Lake Archetype

The lake symbolizes a place of tranquility and calm. Its surface reflects the image of the landscape that surrounds it, but that is just an illusion. Beneath the surface, its waters are deep, mysterious, and dark. A traveller can be seduced by the fantasy of the unconscious imaginal realm and its deceptive safety only to be pulled under by the dense growth of vegetation and inner demons.

The lake is the mirror of the soul, inviting the explorer into the inner world of their unconscious with both its dangers and its treasures.

How do you experience the lake archetype? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below

New to archetypes? Check out the Introduction to Archetypes post which goes into greater depth on what archetypes are and how to use them.