Freud’s Interpretation of Dreams

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“The interpretation of dreams is the royal road to a knowledge of the unconscious activities of the mind.”

– Sigmund Freud

Freud’s Psychic Revolution

Sigmund Freud, at the outset of his groundbreaking work, “The Interpretation of Dreams,” throws down a gauntlet, challenging the prevailing scientific dogma of his time that relegated dreams to the realm of the meaningless. He posits that dreams are not merely the arbitrary firings of a resting brain, but rather complex psychic phenomena worthy of serious consideration and, crucially, interpretation.

Scientific Confrontation

This assertion directly confronts the dominant scientific thought of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, in which Freud argues that this conceptualization  stripped dreams of any psychological weight. These theories, he explains, saw dreaming not as a psychic activity at all, but as “a somatic process which makes itself known to the psychic apparatus by means of symbols”. This essentially rendered dreams as meaningless physiological byproducts of sleep, akin to involuntary muscle twitches, with no deeper significance to unravel. Such a perspective left no room for the concept of dream interpretation, because it inherently negated the idea that a dream could mean anything.

Freud, however, acknowledges the inherent human resistance to this scientific dismissal of dreams. He points out that lay opinion, “illogical” as it may be according to the scientific standards of the day, refuses to relinquish the intuitive sense that dreams do possess a hidden meaning . He acknowledges a persistent belief, driven by “a dim intuition” that dreams act as substitutes for other thought processes, masked expressions waiting to be deciphered.

Symbolic Interpretation

He then turns his critical eye to the two most prevalent methods employed by the “unscientific world” to interpret dreams, highlighting their limitations and ultimate shortcomings. The first, the symbolic interpretation, attempts to understand the dream as a whole, substituting its seemingly nonsensical content with a coherent and analogous narrative that carries a clear, often prophetic, message. While this approach might hold some value for relatively straightforward allegorical dreams, such as the biblical example of Joseph interpreting Pharaoh’s dream of seven fat and lean cows predicting years of plenty and famine, it quickly crumbles when confronted with the chaotic and perplexing nature of many dreams.

Cipher Method

The second method, the cipher method, abandons the holistic approach and instead treats the dream as a fragmented code, where individual elements are assigned predetermined meanings according to a fixed key, like consulting a “dream-dictionary.”. However, this method ignores the critical element of individual context. A “letter” in one person’s dream might symbolize “vexation,” while for another it could represent something entirely different. Freud criticizes this approach for its reliance on unreliable sources and its “purely mechanical transference”, which disregards the unique personal associations connected to each dream element.

Artemidorus of Daldis

However, Freud acknowledges an “interesting variant” of the cipher method in the work of the ancient dream interpreter Artemidorus of Daldis. 

“It will be an advantage, and not only an advantage but a necessity both for the dreamer and for the consultant, to have the dream-interpreter briefed as to the identity of the dreamer, his occupation, his birth, his financial situation, his state of health, and his age. And the nature of the dream itself must be examined in precise detail—any small addition or omission can skew the predicted outcome, as we go on to demonstrate. So anyone failing to adhere to these conditions can only blame himself, rather than us, if things go wrong” 

Unlike the generalist “dream-dictionary” approach, Artemidoros recognized that the same dream content could hold different meanings depending on the individual dreamer’s social position and personal circumstances. This incorporation of the dreamer’s background, though still limited by a reliance on the interpreter’s own associations, foreshadowed Freud’s emphasis on the importance of the dreamer’s unique context and experiences in understanding the true meaning of a dream.

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Our dream analysis app, that you can find in the description, closely follows these Artemidorus and Freudian principles of personalized dream interpretation.

Freud’s Psychoanalytic Method of Dream Interpretation 

Freud’s psychoanalytic method for dream interpretation requires a unique approach to understanding the dreamer’s inner world, one that involves actively engaging with the unconscious through a process of guided self-observation and free association.

Uncritical State of Self-Observation

Freud emphasizes that this journey into the unconscious requires a specific mental preparation on the part of the dreamer. The first step, he explains, is to cultivate a state of heightened awareness of one’s internal psychic experiences while simultaneously suspending critical judgment. He instructs his patients to assume a restful posture, closing their eyes to minimize external distractions and to focus their attention inwards. It’s crucial, he insists, to “renounce all criticism of the thought-formations which he may perceive”, allowing thoughts to arise without attempting to censor or evaluate them.

