ABSTRACT
“The Use of an Object” was Winnicott’s last major work. Since its original presentation in 1968 it has come to be regarded as one of his most important contributions to psychoanalysis but also as one of his most enigmatic. The goal of this discussion is to reconsider the paper by examining it in historical context, including the original version, discussion, and unpublished correspondence. The concept of object usage was separated from its historical context, thereby subtly altering its meaning. An exploration of the relationship between object usage, play and transitional phenomena allows another vantage point from which to view Winnicott’s unique contribution.
