Abstract
ABSTRACT The unexpected invention of a game with my grandchildren provided a new way of thinking about the nature of such unpredictable moments in therapy. The experience brought together a number of ideas, considered through the view of language taken by Merleau-Ponty where the chaotic primitive layers that pervade language are seen as having primacy over the rules of linguistics such as those set out by Saussure. Saussure is seen as providing a way of understanding linguistic structure whilst at the same time opening a number of ambiguities that then allow a way for thinking about language differently through Merleau-Ponty’s emphasis on the usage of language (la parole) as opposed the structural aspects of language (la langue). Initially, Winnicott’s ideas around the ‘spontaneous gesture’ are utilised to help show how this kind of unpredictable expression appears as something alive. Merleau-Ponty then shows how language as gestural phenomena takes hold of us through our bodies. Further questions then arise about the method in therapeutic practice and research. Here, it is argued that when the method is given primacy over experience, we are in a position that seeks the already known, which will not, therefore, permit some new expression to break through.
Published Version
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
