MERMAID / MERMAN

1- Traditionally, the mermaid or merman belongs to the sea as well as being able lo exist on land. This symbolically represents an ability to be deeply emotional and also entirely practical. Until these two separate parts are properly integrated, the human being cannot fully exist in either realm.

2- Mermaids and mermen arc feminine and masculine representations of the link between the darker forccs which we do not necessarily understand and the conscious self. Many stories exist of the human’s attempt to mate or link with these creatures of the sea. Most end in hurt and distress for one party or the other. This is an example of how difficult it is to integrate the two sides of our nature.

3- Each individual must bring about integration between the spiritual self and the emotional self before there can be wholeness.

Psychological / emotional perspective: Mermaids and mermen are feminine and masculine representations of the link between the darker forces – which we do not necessarily understand – and the conscious self. In dreams the mermaid epitomizes how difficult it is to integrate the two sides of our nature. This lack of integration can result in capriciousness.

The merman, however, is said to be less ‘intrigued’ by humans so, therefore, represents unification, but in a way that is more isolated.

A mermaid or merman is a double symbol of our instinctual life because (1) a merperson is half animal, and (2) a merperson is at home in the water, a potent symbol of the unconscious. So a dream communication from a mermaid or merman is a message from a deeper part of ourselves.