As we begin to explore the “hitting” vs. “non-hitting” phenomenon in synchronicity, I’d like to offer a few observations drawn from my contemplations of the divinatory arts over the last decade and a half.
Most people who have experimented with divination systems have experienced an answer that seems to speak directly to their query. Such a synchronistic hit can be a profound—and, when emotionally charged, even cathartic—moment. But what is happening when we must struggle to connect the dots before a relevant meaning constellates? How are we to understand this unevenness?
Below are some thoughts on the matter, with the final point addressing a related but distinct phenomenon: the oppositional response.
1) The unconscious seems to appreciate variety, as any system of divination is inherently limited. Imagine trying to have a verbal exchange with someone while being restricted to the poems of a single book—say, the I Ching or The Vigeland Oracle. This is the position of the unconscious when compelled to communicate through an oracular medium. The constraints of any system inevitably impede the smooth transfer of information—especially when we consider that the unconscious far exceeds the conscious ego in bandwidth and processing power, yet favors symbolism and oblique reasoning. (This is part of the rationale for using artistic symbols as an oracular medium, but that’s a topic for another day.)
Given these constraints, it makes sense that clear, on-the-nose responses would be the exception rather than the rule. My experience suggests that it’s wise to change things up and avoid overreliance on a single mode of communication. Familiarity with two or three divination systems can be helpful, and we should never neglect dreams. Dreams are the unconscious taking the initiative to begin a dialogue with the conscious ego, and if we want authentic engagement from the unconscious when consulting an oracle, we should be willing to reciprocate when a vivid dream arrives. Likewise, products of artistic flow states are potent expressions of the unconscious and deserve reflective attention.
By regularly accessing a variety of symbolic outlets—and using them in moderation—we can mitigate the problem of difficult readings that arise when a system grows stale through overuse.
2) A run of difficult or apparently nonsensical answers—especially after introducing other modes of communication—may signal the need to examine one’s relating style. Many people struggle to relate well to the unconscious for a simple reason: for decades, popular psychology has framed it as a computer to be reprogrammed once a bug is identified. Hypnosis and similar tools are often treated as technologies for manipulating faulty code in an impersonal system. Communication, if it occurs at all, is instrumental and outcome-driven.
This is not to deny the effectiveness of hypnotherapy, but to note that its paradigm—and perhaps its gains—are limited by how it chooses to engage the unconscious. If we take seriously the theories of Jung or approaches like Internal Family Systems (IFS), then the mechanistic view is not only inaccurate but actively obstructs a life-giving relationship with the deeper psyche.
Unfortunately, this model has permeated the broader culture, leaving many people ill-equipped to relate meaningfully to their inner worlds.
So what does good relating with the unconscious look like? The answer isn’t so different from good relating between friends or partners: sincerity and respect are essential. When working with the Oracle, it helps to avoid extremes—neither overly solemn nor overly casual. A spirit of dignified play is best. The unconscious is a person, or rather a collection of persons, each a facet of your selfhood. To respect the unconscious is to respect yourself.
If the Oracle becomes mere diversion or a means of chasing synchronistic highs, it’s best to put it away and return later in a more sober frame of mind. As in any relationship, rapport erodes when we feel used or not taken seriously, and the unconscious is no different. Be clear about your intentions. Ultimately, the unconscious seeks your optimal adaptation to the world—even when its strategies are outdated or unhelpful. Using the Oracle in the service of self-awareness and virtue brings us into greater alignment with the psyche or Self and goes a long way toward fostering a beneficial relationship.
3) On occasion, I’ve received answers from the Oracle that feel antagonistic, mocking, or cruel. This isn’t so much a non-hit as a dark synchronicity—an answer that feels uncannily relevant but impossible to interpret in a helpful way.
Here it’s important to remember that the unconscious is a vast ecosystem, populated by apparent subpersonalities shaped by the interactions of complexes, archetypes, and other psychic contents. Some of these necessarily reside in the personal or collective shadow.
Despite our intentions to connect with the archetype of wholeness—the Self—it’s possible for a shadow aspect to “steal the keys to the bus” and speak through the Oracle. This can be disorienting, even frightening, as if something is deliberately constellating our worst fears or darkest impulses.
In a sense, that’s exactly what’s happening. Those with a religious background may interpret such encounters as evil or demonic, but externalizing the phenomenon risks missing an opportunity for self-knowledge. Shadow aspects can indeed be vicious or terrifying, yet they are still parts of you. They play a crucial homeostatic role in the psyche, and in any genuine spiritual journey they often become the primary drivers of growth—if engaged properly.
Acting on the shadow’s impulses or indulging its fears is not the way forward. Instead, normalize the experience. Shadow encounters are just the price of entry for inner work. At this point, it’s best to put the book away and bring as much curiosity, attention, and compassion to your inner world as you can. Remember that such episodes often represent the acting out of a frightened child—an underdeveloped, emotionally immature part of the psyche seeking recognition.
Ask the unconscious for dreams that offer insight. Notice your moods and fantasies. Engage creatively through journaling or art. And finally, make use of external resources—therapists or coaches open to a Jungian framework—to help you listen for what wants to be learned. Shadow work is a vast and vital subject, and one we’ll return to in the future.