James Hillman R.I.P.
Psychologist James Hillman died yesterday, from complications of bone cancer. He was aged 85.
The New York Times obituary ends with this quote from 1976:
Some people in desperation have turned to witchcraft, magic and occultism, to drugs and madness, anything to rekindle imagination and find a world ensouled. But these reactions are not enough. What is needed is a revisioning, a fundamental shift of perspective out of that soulless predicament we call modern consciousness.
However else Hillman has inspired me—and he’s inspired me very deeply—I just have to admire someone for whom witchcraft, magic, occultism, drugs and madness are “not enough”. Obviously he didn’t take the path of trying all of these and going through the other side. And obviously I don’t agree with him if he’s dismissing them outright (I don’t think he is). But it’s an important message for all of us mad druggie occultists. Something more is necessary.
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we dont see you enough Gyrus. I think you ‘hide’ away too much. you should do some videos. talks.
where are you?
Juliano - 29th October 2011 @ 15:08
I’m in Finland. Nice to be missed!
Gyrus - 29th October 2011 @ 18:00
I saw James talk in London. He had a very reassuring presence like a wise fool. His writing does what poetry does. I doubt he´ll be far away really.
Meabh - 30th October 2011 @ 20:28
May the gods bless James Hillman, the man was coming from quite some place. He gave me the freedom to think certain ideas and added many more to whatever ideasi already had. His work on dreams, on soul, on therapy, on suicide, on the necessity of sickness, of the poetic basis of mind, of power, imagination, conducted in a way that inspired total integrity and respect will continue to inspire those who find them. I think the most important thinker of modern times.
toby chown - 3rd November 2011 @ 22:33