"The playful seriousness of the style of this short work leaves the reader in doubt about the following: Did Mr. Kant intend to ridicule metaphysics or make spirituality credible?" (M. Mendelson)
The above reference by Mendelson summarizes the interpretive approach that Kantian bibliography has taken towards "Dreams of a Light-Shadow Explained through the Dreams of Metaphysics" (1766). Is it perhaps an anti-metaphysical treatise that mocks not only metaphysics (as Mendelson argues), but also the author himself (as Cassirer will argue in the 20th century)? Or is it a serious engagement by Kant with the world of spirits, an engagement that not only testifies to his sincere interest in mysticism, but also allows us to detect a possible influence on his work?
In a relentless satire, not only of mysticism (in the person of Swedenborg), but mainly of metaphysics, "Dreams of a Light-Shadow Explained through the Dreams of Metaphysics" presents us with a Kant beyond the established image, the image of the philosopher of the Enlightenment, who uses a sharp and technical language to solidly establish critical philosophy. On the contrary, in "Dreams," language disguises itself, sometimes light-hearted and sometimes serious, forcing us to interpret the author's intentions rather than focusing on possible arguments. The interpretation of Kant's intentions will ultimately determine the meaning of the text.