Dreams

"Dreams" by Olive Schreiner is a collection of prose poems and philosophical reflections written in the late 19th century. The work explores themes of life, love, joy, and the complexities of human existence through a series of allegorical pieces that blend dream-like imagery with deep existential insight. The opening portions introduce poignant figures representing concepts such as Life, Love, and Joy, establishing a metaphysical atmosphere that invites readers to traverse their own dreams and reflections alongside the narrative. At the start of "Dreams," the reader is greeted by an evocative metaphorical tale about Life and Love waiting at the shore, accompanied by a mysterious child named Joy, who undergoes a development that speaks to the changing nature of happiness. As Joy transforms, the narrative elegantly captures the bittersweet evolution of human emotions and relationships, ultimately culminating in a blend of lost innocence and the enduring strength of Sympathy. This introduction sets the tone for further explorations into the depths of existence, as Schreiner delves into not just the dreams of individuals, but also the collective yearning for understanding and truth throughout her eloquent prose. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Olive Schreiner was a South African author, anti-war campaigner and intellectual. She is best remembered today for her novel The Story of an African Farm (1883), which has been highly acclaimed. It deals boldly with such contemporary issues as agnosticism, existential independence, individualism, the professional aspirations of women, and the elemental nature of life on the colonial frontier.