Oh Deborah! I love your poetry! I read it a bunch of times! I laughed and smiled and bowed in wow. Undressing dreams naked. Anima and animus! Poet and green witch watching The partridge Family. Oh David Cassidy lol. Farah Fawcett in the red bathing suit graced my wall. The theatre indeed! Sometimes a very quick finale and sometimes a tidal tsunami of epic waves where my character keeps dying and returning as somebody else! I am writing my dreams down now! I may be in trouble lol!!!
The books have arrived and “I” have jumped in deep! 🧙🏻♀️🙏❤️
Jamie, you’re incredible! What a heartfelt reply! I’m ab-soul-utely delighted that this poem resonates with you, bringing laughter, smiles and a few 'wow' moments! ‘Undressing dreams naked’ perfectly captures the raw, unfiltered dive into the unconscious, doesn’t it? Anima and animus, poet and green witch, David and The Partridge Family, it’s amazing how the tapestries of our dreams, both waking and sleeping, are so intricately woven.
Farrah Fawcett in that red bathing suit? Iconic. *smirks* I can only imagine how she much she dominated your bedroom wall! I was bewitched by her too, though my biggest crush growing up (aside from the gorgeous David, of course) was Joyce, that beautiful woman from Hill Street Blues. It was love at first sight for me, my heart ab-soul-utely pirouetted!
The tidal waves of epic dream journeys you describe, where you keep dying and returning as someone else, feel so profound and transformative I want to say. Your dream world really does sound like a theatre of endless rebirth and metamorphosis. Writing dreams down is the best way I know to uncover their hidden layers and connect with your Self.
And the books have arrived, oooh how very exciting! It sounds like you’ve dived straight into them. I hope they inspire you my friend as you follow my dark and bright Odyssean journey. One of the best things I enjoyed in writing them, and living of course, has been to focus on the light on the horizon and watch it slowly, slowly grow. Keep me posted, dear dream chronicler! 🧙♀️✨
Ooh Veronica Hamel and those eyes Deborah! Those eyes! Bewitching indeed. One can almost not look away yet searches for the mirror inside. I always wondered why I changed characters in the dream? Like I was the whole theatre cast lol! Maybe the dream is reality and life is the illusion? Loving the books and yes I started in order! Soul poetry 🙏❤️🌀🧙🏻♀️
Yesss! It was the beautiful, bewitching Veronica Hamel, wasn’t it? I was absolutely smitten. 😍💥
Re dream characters, I’ve always loved the idea that we’re ‘the whole cast,’ and it’s so fascinating to view dreams this way. It reminds me of a moment in Dream Group, I’d arrived grumbling about a bad driver I’d just encountered, and Brenda, who ran the group, said, ‘Well, next time that happens, just tell yourself, there goes another part of me.’ It was such an eye-opening insight. 'It’s true', she continued, 'it's not just in dreams, but everywhere, we meet our selves'. I never forgot her advice, and now, whenever I see someone driving badly, I think, ‘Hmm, there goes another part of me!’ And just like that, my stress melts away.
I'm delighted that you're enjoying the books, it's more than any poet could ever wish for. 🙏❤️
Bewitching indeed. Just like dreams. I’m definitely paying more attention but in some dreams I simply sit up and say this is just a dream and I wake up missing the climax of a great story!
I definitely think the older we get, and the more we see our shadows, the less stress and anxiety one invites in. That type of awareness allows us to harmonize our autonomic nervous system a bit. Those wild pulse rushing moments of reaction have a choice ahead of them now. It’s nice to be the watcher.
The Watcher resonates so deeply with me, Jamie, as in a dream I had many moons ago, I met a poet once and he told told me his name was "The Watcher". So goosebumps here! But yes, I love 'watching' too, as an introvert is go to place.
When I was a child I had terrible nightmares until the night I got tired of being chased by the monster, that I dared myself to turn and face it, promptly dying of course. Only I didn't die, I ended up in another dream realm altogether. I'll write about it someday.
I always find it helpful to remind myself that dreams really are the theatre of the soul. When I go to sleep at night, the last thing I often say (to myself) is a little prayer to the Dream Maker, asking for a rich, guiding dream.
Deborah I am praying too! Here is to dreams as we both walk each other into the poetry of croneology. Full on witch and magik. ❤️🔥 Roots, reaching down to hell.
If only all lessons about archetypes were as entertaining and interesting as your poem. You make the work accessible to lay people. Years ago I read Robert Johnson's famous book, 'He' and 'She.' I've always thought someone should write them again from a fresher point of view -- you're someone who could do that. I'm loveing your work. Thanks for being here.
First of all, thank you so much, Stephanie, for reassuring me that my foolishness is making sense. I ab-soul-utely love Robert Johnson. I have most of his books and could listen to his old talks for hours, even years! Making Jungian psychology accessible is such a rewarding endeavour, especially since I have a strong Hermesian (Trickster) side to my nature.
You would really enjoy my third book which I've written in a similar style as this poem; it's all about finding balance between our anima and animus (our feminine and masculine sides) through what I call "The Animus Diet." If you're a little curious, I’ve shared the opening chapter on Substack, it’s a taste of what’s to come. More archetypal foolishness!
What a soap opera!! That is how it reads to me, so much drama. Now I remember why I can't watch them any more. So simple and, yet, so complex behind it all.
David Cassidy!!! Now there is a blast from the past. I still have the image of Shawn Cassidy's poster hung on the wall of my friend's room, just behind and to the side of her bed, stuck firmly in my brain. He was never my heartthrob, but lands if I don't look back and wonder how he was ever. I would be more in the David Cassidy camp, though he wasn't, either, on my radar.
Yes, what a great parallel! Thank you, Danielle. Dreams, are often like soap operas, weaving their fragmented, gloriously unhinged storylines packed full with heightened emotions, unexpected twists, and characters who may or may not make sense in the context of our waking lives. For me dreaming is like being at the theatre and watching a play unfold. Sometimes it lasts two minutes, other times, the same dream will continue all night long! I stopped watching soap operas decades ago, although I do enjoy crime and psychological dramas.
