Shadow Marriage: A Descent into Intimacy by Paul Dunion, EdD

Shadow Marriage: A Descent into Intimacy is a provocative and innovative book about marriage that introduces a paradigm shift away from the pursuit of nuptial happiness to an invitation to marital creativity. An ancient meaning of creativity is “to generate new life”. However, a requirement of all new life is a willingness for the old life to die.

Marriage is defined as a series of “Initiations” where each individual as well as their relationship is challenged to drop to new depths, leaving behind what may have obstructed both individual and collective deepening.

The book examines the nature of “shadow” especially as it is expressed through “shame”, “power”, “regression”, and “diversity”. Couples are encouraged to see marriage as a place where “Irreconcilable differences” are inevitable and, rather than terminate a relationship because of these differences, learn to go deeper within themselves and with one another.

Although this book was originally intended for anyone curious about surrendering to and navigating a committed relationship, it will particularly serve anyone who is married or intending to be married. Marriage is deeply mysterious, insecure and unpredictable. It is likely that you have not been given any of the competencies necessary to support yourself and your relationship through such a baffling and challenging experience. Marriage provides an excellent opportunity for growing up. It has the power to push us out of childhood and into adulthood. This book portrays marriage as a deeply powerful initiation.

Published by: iUniverse, Inc.
Release Date: August 17, 2006
ISBN13: 978-0595388493