Had an intense dream last night in the Jester's universe. I can think of only one other occasion where I've had a dream where I was in a world I'd created and written about.
I loved it. Danger, sex, intrigue …. The world came alive and I was a part of it. It was a dark place of shadows and muted, deep colors, but fantastic, full of wild gardens, lush, silky clothing, music and mysterious strangers. I felt like I belonged there. I was disappointed that it ended so soon. It was just a little piece. Some dreams feel like they last for hours. I can't say exactly how long this one felt, but I'd say it was under fifteen minutes.
I wasn't myself, though. I've heard of other people having dreams where they weren't themselves, but I'm not sure how common it is. Is it more prevalent among writers?
I think the earliest dream I can remember where I wasn't myself, I was James Bond. Not sure where that came from. I've enjoyed the films over the years, but I can't say that I'm a huge fan. More like a casual observer. Maybe something going on in my life needed that fantasy as an outlet. And dreams are vivid fantasies, about as real as you can get outside of actually doing something.
I recommend reality over fantasy and dreams in most circumstances (as long as no one is getting killed, maimed or traumatized in the process) but they are fun rides. Life without them would be like culture without art. It would still be interesting, but not as deep or beautifully adorned.