The author discusses the role of desymbolization in psychical evolution in relation to processes of unbinding/binding and their stumbling blocks in neurotic and non-neurotic structures. Starting from the definition of the symbol the processes of symbolization and the notion of absence in analytic work are examined, in particular the symbolization of affect in the two topographies. The role of seduction and ‘enigmatic signifiers’ in contemporary clinical practice are also discussed, as well as the metamorphosic ordeal of adolescent psychosexuality.