On the symbolism of hair: an introduction

No other part of the body seems to hold such a variety of symbolic power as the hair. It is both part of our body, and therefore part of our individual identity, and yet at the same time it is changeable and detachable: it emerges and falls out, it can be altered according to taste and fashion, it can be covered or revealed, given or revered. Growing quicker than any other part of our body, it is our most visibly living organ and in this sense is a manifestation of living. At the same time, hair is composed entirely of dead cells: it is where cells go to die - it is the body’s living graveyard.

Upcoming are several analyses of the symbolism contained within hair. One or two will examine hair and taboo: hair lost or hair concealed, with reference to the anti-headscarf sentiment in mainstream French society. Another looks through psychoanalytic glasses at both famous and less famous examples of hair as power. Another post will concern hair as an object of superstition and a bearer of magic. I don’t know yet which order they will emerge.