Hi Nick,

I developed an allegory based on the Wizard of Oz in describing/explaining the EXPERIENCE OF IMPULSIVITY, in regard to child & adolescent mental health.  The characteristics/aspects that Dorothy experienced on her "journey" are telling and pertinent. I use the allegory in one of my training seminars for clinical and educational personnel in an attempt to help them understand and appreciate the experience one undergoes with impulsivity, often a fundamental aspect of what I term a "severe emotional episode."

I trust I understand the nature of your question and hope you find my response helpful.

Perhaps you will find the attached essay beneficial as well.

Best Regards.

Thanks, Gary. Apologies for the late response - I have been overseas in a remote location for the past two weeks.  The ideas and paper are fantastic; thanks very much.

Hi Nick,

I'm glad you found it all to your liking.  Feel free to pass around the essay.  If you'd like to know more about he allegory, let me know.  I should be able to find a way to explain it to you. :) :)   All the best. 

Also the Legend of Parzival has inspired this book: Adolescence: The Sacred Passage by Betty Staley. She comes from the Waldorf Education perspective, whose curriculum is largely constructed of storytelling and allegory, especially in the elementary years.

Great information. Thanks, Deborah.

Hello Nick,

I have used the Allegory of the Cave from the Republic.  Using the shadows on the wall as representations of those who have not taken the journey toward self discovery, those who have simply went along and in that process lose that which makes them who they are. I also use the shadow as to what education, cultures, societies, nationa states want you to see as reality, and in doing so begin to critically examine the difference between what is taught as "reality"  and what is behind the creation of such and such shadow as a normanity.  This has allowed many young people to express themselves in a much more personal manor along with greater depth. There is one short story I use in the same manor by Jimmy Santiago Baca, (writer of Blood in Blood out) in his book entitled The Three sons of Julia and the short story by the same title.  I hope this helps.  

Hi Douglas,

I really appreciate this information.  Thanks so much.