Hahaha! Getting into character with my murderous shadow, fake persona and all the other archetypes was fun (and a little bit frightening) in order to tune into my own darkness and otherness. Lol, as for David Cassidy, well I fell truly, madly, deeply in love with him as a young girl. Thanks so much for reading and your warm welcome. XO
"Gloriously unhinged..." oh my word, Sis! Your dreams are far more fantastical than my own. More often than not, I am fighting spiritually for and with children who need me, using my powers against enchantments and possessions. I guess that is my own psychodrama, which runs truer to real life than I care to reflect on.
I like crime and psychological dramas, too!! Patricia Cornwell is one of my favorite authors in this genre, I love Kay Scarpetta and her niece, Lucy, as well. Plus, I always thought I would make a great forensic scientist. Imagine THOSE dreams!!
The first crush I had as a young woman, to my recollection, was Prince. To this day. Love his talent, his music and his Soul!! I wear purple, which I rarely do anyway, every year on April 21 in his honor. XO
Wow, Danielle! Your 'regular' psychodrama (as you call it!) feels like an epic tale, where good clashes against evil in vivid, otherworldly landscapes. JRR Tolkien comes to mind with the way your mind seems to create these spiritual battles, blending heroism, struggle and deep exploration of your shadow side. It’s fascinating how shadow work manifests in dreams, it’s like our unconscious is uncovering layers of strength and wisdom we didn't know we have through these fantastical, twisty, turny dreams. I call them the spiralling journey home.
When viewed through a Jungian lens, our recurring cast of exes (deep sigh!), parents, colleagues or just familiar figures, seem to reflect archetypes and invite integration of our shadow aspects, persona, feminine and masculine sides (to name but a few) in order to promote our individuation, self-awareness and inner transformation. The clues are always left in the scenery. I'm on their forensic trail!
Talking of which, I love the grounding presence of Patricia Cornwell in your waking world. I've just had a little read about Kay Scarpetta and her niece Lucy, what brilliant characters you've delved into! Imagining yourself as a forensic scientist feels like stepping into a soul drama of your own making; yes, the dreams from that would surely be just as captivating! Many years ago in the UK we had a crime drama that I ab-soul-utely loved called 'Cracker'. I was obsessed!
And as for Prince, what a beautiful, soulful presence to have shaped your early admiration and connection to music. Honouring him with purple every April 21 is such a touching, heartfelt tribute. I can't help but notice we're fast approaching your 'purple' day. I feel the same about David Bowie and once I he came to me in a dream. Look down here my heart sang on waking, I'm in Heaven! XO
A couple of years ago over the spring, I had a dream where I birthed the most beautiful, chunkiest, sweetest baby girl I had ever seen. From the contents of the rest of the dream, I realized I had literally birthed my own power. I have also birthed my independence and my hidden self. Anyway, after that dream about birthing my power, is when these dreams about being the savior of children started. Its always different kids and different spirits, but ultimately, I save or protect them from harm.
Concurrently, around the same time, I begin to think deeply about what it was that made me good at my work - working with non-speaking children, mostly with autism, but with behaviors, cerebral palsy, and other special needs. I'm a bit of a behavior specialist. The school I am attached to makes use of me by moving me to children that need assistance. So I think a lot about why I felt so connected to them and vice versa. I firmly believe I am a little spectrumy myself and that contributes, but I also believe that it is because I was alone so much as a child and in that aloneness, I connected deeply with the spiritual world and it has never left me. I have also had all manner of real life spiritual experiences such as seeing shadow figures, demons, and witches, not to mention lots of other paranormal activity. Its obviously all connected to me and, likely, related to my spiritual connection somehow.
Oh dear! I have never had a dream about an ex, that I can recall. What a nightmare!! Yikes. I'm so sorry. I am so glad you are pursuing your dreams. How wonderful!! I often have dreams where my grandparents are visiting me to catch up with me and find out what has been going on. Since they've both been gone 30ish years, this is always a wonderful time and I wake up feeling amazing about having had some time with them.
It's been a long time since I read Cornwell, but she is an amazing writer and I've clearly connected with Scarpetta and Lucy, too. When I want to read something "fluffy" and familiar, Cornwell would be one I would pick up. I have other favorite authors in this genre, too, not exactly the same, mind you, but crime time dramas. I connect with medical stories, too, and that, I'm believing relates to me wanting to pursue being a nurse when I was a kid.
David Bowie, hmmm? Mmmm...he has some great music as well. How fun to have him come to you in a dream. XO
Danielle, what a beautiful soul you are! Reading through your reply, I was absolutely captivated! That dream about birthing your own power feels monumental, like such a huge breakthrough in self-realisation. And I love how it rippled into your saviour-of-children dreams; it’s as if your unconscious delights in showing you the heroism and connection you embody in your work. It’s no wonder you feel so deeply connected to the children you work with.
I haven’t worked with children in a few years, but I absolutely loved it during my time in. I spent several years myself working in special educational needs before qualifying as a psychotherapist. Despite its challenges, working with children was deeply rewarding, offering me so many moments of connection, growth and the chance to make a meaningful difference in their lives. Occasionally, I'll meet young people on the street and they'll say, do you remember me miss? And my heart, well my heart just opens wide!
Your spiritual experiences are fascinating! Shadow figures, witches, paranormal activity, it all sounds like it’s woven into your soul journey, gifting much depth and colour to your connection with the world. It’s incredible how it all ties back to the aloneness you felt as a child and how you’re transforming all of it into this rich and compassionate presence you hold for others.
The dreams with your grandparents are just lovely and heart-warming. It must be so comforting to spend time with them in your dream world, and I can imagine how those mornings feel, like a warm, loving hug wrapped in decades of cherished memories. Thank you so much for sharing this whirlwind of insight and memory; it’s been such a joy to read and reflect on! XO back to you.
