noun | /ˈrɛm ˌmaɪ.nɪŋ/
(REM as in “rem sleep,” Mining as in “mining for gold”)
Definition:
The intentional practice of entering the early stages of REM (Rapid Eye Movement) sleep or the hypnagogic state with the specific goal of extracting creative ideas, insights, or inspiration. The practitioner typically awakens shortly after entering this mental state to record thoughts or concepts before they fade from memory.
(REM as in “rem sleep,” Mining as in “mining for gold”)
Definition:
The intentional practice of entering the early stages of REM (Rapid Eye Movement) sleep or the hypnagogic state with the specific goal of extracting creative ideas, insights, or inspiration. The practitioner typically awakens shortly after entering this mental state to record thoughts or concepts before they fade from memory.
She credits REM Mining for the plot twist in her novel, having pulled it straight from the edge of sleep.
by C.M. James April 13, 2025
Get the REM Miningmug. REM Mining
noun | pronounced /rem ˈmaɪnɪŋ/
Definition of REM Mining
The intentional practice of accessing the REM (Rapid Eye Movement) stage of sleep or hypnagogic state to extract creative ideas, insights, or inspiration, especially for storytelling, writing, or artistic expression.
A creative technique developed by author C.M. James in which one consciously induces an early dreamlike state (without full sleep) to mentally "mine" or retrieve narrative elements, emotions, or visions for use in fiction or art.
noun | pronounced /rem ˈmaɪnɪŋ/
Definition of REM Mining
The intentional practice of accessing the REM (Rapid Eye Movement) stage of sleep or hypnagogic state to extract creative ideas, insights, or inspiration, especially for storytelling, writing, or artistic expression.
A creative technique developed by author C.M. James in which one consciously induces an early dreamlike state (without full sleep) to mentally "mine" or retrieve narrative elements, emotions, or visions for use in fiction or art.
Examples:
"I used REM Mining last night and came up with the next twist in my novel."
"C.M. James swears by REM Mining as the secret to building the Dreamfall universe."
"I used REM Mining last night and came up with the next twist in my novel."
"C.M. James swears by REM Mining as the secret to building the Dreamfall universe."
by C.M. James June 26, 2025
Get the REM Miningmug. A creative technique where someone intentionally enters the early REM or hypnagogic state to access heightened imagination, insight, and ideas. REM Mining involves using the mind’s dream-border zone on purpose to pull out concepts, scenes, or inspiration for writing, art, or problem solving.
by CM James November 13, 2025
Get the REM Miningmug.