178 • Introduction to Art Therapy
distorted and grotesque (Figure 8.9), perhaps representing some of those long-repressed
inner feelings (A). The same damaged self was in a story Sam had told several months ear-
lier, after a brief hospitalization and some regression. He described a Martian invasion and
an Earthling, clearly a self-image, about whom he then felt almost hopeless:
“About this time, one of the most primitive of the Earthling creatures wanders to the
far side of the ship, and is immediately stranded, unable to get back. The Martian scanner
analyzer at this time determines that the earth creature doesn’t have enough life support
system. The Earthling creature will die. The Martians will have to intervene to save his life
... The elevator hydraulic on the lift is raised, and three Martians go out to rescue the primi-
tive Earthling, who is now dying.
“This is a great victory for the Martians, as they can now examine an Earthling, and now
they can condition it, and can observe very closely its behavior patterns. The only disad-
vantage for the Earthling is that he’ll find out ... Another disadvantage for the Earthling is
that there is intense physical pain in the cranial brain area ... The Earthlings are very weak
creatures. The Earthlings must realize that the Martians are omnipotent. They are not only
superior but omnipotent. However, the Martians respect the Earthlings for their ability to
grasp some information, and find that the Earthlings could no doubt be developed into an
intelligent lifelike form. The end.”
Dr. Irwin, to whom he told the story, asked: “You mean there’s some hope for the
Earthlings?” Sam replied slowly, “Well, some hope ... rather remote. At times it seems non-
existent, but there is some hope.” His characterizations of himself and the leaders reflected
both his fears and his hopes for change through therapy.
Change for Sam, as for all, was often slow, with regression as well as progression over time.
Becoming aware of all of his feelings, happy as well as sad ones, he struggled to integrate
Figure 8.9 One of Sam’s figurative paintings.