Dream Interpretation: Abandoned

by R.R.

Reader Post: 'Last night I had a dream that I was partying with my family and friends on a big cruise ship. There was loud music, dancing, and a happy mood. Then I started noticing that everyone seemed to be disappearing. At first I wondered why they went back to their cabins when it was still early and everyone was having a good time, but the ship changed character. It became darker and quieter - and then it seemed like I was on an abandoned ghost ship.

I ran from deck to deck, shouting out to my loved ones, trying to find someone there, but everyone had disappeared. I was completely alone and totally scared. All the lights on the ship had gone out by that time. There was a moon peeking out from the clouds and the water around me was a silvery-blue. I couldn't believe everyone had left me on the ship alone. I had a strong feeling that something bad was going to happen.

Even after I woke up, I still felt abandoned and alone. I was all but crying. It really wasn't a pleasant dream.

To answer the dream interpretation questions, this is what I've come up with:

1. What is the primary action of the dream?

At first I was dancing and partying with people I know, then I started searching for them and couldn't find them.

2. What am I feeling in the dream?

I felt happy at first, then I felt alone and abandoned, and lastly I felt scared to be alone on the ship.

3. Am I active or passive in the dream?

I was active and the main character in my dream.

4. Am I afraid of anything?

Yes, reflecting on the dream I realise that I am experiencing insecurity in my primary relationships and I am afraid of being alone.

5. What is the drama of my dream?

The drama of the dream is that I am abandoned by my loved ones and end up totally alone - and how afraid I am of being old, abandoned and lonely.

6. What could have triggered the dream?

Our family had lots of conflict over the festive season and as always, I feel as if I am in the middle of the in-fighting. Christmas lunch in particular started off as a happy event and then turned ugly when my father and brother disagreed about politics. I was drawn into the discussion - and in the end everyone was angry with everyone. My father said some hurtful things to me that made me feel upset. I also didn't feel like I received any support from anyone in the family.'



See Dream Dictionary: Abandoned.