freud’s theory. Shame, fear, or disgust can push a desire, memory, or feeling out of consciousness. You shove the foreign away into space, close the door, and finally breathe a sigh of relief: “Phew, I am safe.”

But only a very naive person would think this. The fact that he experiences fear means he has a weak understanding of this phenomenon. Therefore, he cannot predict the behavior of the "alien."

Destroying what you don’t understand is not easy. It seems like you’ve cut off its head, but suddenly two more grow in its place. Or, a hundred years later, you discover the eggs it left behind in hiding.

By the time a person realizes the danger, it’s already too late. The parasite has already entered the host's body, waiting for the moment to break through his chest. The person doesn’t live; he functions as a feeding ground or cocoon.

Addiction, compulsiveness, obsession, phobia, mania, madness, soul loss—there are many names, but the essence is the same. The personality doesn’t belong to itself. The alien has returned and taken over.

But ask yourself—why has the repressed returned? What does it really want? Why is it seeking revenge on you? Why does it need you specifically? Could it be that its life revolves around you?

Don’t be fooled by the aggression of the alien. A poorly socialized dog bites because it was never taught to play. The rejected part of the personality longs to be included. You, too, have felt that vague sadness: “Ah, something is missing. But what?!”

It’s so sad, it’s almost funny. Your endless conflict with your alien side illustrates just how much you need each otherThe most fruitful synthesis comes from opposing beginnings.

Since ancient times, humanity’s main task has remained unchanged—how to make contact with the Unthinkable within, so as to renew oneself, not burn out.

Sincerely yours,

-Alexander


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