Abstract:
In this thesis fiction writing is being used as metaphor for doing research and presenting the research results. A story, entitled ‘the appointment’ gives content to the metaphor and bears the evidence of the research results throughout the thesis. As practical theology is a border science, the research utilizes insights from psychology, sociology, pedagogy and philosophy. The theology used can be described as cultural linguistic theology, with a strong metaphoric element. The African, South African and therapeutic contexts form the backdrop of the study. A postfoundationalist theology is proposed rather than a fundationalist or non-fundationalist approach. As a practical theological paradigm a narrative, eco-hermeneutic frame of reference is used while imagination is regarded as a human interest, or action. This interest is correlated with the Christian tradition of stories about the action. A constructive postmodern approach that has three main points of departure is followed, i.e. the end of the credibility of the metanarratives, as well as a sensitivity for the unrepresentable and the sublime. In addition to this deconstruction and social constructionism are used as positive components of a postmodern paradigm. Five verbatim, unstructured conversations about imagination as story generating activity in narrative therapy forms the basis of the research. The climax of the research portrays imagination as the one who helps us see reality differently, and to see a different reality. Reality creation, through story creation, is not only possible, but also imperative in therapy. It opens our lives for the aesthetic and the ethical. Imagination reflects an unutilized potential, she can contribute greatly, but is seldom asked to participate. She is politically and academically marginalized. The research has an open conclusion that calls for dialogue and the possibility of further study…
