Clarissa Pinkola Estés
Clarissa Pinkola Estés
#### A Life of Passion, Wisdom, and Empowerment
Full Name and Common Aliases
Clarissa Pinkola Estés is a renowned Argentine-American poet, author, Jungian analyst, and scholar. She is also known for her work as a storyteller, translator, and activist.
Birth and Death Dates
Born on September 24, 1943, in Mendoza, Argentina, Clarissa passed away on September 30, 2020, at the age of 77.
Nationality and Profession(s)
Estés is an Argentine-American citizen. Throughout her life, she has been a poet, author, Jungian analyst, scholar, storyteller, translator, and activist.
Early Life and Background
Clarissa Pinkola Estés was born to a Jewish family in Argentina during World War II. Her early life was marked by trauma and loss, as her family struggled under the rule of dictator Juan Perón. In 1962, she moved to the United States with her husband, where they settled in the San Francisco Bay Area.
Estés's passion for storytelling and poetry developed at an early age, influenced by the rich folk traditions of Argentina. She went on to earn a Master's degree in clinical psychology from Stanford University and later became a Jungian analyst. Her experiences as a woman of color navigating multiple cultures have deeply informed her work.
Major Accomplishments
Estés has made significant contributions to the fields of psychology, literature, and social justice. As a poet and author, she is best known for her classic book _The Gift of Tears_, but it was her book _Women Who Run with the Wolves: Myths and Stories of the Wild Woman Archetype_ that catapulted her to international recognition.
This powerful work explores the transformative power of myths, stories, and archetypes in women's lives. By weaving together ancient tales from around the world with contemporary feminist perspectives, Estés created a groundbreaking guide for women seeking empowerment and self-discovery.
Notable Works or Actions
Estés has published numerous books, including _The Will to Change: Men, Masculinity, and Love_; _Women Who Run with the Wolves_ (a revised edition); and _Theatre of the Oppressed_. Her essays and articles have appeared in various publications, such as _The New York Times_, _The Nation_, and _Ms. Magazine_.
As a storyteller and translator, Estés has worked tirelessly to preserve and share the rich cultural heritage of Latin America. She has also been an outspoken advocate for women's rights, social justice, and human rights.
Impact and Legacy
Estés's work has inspired countless individuals worldwide to reclaim their power, challenge patriarchal norms, and pursue their passions. Her writing has become a beacon of hope and guidance for women seeking self-empowerment and transformation.
As a scholar and analyst, Estés has helped bridge the gap between psychology and literature, demonstrating the importance of mythological and symbolic understanding in personal growth and healing.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Clarissa Pinkola Estés is widely quoted and remembered for her wisdom on the transformative power of stories, myths, and archetypes. Her work has touched hearts and minds globally, inspiring generations to re-examine their lives, values, and aspirations.
As a poet, author, analyst, and activist, Estés's legacy serves as a testament to the enduring impact of one life dedicated to passion, creativity, and social change.
Quotes by Clarissa Pinkola Estés
Clarissa Pinkola Estés's insights on:
People used to grow up in small communities where folk wisdom was passed down. But we don't live there anymore. We can't go next door to your aunt and ask her for the answers.
Than Shwe ordered the confiscation of all cell phones and laptops and computers so no reportage could come out of Burma. It seemed clear that a demon, something diabolical, rather than something compassionate and human was in charge of Burma.
Many people have trouble with forgiveness because they have been taught it is a singular act to be completed in one sitting. That is not so. Forgiveness has many layers, many seasons.
In our time, there are still many, like those in the Good Samaritan story, who being of the religious classes in that time, purposely crossed to the other side of the road, and passed by the injured and bleeding.
Forgive: Make a conscious decision to cease to harbor resentment, which includes forgiving a debt and giving up one's resolve to retaliate.
You know the best thing about having a house? You get to plant whatever you want in the yard and watch it grow.
Cynicism means the conduit to the soul has a great kink in it, like a garden hose in which nothing flows in either direction.
To Than Shwe, a kingdom in return for the eternal soul is just the right egregious trade-off. Than Shwe is a general who carries the light of unbounded ambition.