Inner Work

Review.

Robert Johnson’s Inner Work features frequently in my research, and with good reason. This clear, honest introduction to active imagination presents a collection of useful imaginal tools intended to help you feel comfortable as you begin your own practice.

Included in Inner Work are Johnson’s suggested approaches to the unconscious, dreams, and dialogical active imagination. He emphasizes a commitment to the principle of psychic reality, the application of ethics in imaginal work, and the importance of giving concrete form to our imaginal learning. Practitioners are led through a series of steps that structure imaginal work, establish respect for inner figures, and facilitate the development of a healthy imaginal ego. Special attention is given to using ritual to bring imaginal material into the waking, physical world.

Perfect for beginners in active imagination, intermediate practitioners will also benefit from reading and re-reading Inner Work as a means to refresh and to deepen their practices.

Full participation is the essence of Active Imagination … It is vital to join in as a complete partner in the exchange. One may make suggestions, initiate, ask questions, argue, object — everything one would do in any exchange between equals.

— Inner Work p. 181