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The classification I have suggested for analytic interpretations can be applied to all statements whether made by patient or analyst. But I wish to introduce another mode of classification for the same material and for this I propose to draw on experience with patients suffering from disturbances of thought. In contrast with the scheme I have drawn up in the last chapter this will be framed genetically not systematically. Whether there is a realization approximating to it is a question I leave open for the present.
1 β-elements. This term represents the earliest matrix from which thoughts can be supposed to arise. It partakes of the quality of inanimate object and psychic object without any form of distinction between the two. Thoughts are things, things are thoughts; and they have personality.
2 α-elements. This term represents the outcome of work done by α-function on sense impressions. They are not objects in the world of external reality but are products of work done on the sensa believed to relate to such realities. They make possible the formation and use of dream thoughts.
I do not consider that there is or can be any evidence for the existence of a realization corresponding to β-elements, α-function, or α-elements, other than observed facts that cannot be explained without the aid of such hypothetical elements. For the remaining formulations the position is different. It can be supposed that there is evidence for the existence of dream thoughts, preconceptions and the rest. To continue:
3 Dream thoughts. These depend on the prior existence of β-and α-elements: otherwise they require no elaboration beyond that which they have received in classical psychoanalytic theory. They
are communicated by the manifest content of the dream but remain latent unless the manifest content is translated into more sophisticated terms.
With dreams one reaches a realm in which there is direct evidence of the phenomena with which one has to deal. At least there is direct evidence wh