Archetypes are not complex concepts. This is in contrast to what some would have you think. Let me explain why I refuse to subscribe to the notion that archetypes are complicated, by taking you through the following process:

Archetypes are representations of universally recognised patterns of thinking, feeling and behaving.

1. Patterns form themes: For example, betrayal and loyalty are themes represented by the Prostitute archetype.
2. Themes are the basis of stories: Now you know the themes, are you starting to catch the idea of The Story of the Prostitute?
3. Stories feature characters: In your mind’s eye, are images, or a sense, of the Prostitute starting to form?
4. Characters play roles: Can you sense or imagine how a prostitute thinks, feels and behaves?
5. Roles have scripts: Can you sense, imagine or mentally hear what a prostitute might say to you?
6. Scripts can be read: Are you starting to catch the words in the Prostitute’s script?

By now, you will be ready to read the archetype by deconstructing it. Test it out for yourself:

Think about the Prostitute archetype within the context of a concern you might have about betrayal and loyalty.

Brainstorm the positive and negative qualities or characteristics that come to mind when you think about the Prostitute archetype within the context of loyalty or betrayal.

• Negative: unethical; compromises personal values and principles, sells out self.
• Positive: ethical, principled, maintains personal honour.

Are you beginning to recognise how reading archetypes is not rocket science? And it’s certainly not a psychic activity. You’ve simply identified the script that’s driving you crazy at the moment. You’ve identified and named it. You’ve captured it, instead of being captured by it. You’ve started to Self-Author the archetype.

Archetypes can be used to represent your stories so that you gain insights into how to rectify the storylines that are not working in your best interests. How is the story of your romantic relationships working for you? And what about the story of your financial management? Then there’s the story of your career direction. And there’s a story behind each of your habits, including of your habitual ways of thinking, feeling and behaving. All of these stories may be good, bad and ugly. Here’s why your stories may be bad and ugly, why you need to be fully aware of them, and why you need to identify, read, and rectify your stories:

First, the bad news. If you are not aware, you will project your s*#t onto others. Long after you’re gone, those alive will avoid speaking about your unspeakable acts of destruction because you disowned and therefore projected your shadow material onto others to deal with, or to pass on yet again to the next generation.
Now, here’s the good news, and why you need to be aware of your archetypes as stories that provide insights into your shadow, dark and light. One key aspect of life’s purpose is to be a good ancestor. How? Usher your soul into life beyond death by living your life so well that you become a fond memory kept alive in the hearts and minds of those left behind. Having generated a personal history that makes a positive contribution to your family history means that when you leave this body and this planet, there are no stones left as unturned to trip up future generations.

Gail Goodwin, 2024

Every story has a script that can be read. You’ve just revealed a snippet from an unlimited script that tells the story of the Prostitute archetype. You’ve identified both sides of the story. Somewhere in the middle you’ll find your truth.

In the ancient tradition of alchemy, when you bring elements in opposition together, they are bound to unify. Transformation begins. Positive and negative forces coalesce because of a third, catalytic agent. That catalyst is your spirit.

Let the “magic” of archetypes do their work. You’ll get your epiphany when you’re ready to wake up from your slumber.