In this book, R. Johnson shows that we need to "master" our shadow - the hidden, dark side of the psyche. Following the author, we see how the shadow arises; how she interacts with other parts of the individual and with the outside world; we see that she absorbs into herself. Johnson argues that if we do not accept our shadow, if we do not begin to respect it, then we will not be able to achieve integrity. After all, hidden, depressed parts of the psyche do not disappear anywhere and can suddenly (and often painfully) appear.