Page:Psychology of the Unconscious (1916).djvu/291

 CHAPTER V

SYMBOLISM OF THE MOTHER AND OF REBIRTH

The vision following the creation of the hero is described by Miss Miller as a "throng of people." This representation is known to us from dream interpretation as being, above all, the symbol of mystery.[1] Freud thinks that this choice of symbol is determined on account of its possibility of representing the idea. The bearer of the mystery is placed in opposition to the multitude of the ignorant. ''The possession of the mystery cuts one off from intercourse with the rest of mankind.'' For a very complete and smooth rapport with the surroundings is of great importance for the management of the libido and the ''possession of a subjectively important secret generally creates a great disturbance''. It may be said that the whole art of life shrinks to the one problem of how the libido may be freed in the most harmless way possible. Therefore, the neurotic derives special benefit in treatment when he can at last rid himself of his various secrets. The symbol of the crowd of people, chiefly the streaming and moving mass, is, as I have often seen, substituted for the great excitement in the unconscious, especially in persons who are outwardly calm.