Awww...shucks! Thank you. That is really very generous and kind of you to say.
When my first was born, I worked with him so much. When seeing the results of that work through my children, people encouraged me to teach and I always responded with no, that is not my gift, I can't see myself doing that. Then, when my oldest began school, I started volunteering there and I would drive home in tears over how rewarding it was to be around the children. I loved bumping into families in the store or at dinner and they were always SO delighted to see me, like I was some kind of superstar. It was contagious, I tell you! Eventually, I began subbing as an employee and then got hired and knew immediately I would want to be a teacher because this clearly was my work and my tribe of people. I know deep in my Soul that this is the work I was meant to do. I never question how I am with "my" kids, I just know. And they may never be able to verbalize it, either, but I know. Just as I know without a doubt that they feel loved by me.
It is a treasure to be visited by my grandparents, one that I hold dear, as I know not everyone has these kinds of experiences. They don't feel "lost" to me, as I still see them regularly and I know they are close. XO
As I dropped into your play within a play, I pondered the complexities of Active Imagination. 'Doing it' the formal (head)way just doesn't seem to move my wiley,🦊, tricky negative animus out of the way. Poetry ... verse ... mmmm ... that's a possibility. 👏
Yes, give 'creativity' go, Catherine! Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts on the thinking approach. It doesn’t work for me either, though I hadn’t quite been able to put that into words until you mentioned it. Don’t get me wrong, active imagination is most definitely in my toolbox, but working creatively with my dreams transforms them. It feels like the best way for me, and perhaps it’s a more feminine approach, if that makes sense. I love it when two souls brush up against each other and walk away forever changed. Thanks again. 💜✨💜
Wow and thank you. I've just discovered your play within a play, within a play, read it twice, (It helped me ponder last night's strange animus trickster dream) .... and hoped that your inner sound crew continue to use their 'balance' skills. 💜
Ah, you have a canny eye, dear Catherine. I wasn’t sure my play within a play within a play would be spotted! As a huge Shakespeare fan, I made the connection some time ago. It’s a difficult script to follow, so I doff my cap to you, fair lady. It's always lovely to see you here!
I began working creatively with my dreams some time ago in order to uncover what they were trying to tell me. Jung’s concept of Active Imagination, I suspect, might be a form of what I’m doing. For in my poems and stories, something profound often seems to happen
- the dreams begin to unfold, sometimes just a corner, other times much more.
Oh, that bloody shadow of mine will be the death of me! Don't worry, I have several sets of eyes on her, including my sound crew! 💜
Oh my gosh, reading this is like walking through a hall of mirrors. You may have mentioned David, but I'm still crushing on Shaun Cassidy 🤣 This was detailed & animated & beautiful.
Thank you so much, Maryellen. I'm delighted that you enjoyed my gloriously unhinged psychological farce ... dreams are the lifeblood of so many of my stories and poems! It's no wonder they inspire countless writers and artists. I'm currently rewatching David Lynch's epic 'Twin Peaks' box set, and it strikes me how dreams were the cornerstone of his creative genius.
As yours is the second mention of Shaun Cassidy, I couldn’t help but wander over to Wikipedia ... and got the shock of my life! I was marvelling at how similar they look, until I discovered they’re actually half-brothers. Here in the UK many a teenage girl (and a few boys no doubt!) were truly, madly, deeply in love with the animated and beautiful, David.
Ah, I see, thanks for filling in the gaps, Maryellen. Wow, what a fascinating family! Re dreams, you’re so right; when I worked in an art gallery a few years ago, I had countless conversations with artists about how their art had emerged from their dreams. At the time, I didn’t quite make the connection with my own poems, but that’s definitely changed now. These days, I’m fully in the picture, or rather, the theatre of dreams, and find myself paying close attention to black cats with their silver tinkling bells! 🐈⬛🎭🙏
Hi Deborah, a lot of energy in this poem and a fun read. Shakespeare’s lyrical wisdom popped into my head: “All the world’s a stage/And all the men and women are merely players … this strange and eventful history … “ 😊🙏💜
Yes, exactly, Simone! Shakespeare seemed to understand the deep, mysterious pull of dreams and used them to shape his stories in remarkable ways. For example 'In A Midsummer Night's Dream', dreams take on an almost magical quality, blurring reality and fantasy, while in 'Macbeth', they reveal inner turmoil and prophecy, driving the characters toward their fates. It's as if he saw dreams as the perfect canvas to explore the complexity of human emotions and the supernatural.
And in pure synchronicity, as always is the case, Shakespeare's birthday fast approaches and last night, just last night, me and my wife were talking about booking tickets this summer to see the RSC's production of 'The Winter's Tale'. Honestly, you can't make this stuff up! So, as soon as the booking office opens today, I'm going to try and book us some tickets. I feel gently nudged to do so! In the words and wisdom of the bard himself, "It is an heretic that makes the fire, not she which burns in it." 🎭💜🧙♀️
Hi Deborah, yes, l am familiar with many of Shakespeare’s plays and sonnets, he is a favourite, as is William Blake … this stemmed from my high school days, studying literature at uni, and then as an English teacher … and general reader. I loved the challenge of teaching Shakespeare to kids who thought they wouldn’t enjoy the plays. In all my years teaching, the students always finished loving whatever play we were studying. Hope you got the tickets, l used to love seeing Shakespeare in the Melbourne Botanical gardens during Summer. Any live performance Shakespeare is a treat 😊. As Hamlet says, “ a dream itself is but a shadow … “. 🙏🏼😊💜
Oh, so much poetic swooning over here, Simone! I ab-soul-utely adore connecting with fellow Bard lovers. I’ll never forget the first time I saw a play by Shakespeare on a school trip, it was the wonderful, farcical, Taming of the Shrew. While much of it went over my young head at the time, the language was simply enchanting. Oh my goodness and goddess, I was utterly transfixed in my seat, lost in the words and world of a creative genius! Oh, how language fails me!
