Satan’s Mouth or Font of Magic What Is It about the Anus?

Abstract

ABSTRACT This article explores the archetypal aspects of dream images of the anus and the alimentary canal including their psychological and psychosocial significance as a site of psychic coniunctio. Freudian anal regression theory and Jungian alchemical interpretations are discussed in both their illumination and obfuscation of these symbols as well as their expression of a possible heterosexist ideology. Positive meanings of the anal-coniunctio union, reflecting on patient dreams and fantasy material concerning anal penetration and its possible psychic significance, are described. The author argues that the disavowal of the anal-coniunctio union is an instance of othering that precludes fertile considerations.