Deeper into Sleep: A Discussion on Melatonin, Mushrooms, and the Myth of the Sandman

Dear Professor Matthew Walker,

I hope this message finds you well. My name is Martijn Benders, and I am the author of the book “Amanita Muscaria – the Book of the Empress”. It is an exploration of the intersection between mycology, folklore, and sleep science, inspired in part by your influential work in sleep research.

The Greek philosopher Heraclitus once said, “Even a soul submerged in sleep is hard at work and helps make something of the world.” This highlights the necessity of sleep for our cognitive processes and overall wellbeing.

One of the key themes I delve into in my book is the concept of sleep deprivation and its causes, particularly focusing on the role of melatonin in the body. As you are acutely aware, melatonin plays a significant role in regulating our sleep-wake cycles. However, I have encountered studies and viewpoints suggesting that an overuse or over-reliance on melatonin can paradoxically lead to sleep deprivation, creating a self-defeating cycle. Is this a perspective that you have encountered in your extensive research on sleep, and if so, what are your thoughts?

As I explore this theme, I have found inspiration in various literary works that delve into the concept of sleep. For instance, “Macbeth” by Shakespeare, where he writes “Sleep that knits up the ravell’d sleave of care, The death of each day’s life, sore labour’s bath, Balm of hurt minds, great nature’s second course, Chief nourisher in life’s feast.” It underscores the restorative power of sleep, something that can be disrupted with poor melatonin regulation.

In my book, I also explore the fairytale of the Sandman. In the original story, the Sandman carries two umbrellas, which I interpret as symbolizing two mushrooms, and squirts milk into children’s eyes to bring about sleep, not sand. The transition from milk to sand in later versions of the story seems a strange twist, as it is hard to imagine falling asleep with sand in one’s eyes. Do you, as a sleep expert, have any insights into this metamorphosis? Could it be a cultural shift or an alteration to better fit the narrative that sleep can sometimes be uncomfortable or elusive?

I greatly admire your work and would be immensely appreciative of your perspective on these matters. Your insights could provide valuable context and depth to these explorations.

Thank you in advance for your time and consideration. I eagerly look forward to any insights you might share.

Best Regards,

Martijn Benders

Martijn Benders has published twenty-six books, eighteen of which are in Dutch. He has been named one of the greatest talents of his time by critics like Komrij and Gerbrandy. He has also written three philosophical works, one of which is in English about the Amanita Muscaria, the Fly Agaric. Publishing on the international stage of The Philosophical Salon, he has also gained international recognition as one of the most remarkable thinkers from the Netherlands.