Lesson Three: Analyzing A Dream
Notes from the Instructor
As I've already mentioned, my e-mailbox is awash with letters from dreamers. Thank you! I've been reading over your assignments as time permits. Please remember, if you have a question or problem, putting "dreamclass question" in your subject heading is like "raising your hand" and I will give your letter priority! Feel free to write anytime, about anything.
The Dream Class bulletin board has also been busy this past week. If you go there, you'll meet lots of friendly classmates who are introducing themselves and discussing study topics.
Links to More Dream-Inspired Art
Assignment Three
Choose a dream from assignment one (or any other dream) that holds mystery for you and which you would like to analyze. Print out your dream and circle all the nouns (people, places, things). (Hint: Every sentence has at least one noun.) Make a list of all nouns, then using your dream dictionary, look up every noun on your list. If the noun is not listed, look for objects similar in shape or use. We will draw on the power of the class (a hundred people with as many different dream dictionaries) to help you figure out difficult symbols. Please note any symbols that you have trouble with and we will help you.
Write a brief definition next to each noun. You may add your own gut feelings and insights, since you will recognize symbolic associations to your waking life.
For deeper understanding, try connecting the symbols from your dream with the items in your two lists (ten events and ten important people). Find out if there are any obvious associations.
Send your dream, word list and definitions, and any questions to me as your third assignment. Please put "dreamclass Assignment 3" in the subject.
Dream, 3/6/94: I'm traveling, staying in a hotel. The lady I'm with loses her key but I make her find it.