It’s still early here in the UK, but as soon as the RSC box office opens, I’ll be ready and waiting. Believe me, I’ll be first in the queue! This play will be worth every moment of the wait. Until then ...
"Parting is such sweet sorrow, that I shall say good night till it be morrow." 🙏🏼😊💜
Have a great day … it’s nearly night here thank goodness, 🤣… l am in Melbourne at my sister’s place, spent the day with her 4 grand kids. Heart full and exhausted… and full of chocolate 🤣🤣🥰🙏🏼
Many thanks, Simone. Mmm, love and chocolate, what a delicious combo! I was just pulling my boots on and heading out the door with the photographer on another walk across the valley where we live but remembered ... we have a call to make. Wish me luck! 🥰🙏🏼🎟️
This reminds me so much of Dallergut Dream Department Store by Miye Lee. The angle is different. I think you would find it interesting. I so love that last verse.
Thank you so much, Charles for your lovely feedback. I haven't heard of the book by Miye, but I'll wander over to Amazon later and take a look. The entire poem was so much fun to write! Re the last verse, just had to bring the tomcat with his silver tinkling bell back to the stage! 🎭
Indeed! I was flicking through poetry books earlier to look for a quote to help shine a light on said tom cat when I saw those bracketed words and whooped with delight! 🐈⬛
Hahaha! I truly believe this is 'all' of our shows, every night, Kristin - filled with quirky and captivating variations! These days, I dream in equal measure, dark and light, thank goodness! As you know, some poems and stories are fun to write, and this one, much like Dorothy's mayhem, was pure joy! Thanks so much for your lovely feedback. :)
It's theater season, dear poet. My friend is directing a ballet. When I was a girl I loved taking part in Gilbert and Sullivan plays with all the costumes and make-up. Your play feels like music ending with the jingle of the Tomcat's bell. The archetypes seem too complex to understand until the poet puts them in a play. Thank you, dear poet. So much fun except that for edgy animus, but we'll forgive him. His part is essential in this play and in my play. With love and wonder as we try to keep our head straight in my confused and angry country.
Hello my dear friend! It's always so lovely to see you here! Thanks so much for hopping over, Elaine. Ah, the archetypes, always twisting and turning, rehearsing their grand entrances. And the animus, edgy as ever, stomping around in boots too loud for the scene, but alas, without him, the play wouldn’t feel complete. Yes, we’ll forgive him his dramatic flair, especially since he has the nerve to take centre stage in both your theatre and mine!
Sending you much love, light and a sprinkling of poetic mischief, as we navigate this tangled plot in our countries’ shared productions. After all, the curtain’s still up, and the show ... well the show must go on! 🎭
Aww, many thanks, dear Elaine! This is when I wished I lived near by, because if I could, I would swim the oceans and mountains between us, just to give a big hug and chat and eat cake for hours! x
Dear Deborah, your post reminds me of the first time I imagined the world as a vast stage. I was in high school, reading Arthur Schopenhauer :)), and I envisioned life as a spectacle, where everyone has a role to play in an existential drama where we are both actors and spectators. I’ve always enjoyed my "night" life, and (now) dreams have become an important part of understanding myself.
Your post resonated with me so deeply because of the diversity of roles we get to play, offering hints that we are more than just our daily lives. Ah, all the archetypes—always learning and finding something new. It's magic! I adore this part of my life, the second act—it’s better than I ever imagined, thanks to all the dreams, symbols, and the hidden, lovely parts of myself I have the pleasure and chance to discover, interpret, and dive into. The intuition! Less mind, more heart.
I still have some articles to finish on dreams and tarot, and your post has inspired me to continue writing them. In doing so, I’m reimagining the performance that continues to shape our waking lives. Thank you for the poetry, the subtle psychology, and the kindness in your tone, which gives perspective to all aspects of life—by day or by night. Thank you, warm hugs!
Dear Katerina, your reply is like a breath of fresh air, so thoughtful and inspiring! I’m deeply touched that my post resonated with you and helped connect you to such vital reflections from your own life. The way you envisioned the world as a stage, inspired by Schopenhauer, holds such a deep and poetic perspective. It beautifully captures the complexity of human existence, where we are both participants and observers in the drama of life. No wonder dreams are the theatre of the soul. Shakespeare, he knew!
I absolutely love how you’ve embraced your "night" life and the treasures your dreams offer. No less than a second act full of discovery, magic, and intuition! Less mind, more heart indeed - it’s such a beautiful, soulful way to experience life and reconnect with those hidden, lovely parts of ourselves. I say this because people forget the archetypal shadow isn't all dark, it's light too. That journey of understanding archetypes, symbols and dreams is nothing short of extraordinary. Working with them creatively is changing my life.
Even better, it’s wonderful to hear that my post has inspired you to continue writing articles on dreams and tarot. I can only imagine how much insight and depth you will bring to your work, which I cannot wait to read! Reimagining the performance of our waking lives through the lens of the unconscious feels like a metamorphosis. Your kind-hearted and thoughtful words mean so much to me, and I’m incredibly grateful for the warmth and encouragement you’ve shared. Sending warm hugs right back to you!
Oh Deborah! I love your poetry! I read it a bunch of times! I laughed and smiled and bowed in wow. Undressing dreams naked. Anima and animus! Poet and green witch watching The partridge Family. Oh David Cassidy lol. Farah Fawcett in the red bathing suit graced my wall. The theatre indeed! Sometimes a very quick finale and sometimes a tidal tsunami of epic waves where my character keeps dying and returning as somebody else! I am writing my dreams down now! I may be in trouble lol!!!
The books have arrived and “I” have jumped in deep! 🧙🏻♀️🙏❤️
Jamie, you’re incredible! What a heartfelt reply! I’m ab-soul-utely delighted that this poem resonates with you, bringing laughter, smiles and a few 'wow' moments! ‘Undressing dreams naked’ perfectly captures the raw, unfiltered dive into the unconscious, doesn’t it? Anima and animus, poet and green witch, David and The Partridge Family, it’s amazing how the tapestries of our dreams, both waking and sleeping, are so intricately woven.
