Huraian
This study is a reflection on the ambiguity of melancholic states, which are vectors for creation, but which also hinder the evocation of life events due to ruptures in memory chains. This second strand has been the subject of great controversy in the theoretical and clinical spheres. We begin with Aristotelian thinking about why exceptional men, geniuses, poets, scientists, among others, go through melancholic states, but who, in extreme situations, resort to creative outlets.