Symbolic overload (or SO for short) is basically the over use of symbol and metaphor to the point where any possibility of meaning or message is lost in a confusing and complicated referential tapestry. Symbolic overload is most common in the visual and (sometimes) musical arts, but it can be found (rarely) in the written word as well. Because of the difficulty of expressing symbols in the linear language of prose, it takes a special kind of “genius” to symbolically overload a piece of linear text, however it can be done.

Symbolic overload is similar to EPMO in that it is what “people who don’t understand” do to “other people who don’t understand” in order to make the others who don’t understand think that they do, when in fact they don’t. Although it can be difficult to recognize at first, once you become sensitive to it’s existence, it’s usually pretty easy to spot.

Although sometimes the presence of SO is the result of naiveté or inexperience, sometimes the presence indicates deep pathology. There may be ego and self esteem damage, for example, or it may indicate deliberate attempts to obscure. Either way, caution when approaching a symbolically overloaded tapestry is called for.

Unfortunately, when SO activities are based on some underlying pathology, they tend to be self reinforcing at multiple levels. The symbols themselves can feed back and influence the reality of the physical unit (through the pathways of consciousness), and the individual physical unit itself may repress or be unaware of what leads them to this misuse of symbols. Underlying egoic pathology may lead to defensive posturing and attempts to convince themselves, and others, that there is a deep connection when in fact there is not. Extricating yourself from the foolishness often requires a slap in the face with a wet fish.

Symbolic overload is common in the old world tarot deck. It is also found in popular music. The song Stairway to Heaven by Led Zeppelin is a classic example of poetic SO.

Tags: Symbolic Overload

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