Farrah Fawcett in that red bathing suit? Iconic. *smirks* I can only imagine how she much she dominated your bedroom wall! I was bewitched by her too, though my biggest crush growing up (aside from the gorgeous David, of course) was Joyce, that beautiful woman from Hill Street Blues. It was love at first sight for me, my heart ab-soul-utely pirouetted!
The tidal waves of epic dream journeys you describe, where you keep dying and returning as someone else, feel so profound and transformative I want to say. Your dream world really does sound like a theatre of endless rebirth and metamorphosis. Writing dreams down is the best way I know to uncover their hidden layers and connect with your Self.
And the books have arrived, oooh how very exciting! It sounds like you’ve dived straight into them. I hope they inspire you my friend as you follow my dark and bright Odyssean journey. One of the best things I enjoyed in writing them, and living of course, has been to focus on the light on the horizon and watch it slowly, slowly grow. Keep me posted, dear dream chronicler! 🧙♀️✨
Ooh Veronica Hamel and those eyes Deborah! Those eyes! Bewitching indeed. One can almost not look away yet searches for the mirror inside. I always wondered why I changed characters in the dream? Like I was the whole theatre cast lol! Maybe the dream is reality and life is the illusion? Loving the books and yes I started in order! Soul poetry 🙏❤️🌀🧙🏻♀️
Yesss! It was the beautiful, bewitching Veronica Hamel, wasn’t it? I was absolutely smitten. 😍💥
Re dream characters, I’ve always loved the idea that we’re ‘the whole cast,’ and it’s so fascinating to view dreams this way. It reminds me of a moment in Dream Group, I’d arrived grumbling about a bad driver I’d just encountered, and Brenda, who ran the group, said, ‘Well, next time that happens, just tell yourself, there goes another part of me.’ It was such an eye-opening insight. 'It’s true', she continued, 'it's not just in dreams, but everywhere, we meet our selves'. I never forgot her advice, and now, whenever I see someone driving badly, I think, ‘Hmm, there goes another part of me!’ And just like that, my stress melts away.
I'm delighted that you're enjoying the books, it's more than any poet could ever wish for. 🙏❤️
Bewitching indeed. Just like dreams. I’m definitely paying more attention but in some dreams I simply sit up and say this is just a dream and I wake up missing the climax of a great story!
I definitely think the older we get, and the more we see our shadows, the less stress and anxiety one invites in. That type of awareness allows us to harmonize our autonomic nervous system a bit. Those wild pulse rushing moments of reaction have a choice ahead of them now. It’s nice to be the watcher.
The Watcher resonates so deeply with me, Jamie, as in a dream I had many moons ago, I met a poet once and he told told me his name was "The Watcher". So goosebumps here! But yes, I love 'watching' too, as an introvert is go to place.
When I was a child I had terrible nightmares until the night I got tired of being chased by the monster, that I dared myself to turn and face it, promptly dying of course. Only I didn't die, I ended up in another dream realm altogether. I'll write about it someday.
I always find it helpful to remind myself that dreams really are the theatre of the soul. When I go to sleep at night, the last thing I often say (to myself) is a little prayer to the Dream Maker, asking for a rich, guiding dream.
Deborah I am praying too! Here is to dreams as we both walk each other into the poetry of croneology. Full on witch and magik. ❤️🔥 Roots, reaching down to hell.
You know I had to chime in *shaking my head* - you missed the climax (of the story)? Nnnnnooooooooooo!! Tee hee.
I'm sure there were plenty of clues, such that you didn't miss the lesson ;-O XO
😂😎❤️
If only all lessons about archetypes were as entertaining and interesting as your poem. You make the work accessible to lay people. Years ago I read Robert Johnson's famous book, 'He' and 'She.' I've always thought someone should write them again from a fresher point of view -- you're someone who could do that. I'm loveing your work. Thanks for being here.
First of all, thank you so much, Stephanie, for reassuring me that my foolishness is making sense. I ab-soul-utely love Robert Johnson. I have most of his books and could listen to his old talks for hours, even years! Making Jungian psychology accessible is such a rewarding endeavour, especially since I have a strong Hermesian (Trickster) side to my nature.
You would really enjoy my third book which I've written in a similar style as this poem; it's all about finding balance between our anima and animus (our feminine and masculine sides) through what I call "The Animus Diet." If you're a little curious, I’ve shared the opening chapter on Substack, it’s a taste of what’s to come. More archetypal foolishness!
What a soap opera!! That is how it reads to me, so much drama. Now I remember why I can't watch them any more. So simple and, yet, so complex behind it all.
David Cassidy!!! Now there is a blast from the past. I still have the image of Shawn Cassidy's poster hung on the wall of my friend's room, just behind and to the side of her bed, stuck firmly in my brain. He was never my heartthrob, but lands if I don't look back and wonder how he was ever. I would be more in the David Cassidy camp, though he wasn't, either, on my radar.
Thanks for sharing this wonderful poem!! XO
Yes, what a great parallel! Thank you, Danielle. Dreams, are often like soap operas, weaving their fragmented, gloriously unhinged storylines packed full with heightened emotions, unexpected twists, and characters who may or may not make sense in the context of our waking lives. For me dreaming is like being at the theatre and watching a play unfold. Sometimes it lasts two minutes, other times, the same dream will continue all night long! I stopped watching soap operas decades ago, although I do enjoy crime and psychological dramas.
Hahaha! Getting into character with my murderous shadow, fake persona and all the other archetypes was fun (and a little bit frightening) in order to tune into my own darkness and otherness. Lol, as for David Cassidy, well I fell truly, madly, deeply in love with him as a young girl. Thanks so much for reading and your warm welcome. XO
"Gloriously unhinged..." oh my word, Sis! Your dreams are far more fantastical than my own. More often than not, I am fighting spiritually for and with children who need me, using my powers against enchantments and possessions. I guess that is my own psychodrama, which runs truer to real life than I care to reflect on.
