A Dream That Interprets Itself

Sigmund Freud hired Otto Rank as his secretary and funded Ranks PhD in literature at the University of Vienna. In 1910, Rank published 'A Dream That Interprets Itself,' and Freud invited him to contribute two chapters to 'The Interpretation of Dreams.' Rank published a stream of articles and books advancing psychoanalytic thinking into almost every area of the arts and humanities, demonstrating the validity of psychoanalysis. This is the first English translation of Ranks masterpiece of dream interpretation, accompanied by an in-depth introduction from editor Robert Kramer.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 120 pages
Publication date: 31 October 2023
Publisher: Karnac Books

Sigmund Freud, renowned for his groundbreaking contributions to psychoanalysis, took a significant step in advancing his theories by appointing Otto Rank as his secretary and providing financial support for Rank's pursuit of a PhD in literature at the University of Vienna. At the young age of 26, Rank unveiled his remarkable work, "A Dream That Interprets Itself," which left a profound impact on Freud. Impressed by Rank's intellectual prowess, Freud invited him to contribute two chapters on poetry and myth to his seminal text, "The Interpretation of Dreams," in 1914. This marked the beginning of a fruitful collaboration between the two men, with Rank's name gracing the title page of Freud's influential work for the next fifteen years.

In recognition of Freud's immense generosity, Rank embarked on a prolific publishing journey, disseminating psychoanalytic insights into various fields of the arts and humanities. His writings not only showcased the validity of psychoanalysis beyond Freud's autobiographical masterpiece but also challenged the critics who doubted its efficacy. Rank's contributions, although initially met with some skepticism, gained renewed interest in the 1970s, leading to a resurgence of his work.

"A Dream That Interprets Itself," originally published in 1910 in the journal "Jahrbuch für Psychoanalytische und Psychopathologische Forschungen," 2(2): 465–540, is now presented in its first English translation. Accompanied by an insightful introduction by editor Robert Kramer, the world's sole Rankian psychologist, this book offers a profound exploration of dream interpretation. It serves as a vital resource for psychoanalytic scholars, practitioners, historians, and anyone intrigued by the enigmatic realm of dreams.

Rank's legacy continues to resonate, as his profound insights into the unconscious mind have shaped the field of psychology and psychotherapy. His work paved the way for future generations of researchers and practitioners to delve deeper into the complexities of human behavior and psyche. Through his dedication to psychoanalysis and his unwavering commitment to intellectual exploration, Otto Rank left an indelible mark on the history of psychology, earning him a rightful place among the pioneers of this discipline.

Weight: 240g
Dimension: 152 x 228 x 10 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781800132054