A transpersonal perspective on the exploration of soul through personal, creative expression. 'In search of soul'

This study is an exploration of soul, that which is considered to be the animating life energy or force, from a transpersonal perspective. Heuristic in nature, it depicts a journey of self-discovery, a spiritual search, to unveil the authentic self. Incorporating a methodology of heuristic inquiry supported by principles inherent in the field of transpersonal psychology, the author engages in an experiential quest for knowledge. Both subjective and objective analysis and evaluation is applied, and though highly personal, the work suggests universal implications. The underlying assumption that knowledge evoked by experience is valid and factual is an important theme of this study. Using qualitative and in-depth depictions, the author tells the story of her search for soul through the medium of creative expression. A "Creative Compendium" is the heart of this research study, and consists of an autobiographical narrative rich in allegory and symbolism, woven together by a collection of original songs and artwork.;The author explores the depths and heights of her own soul in a series of four phases which are consistent with literature describing the search for enlightenment and in particular Joseph Campbell's "hero's journey." Experiences and insights from techniques employed to access the unconscious, collective unconscious, and superconscious realms are integrated within the Compendium throughout the journey. The reader is taken on a personal, yet universal "tour" through the author's phases of soul-discovery; (1) Dark Nights (Soul in Exile), (2) The Call (Evocation of the Soul), (3) Awakening (Illumination of the Soul), and (4) The Dream (The Soul's Return).;Besides a literature review, the contextual essay consists of comprehensive Endnotes which translate the meanings of symbols and metaphors for the reader, and provide a deeper context for understanding and assimilating the contributions that both the content and process of the creative expression make toward the illumination of soul. The Reflection and Synthesis section, then, summarizes the experience and insight gained from this creative journey of inner exploration.;This study illustrates how the exploration of the transpersonal dimensions of human experience can provide a rich context in which to discover deeper and higher realms of awareness. It concludes that through the reflection and creative expression of this awareness, an individual's authentic self, or animating life energy (soul) can reveal itself. The author's intention in this study was to present perspectives and revelations that inspire others to engage in their own unique explorations of soul.