The House Dream

I've had the House Dream for years. There are several basic configurations to the house, and they rotate. It's usually a very large house, and typically, English or European. Generally a Victorian pile, but occasionally Georgian. Sometimes it's divided into apartments or student housing. Sometimes it's falling apart. Occasionally it is being renovated. The basement is featureless, neglected and terrifying.

Once, I got to a lovely, sunny room in the attic.

I have read about the Jungian archetype--basement is the place of fears, attic is the place of aspirations, etc., etc.

Last night, it was a totally different house, in a totally different location. It was not as large. Two storeys, with an attic. It was more American Colonial than any other style. The rooms were occupied, and I was a long-term visitor. As in my usual House dreams, many of the rooms had an air of neglect. This house had, for instance, a second living room which was both tidy and shabby.

When I opened the door to the attic stairs, the stairs were rough-hewn lumber, and recently painted a light, buttery yellow high-gloss enamel. I did not go up, uncertain about whether I was allowed. In a later exploration, I found a second staircase to the attic. This one was modern, and metal, with a lower section that folded flat to prevent unauthorized access. Eventually, I went up, and discovered a secret room, furnished only with a few built-in shelves. It was wallpapered to coordinate with the light yellow on the stairs.

It was a nice dream, though a little mysterious.