Poetic Means to Anti-Anorexic Ends

Abstract

Narrative therapy locates the problem of eating disorders in cultural discourses rather than the traditional approach of locating the problem in biological, systemic, or psychological metaphors. As a result, the narrative approach to therapy offers many therapeutic possibilities with clients who struggle with anorexia and/or bulimia. This article chronicles my work with a 33-year-old woman, Nannette, who was in the grip of anorexia. Through a narrative practice of externalizing and remembering who she was outside the realm of anorexia, Nannette accessed her creative poetic talents. Writing her poetry created space for Nannette to emancipate herself from anorexic practices. By sharing her poems and our work, I hope to provide the reader with a source of sustenance, hope, and inspiration in fighting anorexia/bulimia.