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The Interpretation of Dreams

682 pages, 2010

science & nature

science & nature

1064 books
philosophy

philosophy

711 books
psychology

psychology

705 books
Takeaways
Description

The standard edition of Sigmund Freud's classic work on the psychology and significance of dreams. What are the most common dreams, and why do we have them? What does a dream about death mean? What do dreams of swimming, failing, or flying symbolize? 

First published in 1899, Sigmund Freud's groundbreaking book, The Interpretation of Dreams, explores why we dream and why dreams matter in our psychological lives. Delving into theories of manifest and latent dream content, the special language of dreams, dreams as wish fulfillment, the significance of childhood experiences, and much more, Freud offers an incisive and enduringly relevant examination of dream psychology. 

Encompassing dozens of case histories and detailed analyses of actual dreams, this landmark work grants us unique insight into our sleeping experiences. Renowned for translating Freud's German writings into English, James Strachey--with the assistance of Freud's daughter Anna--first published this edition in 1953. Incorporating all textual alterations made by Freud over a period of thirty years, it remains the most complete translation of the work in print. 

Dreams are not random

Sigmund Freud suggests that dreams are not just random thoughts that pop into our heads while we sleep. They are meaningful and can be interpreted. So, next time you have a dream, don't just brush it off. Take a moment to explore what it might be telling you.

Dreams are a form of wish fulfillment

Freud argues that dreams are a way for us to fulfill our unmet desires. If you've ever had a dream where you're flying or winning the lottery, it might be because you're longing for freedom or wealth in your waking life. So, take a look at your dreams and see what desires they might be pointing to.

Dreams can reveal hidden feelings

According to The Interpretation of Dreams, our dreams can reveal feelings that we've repressed or ignored. If you're having recurring dreams, it might be worth digging into what feelings or issues they might be highlighting.

Dreams use symbolism

Freud suggests that dreams often use symbols to represent our thoughts and feelings. So, if you're dreaming about a snake, it doesn't necessarily mean you're afraid of snakes. It could symbolize something else entirely. It's worth researching common dream symbols to help interpret your own dreams.

Dreams can help us understand ourselves better

By interpreting our dreams, we can gain a better understanding of our desires, fears, and feelings. So, don't just dismiss your dreams as random thoughts. Use them as a tool to better understand yourself. Check out The Interpretation of Dreams by Sigmund Freud to learn more about how to do this.

Quotes 5

Freud's 'The Interpretation of Dreams' is a monumental work that has revolutionized our understanding of the human mind.

Carl JungCarl Jung - Analytical psychology

Freud's 'The Interpretation of Dreams' is a groundbreaking work that has forever changed the field of psychoanalysis.

Ernest JonesErnest Jones - Freud's biographer

Freud's 'The Interpretation of Dreams' is a seminal work that has reshaped our understanding of the unconscious mind.

Jacques LacanJacques Lacan - Structural psychoanalysis

Freud's 'The Interpretation of Dreams' is a pioneering work that has forever transformed the study of literature.

Harold BloomHarold Bloom - Literary critic

Freud's 'The Interpretation of Dreams' is a revolutionary work that has forever altered the field of semiotics.

Julia KristevaJulia Kristeva - Semiotic theory
Carl JungErnest JonesJacques LacanHarold BloomJulia Kristeva

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