From Library Journal
Since Jung's Man and His Symbols , several visual glossaries, from Eva Hangen's Symbols , Our Universal Language , to full-text studies by Joseph Campbell, have appeared. Drawing not only from nature, or objects, but sounds, odors, metaphors, gestures, myths, hybrid creatures, mazes, mystical gardens, mandalas, and celestial bodies Fontana (Univ. of Wales) offers the most comprehensive array yet. In this work, enhanced by over 300 color illustrations, he aims to stimulate interest and access to the symbolic world. The work is more than a simple reference tool; opening chapters reflect a Jungian slant that archetypes from the collective unconscious project the power of symbols found in art, meditation, and dreaming. Final chapters describe occult symbolic systems such as Kabbalah, alchemy, tarot, tantra, astrology, and I Ching. Highly recommended.
- Dara Eklund, Los Angeles P.L.Copyright 1994 Reed Business Information, Inc.
Product Description
This credible, highly readable, and vividly illustrated encyclopedic volume traces the origins and evolution of hundreds of symbols and symbol systems that have impacted human culture, history, art, and psychology since the dawn of time. From the I Ching and the Chakras to the Tarot and the Zodiac; from mythical beasts and magical numbers to heraldic shields and geometric shapes, author and psychologist David Fontana identifies symbols from around the world and draws upon his experience with dream workshops and meditation to help readers deepen their understanding and appreciation of these intriguing icons. Relevant, compelling, and visually appealing,
The Secret Language of Symbols is a unique and practical reference tool, as well as an inspiring guide to the images that give meaning to our everyday lives.
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