Bruce Springsteen as a Symbol: Containment, Fatherhood, and Manhood

The article explores how Bruce Springsteen and his music function as a symbol. The article first presents the Jungian theory of symbols and of music as symbol. The central argument of the article is that, by functioning symbolically, Springsteen has the potential to influence the psyche of his audience and to function as a psychological resource. While no claim is made to cover the entire symbolic potential of Springsteen and his music, three central themes are identified and discussed: a symbol of containment and support, a symbol of a father figure, and symbolic support to an emerging masculine self. The evidence is drawn from statements made by his audience in currently available resources and from a series of dreams.