How can we define the sequential organization of dreams?

A method is proposed for defining the sequential organization of reported dreams, using categories of connection between successive events and a schematic representation of the event sequence. The analysis is based on segmenting the dream report into semiotic units, not linguistic ones, and relies on material collected in an interview the day after the dream recording. Examples show that semantic links connect successive scenes that appear completely discontinuous from a narrative point of view.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Little is known about the processes of sequential organization of dreams. To conduct experiments aimed at studying how this organization compares with that of waking narrative or day-dreams and whether it is specific to individuals or to phases of sleep, a preliminary analysis must be accomplished. We must be able to define the sequential organization of reported dreams. The present paper proposes a way to define this aspect of dreams, using different categories of connection between the successive events represented and a schematic representation of the sequence of events constituting the dream. Such analyses are based on a segmentation of the dream report into units at a semiotic level which does not correspond to the linguistic units of the report. Material collected in an interview on the day following the dream recording helps us to analyze the sequential organization. Examples of the method of definition of this organization are given. An analysis of the example shows that semantic links connect successive scenes of the dream that seem completely discontinuous from a narrative point of view.