This deliberate suspension of the conscious mind’s gatekeeper function is crucial. Freud recognizes that the unconscious often harbors thoughts and emotions that we actively try to suppress or ignore in our waking lives, as these thoughts may be deemed irrelevant, illogical, or even disturbing. It’s only by silencing this inner critic, he argues, that the unconscious can truly reveal itself.

Reflection

Freud contrasts this state of uncritical self-observation with the more familiar process of reflection. Reflection, he explains, involves a more conscious, deliberate effort to analyze our thoughts and feelings, often accompanied by a sense of self-awareness and judgment. While reflection involves focused attention, it also relies heavily on the critical faculties of the conscious mind, leading to the suppression or dismissal of thoughts deemed illogical, nonsensical, or even threatening.

“In self-observation, on the other hand, he has but one task – that of suppressing criticism; if he succeeds in doing this, an unlimited number of thoughts enter his consciousness which would otherwise have eluded his grasp.” 

This uncritical state of self-observation, Freud asserts, allows for a more direct engagement with the unconscious, opening a pathway for the dreamer to access the hidden network of thoughts, feelings, and memories that contribute to their dreams.

Friedrich Schiller

To illustrate the power of uncritical self-observation, Freud draws a parallel to the creative process, referencing the insights of the German poet and philosopher, Friedrich Schiller. Schiller, in a letter to a friend grappling with writer’s block, described the importance of allowing ideas to flow freely without the intellect’s censoring influence:

 “Apparently it is not good – and indeed it hinders the creative work of the mind – if the intellect examines too closely the ideas already pouring in, as it were, at the gates.” 

Freud proposes that this creative state, characterized by an open mind and a suspension of judgment, is remarkably similar to the mental state needed to access the unconscious material that shapes our dreams. It’s a state of heightened awareness coupled with a relinquishment of conscious control, allowing for a free flow of ideas and associations. Freud further suggests that this state of mind is analogous to the state of mind before falling asleep, where the conscious mind relinquishes control, allowing the unconscious to emerge in the form of dreams. He also draws a parallel to the hypnotic state, where conscious control is deliberately suspended, facilitating access to the unconscious.

Fragmentation & Isolation

Having outlined the importance of uncritical self-observation, Freud suggests a more focused approach to dream interpretation, encouraging the dreamer to break down the dream into individual fragments and explore each element in isolation.

“If I ask a patient who is as yet unpractised: ‘What occurs to you in connection with this dream?’ he is unable, as a rule, to fix upon anything in his psychic field of vision. I must first dissect the dream for him; then, in connection with each fragment, a number of thoughts occur to him which he feels as explanations…” 

This fragmented approach, he explains, allows for a more nuanced exploration of the unconscious. Freud emphasizes that the same dream element can hold different meanings depending on the individual and their personal experiences. By focusing on individual fragments, the dreamer can more readily access the network of unconscious associations connected to each element.

In essence, Freud’s method requires the dreamer to actively participate in the interpretation of their own dreams, guided by the analyst, rather than relying on external keys or interpretations. This process of free association, guided by the analyst, allows the unconscious to speak through the dreamer’s own thoughts and feelings, uncovering the hidden meaning of the dream.

“Irma’s Injection”

Freud’s psychoanalytic method is best illustrated by his detailed analysis of a dream he calls “Irma’s Injection.” This dream, he argues, is more than a random collection of images but a carefully constructed narrative that reveals a great deal about his own unconscious thoughts and desires.

To fully grasp the significance of the dream, Freud provides a thorough account of the events leading up to it. He sets the stage by introducing his patient, Irma, a young woman who is not only a patient but also a close friend of his and his family. This complex relationship, Freud emphasizes, creates a unique dynamic, involving both heightened personal interest and potential professional conflict.

He explains that Irma’s treatment has been partially successful, but not fully resolved, leaving Freud feeling uncertain about his ability to provide a complete cure. This sense of uncertainty and potential blame for her ongoing discomfort becomes a crucial element in understanding the dream’s meaning.

Predream Account

The dream itself arises in response to a conversation Freud had with his colleague, Otto, regarding Irma’s health. Otto informs Freud that Irma is “better, but not quite well”. This seemingly innocuous comment, Freud reveals, deeply annoys him. He feels a hidden reproach in Otto’s words, attributing it to the influence of Irma’s relatives who, he believes, have always disapproved of his treatment.

Later that evening, Freud writes a clinical history of Irma’s case, ostensibly to justify his treatment to another friend and colleague, Dr. M. The dream follows shortly after, revealing the anxieties and unresolved emotions stirred by the events of that day.

