Harold Bloom suggests that the concept of "successful therapy" is a contradiction in terms, implying that the idea of achieving true success in therapy is inherently flawed. This perspective highlights the complexities and challenges individuals face when seeking psychological healing and understanding. Therapy often involves deep-seated issues that may not be fully resolved, thus making the notion of a definitive success problematic.

Bloom's view provokes thought about the nature of therapy, suggesting that it may not lead to straightforward resolutions but rather serve as an ongoing process of self-exploration and understanding. This reflects a broader understanding that personal growth and mental health can be nuanced and complex, rather than merely a checklist of achieved goals.