Women Who Run With the Wolves

After describing the familial and cultural obstacles that modern women face in expressing their wisdom and creative energy, the Jungian analyst unfolds a mesmerizing group of myths and folktales that reveals feminine power not often encouraged or seen by others. Helping women move beyond the expected roles of nurturer or innocent child, these stories fill the air with courage and potential--not to dominate others but to become open to one's gifts and to give them tangible life in the world. The arresting sensuality of the author's voice adds fitting intensity to her message that authentic living requires that a woman unconditionally accept her passions and sexual drives, do the work of cultivating them, and protect them from being squelched or subverted by others. T.W. (c) AudioFile 2010, Portland, Maine

January 1, 1992
Folklore, fairy tales and dream symbols are called on to help restore women's neglected intuitive and instinctive abilities in this earthy first book by a Jungian analyst. According to Estes, wolves and women share a psychic bond in their fierceness, grace and devotion to mate and community. This comparison defines the archetype of the Wild Woman, a female in touch with her primitive side and able to rely on gut feelings to make choices. The tales here, from various cultures, are not necessarily about wolves; instead, they illuminate fresh perspectives on relationships, self-image, even addiction. An African tale of twins who baffle a man represents the dual nature of woman; from the Middle East, a story about a threadbare but secretly magic carpet shows society's failure to look beyond appearances. Three brief, ribald stories advocate a playful, open sexuality; other examples suggest ways to deal with anger and jealousy. At times, Estes's commentary--in which she urges readers to draw upon and enjoy their Wild Woman aspects--is hyperbolic, but overall her widely researched study offers usable advice for modern women.