This paper offers a reading of Melanie Klein's concept of the depressive position based on primary texts. A problematic area is uncovered, resulting from a contradictory tension amongst phenomena grouped under Klein's concept. Specifically, the author notes two motifs that run through her descriptions, which are metaphorically labelled in this paper as ‘tragic’ and ‘moral’. These are shown to negate each other in experiential terms, as the more primitive ‘tragic’ level implies irrevocable loss and hence catastrophic states, whereas the more mature ‘moral’ level derives strength from reparation. These two motifs create a dialectic tension that enriches Klein's concept.