What cannot be talked about cannot be put to rest. And if it is not, the wounds will fester from generation to generation.
Bruno BettelheimRead
The delight we experience when we allow ourselves to respond to a fairy tale, the enchantment we feel, comes not from the psychological meaning of the tale (although this contributes to it) but from its literary qualities-the tale itself as a work of art.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The joy we find in fairy tales arises from their artistic qualities rather than solely their psychological interpretations.
Bruno Bettelheim highlights that the pleasure and enchantment we derive from fairy tales stem from their literary characteristics and artistry. While psychological meanings do play a role, the intrinsic value of the narrative structure, style, and imagination inherent in the tale itself evoke a more profound emotional response, allowing us to appreciate it as a work of art.
Themes
Fairy TaleArtLiterary QualitiesEnchantmentResponse
In practice
Example use cases
During a storytelling session, I might share this quote to highlight the beauty of literature.
More from Bruno Bettelheim
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Punishment may make us obey the orders we are given, but at best it will only teach an obedience to authority, not a self-control which enhances our self-respect.
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Not only is our love for our children sometimes tinged with annoyance, discouragement, and disappointment, the same is true for the love our children feel for us.
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The ability to read becomes devalued when what one has learned to read adds nothing of importance to one's life.
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