I like crime and psychological dramas, too!! Patricia Cornwell is one of my favorite authors in this genre, I love Kay Scarpetta and her niece, Lucy, as well. Plus, I always thought I would make a great forensic scientist. Imagine THOSE dreams!!
The first crush I had as a young woman, to my recollection, was Prince. To this day. Love his talent, his music and his Soul!! I wear purple, which I rarely do anyway, every year on April 21 in his honor. XO
Wow, Danielle! Your 'regular' psychodrama (as you call it!) feels like an epic tale, where good clashes against evil in vivid, otherworldly landscapes. JRR Tolkien comes to mind with the way your mind seems to create these spiritual battles, blending heroism, struggle and deep exploration of your shadow side. It’s fascinating how shadow work manifests in dreams, it’s like our unconscious is uncovering layers of strength and wisdom we didn't know we have through these fantastical, twisty, turny dreams. I call them the spiralling journey home.
When viewed through a Jungian lens, our recurring cast of exes (deep sigh!), parents, colleagues or just familiar figures, seem to reflect archetypes and invite integration of our shadow aspects, persona, feminine and masculine sides (to name but a few) in order to promote our individuation, self-awareness and inner transformation. The clues are always left in the scenery. I'm on their forensic trail!
Talking of which, I love the grounding presence of Patricia Cornwell in your waking world. I've just had a little read about Kay Scarpetta and her niece Lucy, what brilliant characters you've delved into! Imagining yourself as a forensic scientist feels like stepping into a soul drama of your own making; yes, the dreams from that would surely be just as captivating! Many years ago in the UK we had a crime drama that I ab-soul-utely loved called 'Cracker'. I was obsessed!
And as for Prince, what a beautiful, soulful presence to have shaped your early admiration and connection to music. Honouring him with purple every April 21 is such a touching, heartfelt tribute. I can't help but notice we're fast approaching your 'purple' day. I feel the same about David Bowie and once I he came to me in a dream. Look down here my heart sang on waking, I'm in Heaven! XO
A couple of years ago over the spring, I had a dream where I birthed the most beautiful, chunkiest, sweetest baby girl I had ever seen. From the contents of the rest of the dream, I realized I had literally birthed my own power. I have also birthed my independence and my hidden self. Anyway, after that dream about birthing my power, is when these dreams about being the savior of children started. Its always different kids and different spirits, but ultimately, I save or protect them from harm.
Concurrently, around the same time, I begin to think deeply about what it was that made me good at my work - working with non-speaking children, mostly with autism, but with behaviors, cerebral palsy, and other special needs. I'm a bit of a behavior specialist. The school I am attached to makes use of me by moving me to children that need assistance. So I think a lot about why I felt so connected to them and vice versa. I firmly believe I am a little spectrumy myself and that contributes, but I also believe that it is because I was alone so much as a child and in that aloneness, I connected deeply with the spiritual world and it has never left me. I have also had all manner of real life spiritual experiences such as seeing shadow figures, demons, and witches, not to mention lots of other paranormal activity. Its obviously all connected to me and, likely, related to my spiritual connection somehow.
Oh dear! I have never had a dream about an ex, that I can recall. What a nightmare!! Yikes. I'm so sorry. I am so glad you are pursuing your dreams. How wonderful!! I often have dreams where my grandparents are visiting me to catch up with me and find out what has been going on. Since they've both been gone 30ish years, this is always a wonderful time and I wake up feeling amazing about having had some time with them.
It's been a long time since I read Cornwell, but she is an amazing writer and I've clearly connected with Scarpetta and Lucy, too. When I want to read something "fluffy" and familiar, Cornwell would be one I would pick up. I have other favorite authors in this genre, too, not exactly the same, mind you, but crime time dramas. I connect with medical stories, too, and that, I'm believing relates to me wanting to pursue being a nurse when I was a kid.
David Bowie, hmmm? Mmmm...he has some great music as well. How fun to have him come to you in a dream. XO
Danielle, what a beautiful soul you are! Reading through your reply, I was absolutely captivated! That dream about birthing your own power feels monumental, like such a huge breakthrough in self-realisation. And I love how it rippled into your saviour-of-children dreams; it’s as if your unconscious delights in showing you the heroism and connection you embody in your work. It’s no wonder you feel so deeply connected to the children you work with.
I haven’t worked with children in a few years, but I absolutely loved it during my time in. I spent several years myself working in special educational needs before qualifying as a psychotherapist. Despite its challenges, working with children was deeply rewarding, offering me so many moments of connection, growth and the chance to make a meaningful difference in their lives. Occasionally, I'll meet young people on the street and they'll say, do you remember me miss? And my heart, well my heart just opens wide!
Your spiritual experiences are fascinating! Shadow figures, witches, paranormal activity, it all sounds like it’s woven into your soul journey, gifting much depth and colour to your connection with the world. It’s incredible how it all ties back to the aloneness you felt as a child and how you’re transforming all of it into this rich and compassionate presence you hold for others.
The dreams with your grandparents are just lovely and heart-warming. It must be so comforting to spend time with them in your dream world, and I can imagine how those mornings feel, like a warm, loving hug wrapped in decades of cherished memories. Thank you so much for sharing this whirlwind of insight and memory; it’s been such a joy to read and reflect on! XO back to you.
Awww...shucks! Thank you. That is really very generous and kind of you to say.
When my first was born, I worked with him so much. When seeing the results of that work through my children, people encouraged me to teach and I always responded with no, that is not my gift, I can't see myself doing that. Then, when my oldest began school, I started volunteering there and I would drive home in tears over how rewarding it was to be around the children. I loved bumping into families in the store or at dinner and they were always SO delighted to see me, like I was some kind of superstar. It was contagious, I tell you! Eventually, I began subbing as an employee and then got hired and knew immediately I would want to be a teacher because this clearly was my work and my tribe of people. I know deep in my Soul that this is the work I was meant to do. I never question how I am with "my" kids, I just know. And they may never be able to verbalize it, either, but I know. Just as I know without a doubt that they feel loved by me.
