Psyche’s Reeds

Acrylic paint on canvas. Approximately 40 inches wide by 30 inches high

In the myth of Psyche and Eros, Psyche endures four seemingly impossible tasks to be reunited with her love, Eros. Viewed metaphorically, the tasks reflect stages of women’s psychological development.

The green reed was Psyche’s guide during her second task: retrieving golden fleece from dangerous sheep. The reed offered her sage advice by suggesting she avoid the sheep during the heat of the day when they were most ferocious. Rather, Psyche should wait until dusk and instead of gathering the fleece directly from the sheep, she should retrieve the remnants stuck to the trees.

Viewed through a psychological lens, reeds may reflect what grows from our own waters—that which rises from our unconscious. The reeds are those parts of us—the intuitions and somatic senses—that guide us and provide us with a sense of agency. They are the gold in our unconscious waters. In our culture dominated by ration and logic, we easily lose our connection to these wise parts of ourselves, which help bring coherence to chaos.

The reeds also show an alternative approach to power than the one patriarchal culture promotes, which, like the sheep, is generally aggressive and confrontational. The reed teaches Psyche a more nuanced approach to dealing with difficult situations. One that requires patience, reflection, and consideration yet is still effective. This is a good and safe way for Psyche to get “in touch” with the power that the sheep offer. Historically, women have been discouraged from creating a healthy relationship with their power, which is an important part of a healthy psychological life.  

Psyche’s Reeds initially emerged upside down. The sky first appeared as snow on the ground. The coldness of it dulls the hot sun in the myth.