The Pursuit of Dreams

T.E. Lawrence, also known as “the real Lawrence of Arabia” and author of Seven Pillars of Wisdom: A Triumph, wrote: “All men dream: but not equally. Those who dream by night in the dusty recesses of their minds wake up in the day to find it was vanity, but the dreamers of the day are dangerous men, for they may act their dreams with open eyes, to make it possible.”

Dreams are often described as series of images, sensations, and emotions involuntarily occurring during certain stages of sleep, mainly during rapid-eye movement (REM). Though their purposes and substance are not readily understood or known. They are often subjects of speculation as well as psychological and philosophical curiosity. Dreams span for a few seconds to 20 minutes. The average person has about three to five dreams per night, but some could have more. Though most people do not remember their dreams, those who do are left contemplating their meaning or significance.

So before or after you get between the covers and float along the surreal stream to slumber, here are some materials that could assist in deciphering the meaning of your dreams:

How to Interpret Dreams and Visions by Perry Stone
Every person will have a dream at some point. Some will have visions. However, for many, those dreams and visions leave them wanting for some kind of interpretation and explanation. What did it mean? What does it mean when I dream about a departed loved one? What does it mean when I have the same dream more than once? What are the significance of nightmares? Is it a dream or is it a warning or advice? Check this book and see.

The Key to Your Dreams by Tamara Trusseau
Dreams, whether pleasant or vague or frightening, usually don’t make much sense, if any. This book attempts to explain different types of dreams as well as an extensive dictionary of symbols that may help you unlock meanings and expel the obscurity of possible hidden meanings.

The Watkins Dictionary of Dreams by Mario Reading
This is the ultimate dictionary for dream interpretation. It attempts to illuminate the reader on hidden meanings of dreams and helps in the journey of self-discovery. The author draws on research in folklore, art, superstition, science, psychology, and philosophy in generating his interpretations on symbols.

The History of Last Night’s Dream: Discovering the Hidden Path to the Soul by Rodger Kamenetz
The author explores the meaning of dreams in terms of his Jewish heritage. Using Jacob and his dreams as a leitmotif, the author offers a psychological and mystical approach to understanding messages we receive during our slumber.

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Farah A. Ferguson
Social Sciences Department
Central Branch