The Shadow of a Figure of Light: The Archetype of the Alcoholic examines the human thirst for wholeness through the lens of alcoholism and addiction. Establishing an unknown thread that ties renowned psychiatrist C.G. Jung to Alcoholics Anonymous cofounder Bill Wilson, Peterson shows how their personal vision quests stemmed from an ancient shamanic legend--what he calls the archetype of the Alcoholic. Painting the Twelve Steps as a modern myth, the author presents the image of the Alcoholic as one that is leading us toward a more meaningful life amid a deepening spiritual crisis.