by Michael Gurian
Western culture, contends Gurian, discourages fathers from nurturing their children and freely expressing paternal love. As a result, sons often feel alienated from their fathers and, in turn, from themselves; this, in Gurian’s view, negatively affects their relationships with their lovers, spouses, children and co-workers. In this addition to the growing body of “men’s movement” literature, he uses myths and Jungian archetypes to explore the father-son legacy, advising adult sons how to heal the filial relationship’s wounds by embarking on a “heroic quest”. By finally forgiving their fathers, he argues, men can transform themselves from insecure, immature “princes” into strong yet nurturing “kings.” The symbolism and numerous references to legend and psychological theory may put some readers off this Swarm, sensitive and insightful book.
