Editorial methodology

How do we build each entry of the Dream Dictionary?

1. At least three perspectives per symbol

Each symbol is analysed through at least two to three distinct perspectives:

• Psychoanalytic: we draw directly on the writings of Sigmund Freud (The Interpretation of Dreams) and Carl Gustav Jung (Man and His Symbols, Psychology and Alchemy) to contextualise interpretations. Every reference is identified.
• Traditional / oneirocritic: popular and medieval interpretive traditions (oneirocriticism, symbolic bestiaries) bring a distinct historical and cultural light.
• Cultural and religious: when Islamic, Christian, Buddhist or other traditions offer significant insight, we include them and identify them explicitly. These perspectives are presented in a neutral, descriptive way — never prescriptive.

2. Cited and verifiable sources

Each entry has a Sources and references section listing the works and traditions the analysis relies on. We do not aggregate without attribution: every interpretation is tied to an identifiable source or tradition.

3. Mandatory human editorial review

No entry is published without human editorial review. The “reviewed” status is a condition of publication: a page being drafted is never publicly accessible.

4. What we do not interpret

Dream interpretation is a symbolic and cultural practice, not a science. We make no medical or psychological diagnosis, and we state this explicitly on every entry (disclaimer). In case of distress related to sleep or recurring nightmares, consult a healthcare professional.

5. Updates

Each entry displays a publication date and a last-updated date. We regularly revise content in light of advances in dream research and reader feedback.