This reminds me of the "dark forest" theory in Liu Cixin's novel of the same name, which is a metaphor for the terrifying unknown. This theory talks about why advanced civilizations in the universe might deliberately remain silent--avoiding making their presence known to other civilizations, and how every civilization is a "hunter" striving to expand its territory and power. But because they can’t pinpoint the intentions of others, they conceal their locations to avoid being “hunted” or destroyed. As a comparatively less advanced civilization, humanity might actually be endangering itself by broadcasting signals into space, so “foolishly” declaring its existence and making itself "prey" in the cosmic hunting ground.
I can see the parallels to some extent, as the subconscious weaves its threads below the surface, below awareness, much like the silent civilizations lurking in the dark forest.
Thank you so much for reading, dear Robert. I too do feel as though the distance between the realm of dreams and the waking world has shortened. For me, though it’s not so much a matter of age but something that often happens during the winter months.