Introduction--The Committee of Sleep
“It is a common experience that a problem difficult at night is resolved in the morning after the committee of sleep has worked on it” --John Steinbeck
Since ancient times, dreams have inspired individuals in the arts, sciences, and beyond to create, innovate, and develop new ideas. Although the link between dreams and creativity is still unclear, current research suggests that dreams are useful in making connections and developing unique images and metaphors—techniques that are especially valuable for creative writers. As a result, artists from all media can exploit the creative benefits of dreams. Creative writers can tap into their unconscious and become inspired by “sleeping on it.” 
A caveat: Whether the dream content seems insightful or useless, a writer has to do the work of translating the dream language into written language. Much of the work of writing involves a process of revising, polishing, and cultivating an effective style—something that dreams unfortunately cannot do. Nevertheless, without an idea as a starting point, the writer does not have material to work with. This can result in the dreaded situation of “writer’s block.” Fortunately, by “sleeping on it,” writers can solve their creative problems and get unblocked
Read more:
Introduction--The Committee of Sleep
The Little People
Dream Incubation
REM--Making the Connection
REM--The Royal Road to Metaphor
Hypnagogic Dreams
Writer's Block
Suggested Reading
Links
About the Author