It is a treasure to be visited by my grandparents, one that I hold dear, as I know not everyone has these kinds of experiences. They don't feel "lost" to me, as I still see them regularly and I know they are close. XO
As I dropped into your play within a play, I pondered the complexities of Active Imagination. 'Doing it' the formal (head)way just doesn't seem to move my wiley,🦊, tricky negative animus out of the way. Poetry ... verse ... mmmm ... that's a possibility. 👏
Yes, give 'creativity' go, Catherine! Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts on the thinking approach. It doesn’t work for me either, though I hadn’t quite been able to put that into words until you mentioned it. Don’t get me wrong, active imagination is most definitely in my toolbox, but working creatively with my dreams transforms them. It feels like the best way for me, and perhaps it’s a more feminine approach, if that makes sense. I love it when two souls brush up against each other and walk away forever changed. Thanks again. 💜✨💜
Meanwhile, backstage,
the sound crew press mute
to make sure the shadow
doesn’t steal any more lines,
ensuring the poet’s heart
rises and falls rhythmically.
Wow and thank you. I've just discovered your play within a play, within a play, read it twice, (It helped me ponder last night's strange animus trickster dream) .... and hoped that your inner sound crew continue to use their 'balance' skills. 💜
Ah, you have a canny eye, dear Catherine. I wasn’t sure my play within a play within a play would be spotted! As a huge Shakespeare fan, I made the connection some time ago. It’s a difficult script to follow, so I doff my cap to you, fair lady. It's always lovely to see you here!
I began working creatively with my dreams some time ago in order to uncover what they were trying to tell me. Jung’s concept of Active Imagination, I suspect, might be a form of what I’m doing. For in my poems and stories, something profound often seems to happen
- the dreams begin to unfold, sometimes just a corner, other times much more.
Oh, that bloody shadow of mine will be the death of me! Don't worry, I have several sets of eyes on her, including my sound crew! 💜
Oh my gosh, reading this is like walking through a hall of mirrors. You may have mentioned David, but I'm still crushing on Shaun Cassidy 🤣 This was detailed & animated & beautiful.
Thank you so much, Maryellen. I'm delighted that you enjoyed my gloriously unhinged psychological farce ... dreams are the lifeblood of so many of my stories and poems! It's no wonder they inspire countless writers and artists. I'm currently rewatching David Lynch's epic 'Twin Peaks' box set, and it strikes me how dreams were the cornerstone of his creative genius.
As yours is the second mention of Shaun Cassidy, I couldn’t help but wander over to Wikipedia ... and got the shock of my life! I was marvelling at how similar they look, until I discovered they’re actually half-brothers. Here in the UK many a teenage girl (and a few boys no doubt!) were truly, madly, deeply in love with the animated and beautiful, David.
They were half brothers, same dad. Shirley Jones is Shaun's mom, soooo lots of talent!
Dreams are important to all the creative, even the ones that claim not to remember them 😉
Ah, I see, thanks for filling in the gaps, Maryellen. Wow, what a fascinating family! Re dreams, you’re so right; when I worked in an art gallery a few years ago, I had countless conversations with artists about how their art had emerged from their dreams. At the time, I didn’t quite make the connection with my own poems, but that’s definitely changed now. These days, I’m fully in the picture, or rather, the theatre of dreams, and find myself paying close attention to black cats with their silver tinkling bells! 🐈⬛🎭🙏
Hi Deborah, a lot of energy in this poem and a fun read. Shakespeare’s lyrical wisdom popped into my head: “All the world’s a stage/And all the men and women are merely players … this strange and eventful history … “ 😊🙏💜
Yes, exactly, Simone! Shakespeare seemed to understand the deep, mysterious pull of dreams and used them to shape his stories in remarkable ways. For example 'In A Midsummer Night's Dream', dreams take on an almost magical quality, blurring reality and fantasy, while in 'Macbeth', they reveal inner turmoil and prophecy, driving the characters toward their fates. It's as if he saw dreams as the perfect canvas to explore the complexity of human emotions and the supernatural.
And in pure synchronicity, as always is the case, Shakespeare's birthday fast approaches and last night, just last night, me and my wife were talking about booking tickets this summer to see the RSC's production of 'The Winter's Tale'. Honestly, you can't make this stuff up! So, as soon as the booking office opens today, I'm going to try and book us some tickets. I feel gently nudged to do so! In the words and wisdom of the bard himself, "It is an heretic that makes the fire, not she which burns in it." 🎭💜🧙♀️
Hi Deborah, yes, l am familiar with many of Shakespeare’s plays and sonnets, he is a favourite, as is William Blake … this stemmed from my high school days, studying literature at uni, and then as an English teacher … and general reader. I loved the challenge of teaching Shakespeare to kids who thought they wouldn’t enjoy the plays. In all my years teaching, the students always finished loving whatever play we were studying. Hope you got the tickets, l used to love seeing Shakespeare in the Melbourne Botanical gardens during Summer. Any live performance Shakespeare is a treat 😊. As Hamlet says, “ a dream itself is but a shadow … “. 🙏🏼😊💜
Oh, so much poetic swooning over here, Simone! I ab-soul-utely adore connecting with fellow Bard lovers. I’ll never forget the first time I saw a play by Shakespeare on a school trip, it was the wonderful, farcical, Taming of the Shrew. While much of it went over my young head at the time, the language was simply enchanting. Oh my goodness and goddess, I was utterly transfixed in my seat, lost in the words and world of a creative genius! Oh, how language fails me!
It’s still early here in the UK, but as soon as the RSC box office opens, I’ll be ready and waiting. Believe me, I’ll be first in the queue! This play will be worth every moment of the wait. Until then ...
