16–22 April 1838

Last night ill dreams. Dreams are true to nature and, like monstrous formations (e. g. the horse-hoof divided into toes), show the law. Their double consciousness, their sub- and objectiveness is the wonder. I call the phantoms that rise the creation of my fancy, but they act like volunteers, and counteract my inclination. They make me feel that every act, every thought, every cause, is bipolar, and in the act is contained the counter act. If I strike, I am struck. If I chase, I am pursued. If I push, I am resisted.