Freud’s Dream

“A great hall – a number of guests, whom we are receiving – among them Irma, whom I immediately take aside, as though to answer her letter, and to reproach her for not yet accepting the “solution.” I say to her: “If you still have pains, it is really only your own fault.” – She answers: “If you only knew what pains I have now in the throat, stomach, and abdomen – I am choked by them.” I am startled, and look at her. She looks pale and puffy. I think that after all I must be overlooking some organic affection. I take her to the window and look into her throat. She offers some resistance to this, like a woman who has a set of false teeth. I think, surely, she doesn’t need them.”

The dreams follows with:

“The mouth then opens wide, and I find a large white spot on the right, and elsewhere I see extensive grayish-white scabs adhering to curiously curled formations, which are evidently shaped like the turbinal bones of the nose. – I quickly call Dr. M, who repeats the examination and confirms it…. Dr. M looks quite unlike his usual self; he is very pale, he limps, and his chin is clean-shaven…. Now my friend Otto, too, is standing beside her, and my friend Leopold percusses her covered chest, and says “She has a dullness below, on the left,” and also calls attention to an infiltrated portion of skin on the left shoulder (which injection of a preparation of propyl… propyls… propionic acid… trimethylamin (the formula of which I see before me, printed in heavy type)…. One doesn’t give such injections so rashly…. Probably, too, the syringe was not clean.”

Freud’s Dream Interpretation

Freud then systematically dissects the dream, meticulously exploring each element and its associated memories and emotions, revealing the interconnected web of unconscious thoughts and feelings.

Grand Hall

The grand hall filled with guests is linked to Freud’s upcoming wife’s birthday, creating a sense of festive celebration. Irma, Freud’s patient, appears in the dream, and Freud immediately addresses her, reproaching her for not “accepting the solution”, referencing his theory that understanding the unconscious root of a neurotic symptom leads to its resolution. However, Freud also reveals that he feels a strong sense of not wanting to be blamed for Irma’s continued suffering.

Irma’s Complaints

Irma’s complaints, including pains in her throat, abdomen, and stomach, are not the same symptoms he initially treated her for. This discrepancy suggests a subconscious desire to shift the blame for her continued ailments away from himself.

Dr M.

The dream’s scene shifts to Dr. M, another colleague, and Freud’s anxiety about potentially overlooking an “organic affection”, a common fear among specialists who deal primarily with neurotic patients. This reveals Freud’s underlying anxiety of being seen as incompetent or failing to recognize a genuine physical condition.

“Quickly”

Freud’s use of the word “quickly” when he calls Dr. M to examine Irma triggers a deeply personal memory. He recalls a past medical case where his hasty use of a drug led to a patient’s poisoning, revealing a subconscious concern about his medical competence and a desire to atone for past mistakes

Otto

The dream concludes with an injection administered by Otto, a reminder of his earlier irritation with his colleague’s ambiguous comment on Irma’s health. The “injection” itself serves as a metaphor, representing Otto’s perceived careless pronouncements and Freud’s desire to rebuke him.

Trimethylamin

The chemical term “trimethylamin”  triggers a complex chain of associations. Freud links this term to a friend’s theories about sexual chemistry and then connects it to Irma’s widowhood, suggesting that her condition might be linked to her sexual status. This reveals a hidden layer of unconscious desire for Irma to be more receptive to his treatment and a subconscious desire for her to be available romantically.

Through meticulous analysis, Freud uncovers the overarching wish fulfillment at the heart of the dream:

“The dream fulfills several wishes, which were awakened within me by the events of the previous evening.” 

Absolution From Responsalities

The dream grants Freud the wish to be absolved of responsibility for Irma’s continued suffering. He shifts the blame to Otto, implying that the injection he administered was the cause of her ailments. He also portrays Irma as partly to blame, suggesting that her resistance to his treatment  is a factor in her condition. Furthermore, the dream offers a number of alternative explanations for Irma’s illness, including her widowhood, further absolving him of responsibility.

The dream also expresses Freud’s anger and resentment towards Otto, Irma, and even Dr. M, reflecting his desire to be free from these individuals who challenge his authority or contradict his ideas.

“It is as though I were to say: Rid me of these three persons, replace them by three others of my own choice, and I shall be rid of the reproaches which I am not willing to admit that I deserve!”

Professionalism

Beyond the immediate wish to be absolved of responsibility for Irma’s condition, the dream reveals a more profound underlying concern: Freud’s anxieties about his professional competence and his desire to be recognized as a capable and caring physician.

