Bridge

Bridges are among the most literal dream symbols — a crossing between two states of being. Jungian analysis treats a bridge as the transcendent function itself, the psyche’s capacity to move between opposites. Japanese folklore is rich in bridge symbolism: the Yatsuhashi zigzag bridge, designed so evil spirits (said to travel in straight lines) cannot follow. The condition of the dream-bridge matters: sturdy stone promises a decision you can make with confidence; a rope bridge over a chasm suggests risk and faith required; a broken bridge that the old route is no longer available. Notice where you are on the bridge when the dream fixes you — beginning, middle, or nearly across.