Psychoanalysis and creative processes: Reflections on Freud's “On transience” in clinical practice

This paper originates from reflections sparked by reading several essays on the topic of creativity. In particular, I aim to highlight the essential elements that seem most significant in the complex relationship between psychoanalysis and creativity, starting with Freud's 1915 essay “On Transience.” The issue of the analyst's creativity has been extensively debated, introducing arguments related to the rigor of technique or the necessity of following well-established and validated paths. This is a complex matter, especially when considering the training of analysts and the extent to which individual creative initiative can be allowed. In this work, by revisiting Freud's 1937 text “Constructions in Analysis” and drawing on the evocative works of Giannakoulas, with specific reference to the 2003 essay by Hernandez and Giannakoulas “On the Construction of Potential Space”–which I found particularly useful for working with patients–I will attempt to outline some theoretical reflections and share a clinical experience where I felt able to exercise creative freedom. I believe this creative freedom facilitated unexpected openings, without altering the rigor of the therapeutic setting.