Stage 1: Autonomy vs. Shame

1. A creature, uncertain of its form and unclear on its nature, floats aimlessly in a formless void. Being undifferentiated and unknowing of itself and those around it, it rejoices in its every experience. It continues as such, until the temptation towards greater degrees of complexity compels it onward and outward.

2. After encountering another of its own kind, the creature begins to notice what it is. In forming itself in this way it begins to differentiate itself from its surroundings and to distinguish itself from what it is not. It feels lessened from its previous state of unity and longs for completion. It seeks this in its newfound companion.

3. A third person enters into the picture, creating complications previously unforeseen. After much agonizing and infrequent pleasurable experiences, this third party is ejected from the pair. However, the creature, still at this point uncertain of its separate identity, cannot determine whether it has ejected part of itself or an external individual. Difficulties ensue.

4. The creature, now existing in a somewhat more complex form, wanders around in despair. It finds itself unable to relate to or connect with others like itself, and feels a detachment from its original state of unity. Those around it tell it to quit complaining and move on. This doesn't help.

5. Through energetic motion, the creature re-establishes a separate identity. Newly assured in this state of person-hood, it grows excited only to find that change leads to new complications. What happened to its old self? What about the world it used to inhabit? So many things have changed.