"Parting is such sweet sorrow, that I shall say good night till it be morrow." 🙏🏼😊💜
Have a great day … it’s nearly night here thank goodness, 🤣… l am in Melbourne at my sister’s place, spent the day with her 4 grand kids. Heart full and exhausted… and full of chocolate 🤣🤣🥰🙏🏼
Many thanks, Simone. Mmm, love and chocolate, what a delicious combo! I was just pulling my boots on and heading out the door with the photographer on another walk across the valley where we live but remembered ... we have a call to make. Wish me luck! 🥰🙏🏼🎟️
Good luck and happy valley-ing, you two 😊🙏🏼💚
This reminds me so much of Dallergut Dream Department Store by Miye Lee. The angle is different. I think you would find it interesting. I so love that last verse.
Thank you so much, Charles for your lovely feedback. I haven't heard of the book by Miye, but I'll wander over to Amazon later and take a look. The entire poem was so much fun to write! Re the last verse, just had to bring the tomcat with his silver tinkling bell back to the stage! 🎭
The Tom cat says so much about dreams, the symbols, the structure of dreams.
Yes, he does! 🐈⬛
In the words and wisdom of Walt Whitman, “I am large, I contain multitudes.”
I love that quote. It takes down down down deeply in
Indeed! I was flicking through poetry books earlier to look for a quote to help shine a light on said tom cat when I saw those bracketed words and whooped with delight! 🐈⬛
It's like you are in my head taking notes! Really enjoyed this. I learned and laughed a lot – nodding in awe at how relatable this show is.
Hahaha! I truly believe this is 'all' of our shows, every night, Kristin - filled with quirky and captivating variations! These days, I dream in equal measure, dark and light, thank goodness! As you know, some poems and stories are fun to write, and this one, much like Dorothy's mayhem, was pure joy! Thanks so much for your lovely feedback. :)
Excellent and fun. It felt like going to a musical comedy--maybe Gilbert and Sullivan.
It's theater season, dear poet. My friend is directing a ballet. When I was a girl I loved taking part in Gilbert and Sullivan plays with all the costumes and make-up. Your play feels like music ending with the jingle of the Tomcat's bell. The archetypes seem too complex to understand until the poet puts them in a play. Thank you, dear poet. So much fun except that for edgy animus, but we'll forgive him. His part is essential in this play and in my play. With love and wonder as we try to keep our head straight in my confused and angry country.
Hello my dear friend! It's always so lovely to see you here! Thanks so much for hopping over, Elaine. Ah, the archetypes, always twisting and turning, rehearsing their grand entrances. And the animus, edgy as ever, stomping around in boots too loud for the scene, but alas, without him, the play wouldn’t feel complete. Yes, we’ll forgive him his dramatic flair, especially since he has the nerve to take centre stage in both your theatre and mine!
Sending you much love, light and a sprinkling of poetic mischief, as we navigate this tangled plot in our countries’ shared productions. After all, the curtain’s still up, and the show ... well the show must go on! 🎭
The show will go on whether we like the plot or not. Your poem is an antidote for the fear that's nested in my belly.
Aww, many thanks, dear Elaine! This is when I wished I lived near by, because if I could, I would swim the oceans and mountains between us, just to give a big hug and chat and eat cake for hours! x
Dear Deborah, your post reminds me of the first time I imagined the world as a vast stage. I was in high school, reading Arthur Schopenhauer :)), and I envisioned life as a spectacle, where everyone has a role to play in an existential drama where we are both actors and spectators. I’ve always enjoyed my "night" life, and (now) dreams have become an important part of understanding myself.
Your post resonated with me so deeply because of the diversity of roles we get to play, offering hints that we are more than just our daily lives. Ah, all the archetypes—always learning and finding something new. It's magic! I adore this part of my life, the second act—it’s better than I ever imagined, thanks to all the dreams, symbols, and the hidden, lovely parts of myself I have the pleasure and chance to discover, interpret, and dive into. The intuition! Less mind, more heart.
I still have some articles to finish on dreams and tarot, and your post has inspired me to continue writing them. In doing so, I’m reimagining the performance that continues to shape our waking lives. Thank you for the poetry, the subtle psychology, and the kindness in your tone, which gives perspective to all aspects of life—by day or by night. Thank you, warm hugs!
Dear Katerina, your reply is like a breath of fresh air, so thoughtful and inspiring! I’m deeply touched that my post resonated with you and helped connect you to such vital reflections from your own life. The way you envisioned the world as a stage, inspired by Schopenhauer, holds such a deep and poetic perspective. It beautifully captures the complexity of human existence, where we are both participants and observers in the drama of life. No wonder dreams are the theatre of the soul. Shakespeare, he knew!
I absolutely love how you’ve embraced your "night" life and the treasures your dreams offer. No less than a second act full of discovery, magic, and intuition! Less mind, more heart indeed - it’s such a beautiful, soulful way to experience life and reconnect with those hidden, lovely parts of ourselves. I say this because people forget the archetypal shadow isn't all dark, it's light too. That journey of understanding archetypes, symbols and dreams is nothing short of extraordinary. Working with them creatively is changing my life.
Even better, it’s wonderful to hear that my post has inspired you to continue writing articles on dreams and tarot. I can only imagine how much insight and depth you will bring to your work, which I cannot wait to read! Reimagining the performance of our waking lives through the lens of the unconscious feels like a metamorphosis. Your kind-hearted and thoughtful words mean so much to me, and I’m incredibly grateful for the warmth and encouragement you’ve shared. Sending warm hugs right back to you!
Daring dream drama,
dressed-up divas backstage dance,
Out of the spotlight.
...
Imagination,
dangerous delights deep dive,
active as it gets!
Can I laugh, Marisol? Not at you but with you, as your haiku reply is so brilliantly funny! Thank you for the heart smile. ❤️
May we delight in
this theater’s lighter acts.
Tragicomedy.
Ab-soul-utely! 🎭