Kissing

A kiss can have the same symbolic connotation as intercourse (see Sex). In folk tales, it is worth noting that in one version of a universal story (e.g., the Sleeping Beauty theme), a kiss is what awakens, while in another version, it is intercourse. Whether two people kiss each other or have intercourse, it usually symbolizes the psychological integration of opposites.

However, the kiss is colored by the symbolism of the mouth (cf.). The mouth is connected, not least, to breathing (or breath) and spirit, that is, life force. In folk tales, as mentioned above, it is a recurring image that someone is brought to life by just a kiss. Both in kisses and speech, lips and tongue are used, which can give the kiss a more conscious, communicative aspect; but it also suggests something deeper.

To kiss something is to accept it and unite with it. We all recognize the theme in fairy tales where the princess kisses her frog, who then transforms into a prince. But this image appears in many contexts. In the Eleusinian mysteries, the initiate would kiss the serpent representing Demeter, the goddess of the earth.

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