Dreams   By: Henri Bergson (1859-1941)

In Dreams, Henri Bergson delves into the mysterious realm of our night-time illusions, immersing readers into a thought-provoking exploration of the human mind. With his characteristic blend of philosophical insight and poetic prose, Bergson skillfully examines the profound implications of dreaming, inviting us to reconsider our understanding of reality and consciousness.

Throughout the book, Bergson artfully introduces his readers to the enigmatic nature of dreams. He challenges the conventional belief that dreams are mere random images by highlighting their coherence and narrative structure. His captivating descriptions of dreams as condensed expressions of our desires and fears draw us deeper into the subconscious, unraveling its hidden meanings and symbolism.

Bergson's unique perspective on dreams emerges as he differentiates between "ordinary" and "profound" dreams. While ordinary dreams mirror everyday experiences and emotions, profound dreams transcend our personal lives, tapping into the collective unconscious. This distinction adds a fascinating layer to his analysis, as it posits dreams as a channel through which individuals can connect with a wider, universal consciousness.

One of the book's highlights lies in Bergson's exploration of the ways dreams intersect with our waking life. Drawing from his extensive knowledge of psychology and philosophy, he examines how dreams influence creativity, problem-solving, and even memory consolidation. His compelling arguments challenge the traditional assumption that dreams are disconnected from our conscious experiences, instead proposing a deeper interconnectedness between the two realms.

In his characteristic eloquence, Bergson weaves together a tapestry of anecdotes, scientific research, and philosophical concepts. From ancient theories of dreams to modern psychological insights, he effortlessly blends diverse disciplines, providing readers with a comprehensive framework for understanding this timeless phenomenon. His arguments are persuasive and thought-provoking, encouraging readers to question their own understanding of dreams.

While Dreams is undoubtedly a captivating read, its complexity may pose a challenge to some readers. Bergson's dense prose may require occasional re-reading to fully grasp his philosophical concepts. However, those willing to invest time and effort will be richly rewarded, as his ideas have the potential to reshape one's perspective on the nature of reality and the human mind.

Overall, Dreams is a breathtaking exploration into the depths of the human psyche. Henri Bergson's beautiful writing, coupled with his profound insights, makes this book a must-read for anyone interested in the mysteries of dreams and consciousness. It is an enlightening journey that will leave readers with a newfound appreciation for the power and significance of their dreams, forever altering the way they perceive their own inner worlds.

First Page:

Before the dawn of history mankind was engaged in the study of dreaming. The wise man among the ancients was preëminently the interpreter of dreams. The ability to interpret successfully or plausibly was the quickest road to royal favor, as Joseph and Daniel found it to be; failure to give satisfaction in this respect led to banishment from court or death. When a scholar laboriously translates a cuneiform tablet dug up from a Babylonian mound where it has lain buried for five thousand years or more, the chances are that it will turn out either an astrological treatise or a dream book. If the former, we look upon it with some indulgence; if the latter with pure contempt. For we know that the study of the stars, though undertaken for selfish reasons and pursued in the spirit of charlatanry, led at length to physical science, while the study of dreams has proved as unprofitable as the dreaming of them. Out of astrology grew astronomy. Out of oneiromancy has grown nothing... Continue reading book >>