Meaning: This quote by Gérard de Nerval, a French poet, essayist, and translator, delves into the concept of dreams as a mysterious and separate realm from waking life. Nerval was a prominent figure in the French Romantic movement of the 19th century, known for his lyrical and imaginative writings that often explored themes of the subconscious and the surreal. In this quote, he presents dreams as a "second life" and alludes to the enigmatic barrier that separates the waking world from the realm of the unconscious.

Nerval's assertion that "our dreams are a second life" suggests that he viewed the experiences within dreams as a distinct and meaningful existence parallel to our waking reality. This notion aligns with the long-standing fascination with dreams as a domain where the mind is free to roam unrestrained by the boundaries of the physical world. Throughout history, various cultures and belief systems have ascribed significance to dreams, interpreting them as messages from the divine, manifestations of inner desires, or gateways to alternate dimensions of existence.

The imagery of "ivory or horned gates" that Nerval evokes in the quote underscores the idea of a formidable boundary separating the conscious and unconscious realms. The use of "ivory" and "horned" as descriptors not only conjures a sense of opulence and mystique but also suggests the formidable and forbidding nature of this divide. Nerval's choice of words underscores the sense of trepidation and awe that often accompanies contemplation of the unknown and the supernatural.

Nerval's personal experiences and struggles with mental health likely influenced his contemplation of dreams and the subconscious. Throughout his life, he grappled with periods of mental instability, which manifested in his writings through themes of hallucination, delusion, and a preoccupation with the mysterious workings of the mind. His introspective and often melancholic musings on the nature of reality and existence imbue his writings with a haunting and introspective quality that continues to captivate readers and scholars.

The quote also reflects Nerval's broader engagement with the Romantic fascination with the supernatural and the ineffable. The Romantics placed great emphasis on the power of imagination and the exploration of the inner self, seeking to transcend the confines of rationalism and empiricism. Nerval's quote exemplifies this inclination, as he contemplates the enigmatic nature of dreams and the inherent human desire to access the hidden truths and mysteries that lie beyond the tangible world.

In conclusion, Gérard de Nerval's quote encapsulates his contemplation of dreams as a separate and significant realm, distinct from waking life. His evocative language and exploration of the enigmatic divide between the conscious and unconscious realms offer a glimpse into his preoccupation with the mysteries of the human mind and the allure of the supernatural. This quote serves as a testament to Nerval's enduring legacy as a literary figure who delved into the depths of the human psyche and sought to unravel the enigmatic nature of existence.