Dreams have been responsible for 2 Nobel prizes, the invention of several major drugs and innumerable works of music, plays, literature, art, science and technology.
So, why are dreams so creative?
Much of the significance in dreaming lies in the fact that our dreams allow our minds to access higher levels of creativity through the power of the subconscious mind. Instead of utilizing linear thought processes, which typically govern our minds during waking life - our dreams allow us to disconnect from the socially constructed perspectives we typically adhere to. Interestingly, dreams have an amazing track record in promoting brilliant discoveries and observations. For instance, inventions such as the sewing machine, Einsteins theory of Special Relativity, and even the Strange Case of Dr. Jeckyl and Mr. Hyde, were all inspired by dreams.
In waking life, we tend to become very logic-centric. However, our minds require high levels of freedom to express themselves in order to experience the deepest levels of creativity.
“Don't be satisfied with stories, how things
have gone with others. Unfold your own myth.”
-Rumi
The right brain hemisphere - known for its creative faculties, and the left brain - known for being logical functions are both very important to human life, and any successful pursuit requires the use of both. But due to lifestyle routine in today’s society, most people gravitate towards left brain thinking, which probably has something to do with the fact that most careers do not require people to perform creatively.
Luckily however, our dreams help us to maintain a balance between the left and right brain hemispheres as well as their respective purpose. You could say that our dreams help bring balance to the force of our minds. They arrange our structured thinking in new and unique ways that often help us to problem solve at higher levels of creativity.
Some people take an interest in developing better dream recall, or even begin to attempt to lucid dream just as a way to heighten creativity. Several of the greatest inventors and artist's paid close attention to their dreams because of the brilliant ideas they recognized coming from their sleep. Ever read Frankenstein by Mary Shelley? Talk about a nightmare. ;)