The Shadow

Tuesday 14 March 2023

In nature, physical shadows are created when light is blocked. Psychological shadows are created when awareness is blocked.

“The Shadow” is a metaphor used to describe any parts of ourselves we are ashamed to admit or afraid to encounter. Some people have a creativity shadow—they think they should always be practical. Others have an anger shadow—they think they should always be nice.

You might be so worried about people thinking you’re selfish that you neglect your own needs and desires. Or maybe you hide your talents because you feel afraid of judgment and criticism.—Britt Frank

(The shadow traces back to Carl Jung obviously, who I think I dislike for being hopelessly unscientific.)