Objective: The authors discuss journal writing in learning emergency psychiatry. Methods: The journal of a psychiatry intern rotating through an emergency department is used as sample material for analysis that could take place in supervision or a resident support group. A range of articles are reviewed that illuminate the relevance of journal writing for the learning process, including articles about resident resilience, "autognosis," the learning process in psychiatry, and "limbic music." Results: Journal writing is a useful tool in consolidating knowledge, and can be used along with traditional exercises for learning psychiatry such as writing chart notes, process notes, and completing required studies for examinations. Conclusion: Psychiatry training should continue to explore the use of journals as residents continue to write them.