The dream showcases Freud’s concern for the health of others, including his daughter, his wife, and even a deceased patient. It also reveals his own physical ailments and anxieties about medical mistakes. These themes, interwoven with the dream’s core narrative, underscore a deeper wish to be seen as a conscientious and reliable medical practitioner, contrasting with Otto’s perceived skepticism and judgment.

While recognizing the possibility of further interpretation, Freud emphasizes the central finding of his analysis: dreams, far from being meaningless, serve as powerful expressions of our unconscious wishes and desires.

“When the work of interpretation has been completed the dream can be recognized as a wish fulfillment.”

A window to the subconscious

The “Irma’s Injection” dream and uncovering its intricate web of hidden meanings, Freud demonstrates the power of his psychoanalytic method to unveil the unconscious mind’s hidden motives and desires. He establishes a foundation for understanding dreams as a unique window into our inner selves, revealing the complexities of our subconscious thoughts and feelings.

Beyond “Irma”: Expanding the Scope 

Having laid bare the intricate wish-fulfillment dynamics in “Irma’s Injection,” Freud, in a spirit of scientific inquiry, doesn’t rest on his laurels. He seeks to understand the broader implications of his findings, questioning whether the wish-fulfillment function is a universal characteristic of dreams or a unique feature of the particular dream he analyzed.

Freud poses a pivotal question:

“Are there, then, dreams other than wish-dreams; or are there none but wish-dreams?” 

This seemingly simple query opens a gateway to a more profound exploration of the nature of dreams. It acknowledges that the “Irma’s Injection” dream, while revealing, might not be representative of all dreams. It challenges Freud to consider whether other motivations might drive dream formation, prompting him to expand his theory to encompass a wider range of dream experiences.

Convenience dreams

Freud starts by examining a category of dreams he labels “convenience dreams,” which directly address the dreamer’s immediate bodily needs during sleep. He uses his own experience with thirst as an example:

“If I succeed in appeasing my thirst by means of the dream that I am drinking, I need not wake up in order to satisfy that thirst. It is thus a dream of convenience.” 

These dreams, he explains, are driven by a straightforward desire to resolve discomfort or satisfy a need while asleep. The dream, in this case, acts as a temporary solution, a surrogate for waking action, allowing the dreamer to continue sleeping until the need becomes less urgent.

Personal example

Freud elaborates on this theme with another personal example, describing a dream where his wife provides him with a drink from a vase, an Etruscan cinerary urn, even though he no longer possesses the urn. This seemingly odd detail, Freud contends, reveals the wish-fulfillment aspect of the dream, suggesting a longing for an inaccessible object. This desire, fueled by the inconvenience of thirst and the longing for the lost urn, reveals the dream’s power to address immediate needs and latent desires, even when those desires are tied to unattainable objects.

Children Dreams & Wish-Fulfillment

Freud continues his exploration by turning to the dreams of children, arguing that, unburdened by the complex layers of adult life, these dreams offer a clearer window into the fundamental nature of wish-fulfillment.

He provides several examples, drawing from his own children and other sources:

Example of His Son

His son, disappointed by the absence of a real-life trip to the Simony hut, dreams of visiting it in his sleep. This simple dream, Freud suggests, directly fulfills the boy’s unmet desire, demonstrating the dream’s power to compensate for unmet needs.

Example of His Daughter

His daughter, drawn to a charming boy named Emil, dreams of him becoming a part of the family, awakening to a treasure trove of chocolate bars . Here, the dream fulfills the girl’s desire for a deeper connection with her friend and for the coveted treat she was denied in waking life.

Proverbs

To reinforce the universality of the wish-fulfillment concept, Freud even turns to the realm of proverbs, highlighting the everyday language’s recognition of dreams as wish fulfillments. He cites the proverb, “ ‘I should never have fancied that in the wildest dream’ exclaims one who finds his expectations surpassed in reality.” as a clear example of how the notion of dreams fulfilling desires is deeply embedded in our collective consciousness.

Even dismissive sayings about dreams, such as “dreams are bubbles,” acknowledge their fulfillment aspect, albeit ironically. This highlights the duality of how dreams are perceived: as fleeting and inconsequential on one hand, and simultaneously as powerful conduits of desires on the other.

Freud’s exploration of “convenience dreams” and children’s dreams solidifies his central argument: dreams are not meaningless random occurrences but purposeful expressions of our unconscious wishes and desires. These dreams reveal a fundamental human tendency to find fulfillment, even if only within the realm of dreams, for desires that remain unfulfilled in waking life.