Passages from Clarissa Pinkola Ests’s book, Women Who Run With the Wolves: Myths and Stories of the Wild Woman Archetype, often resonate deeply with readers exploring themes of feminine instinct, creativity, and self-discovery. For example, “The doors to the world of the wild Self are few but precious. If you have a deep scar, that is a door, if you have an old, old story, that is a door. If you love the sky and the water so much you almost cannot bear it, that is a door. If you yearn for a deeper life, a full life, a sane life, that is a door.” This illustrates the book’s focus on accessing inner wisdom.
Ests’s work draws upon a rich tapestry of global myths, fairytales, and folklore to illuminate the “Wild Woman” archetype, a concept representing the untamed, intuitive feminine spirit. The book’s enduring popularity stems from its capacity to offer solace, guidance, and a sense of empowerment to individuals seeking a deeper connection with their authentic selves. Published in 1992, the book became a cultural touchstone during a period of renewed interest in feminine spirituality and mythology.
