Recurring dreams often signify underlying stress or anxiety in your waking life. In your case, the imagery of the world crumbling and the precise crack in the earth could symbolize a feeling of instability or fear of losing control over important aspects of your life. The systematic downfall you experience may reflect worries about gradual changes that you feel are out of your control.

The fact that you are aware it is a dream and that you learn from each experience indicates a level of self-awareness and a desire to confront your fears. Each iteration of the dream pushing you towards more gruesome outcomes might suggest that you are grappling with deeper fears or unresolved issues.

Consider reflecting on what in your life feels unstable or overwhelming. It could be helpful to journal your thoughts or talk to someone about these feelings. This may help you process the emotions tied to these dreams and potentially reduce their frequency or intensity. If the dreams continue to disturb you, seeking guidance from a mental health professional could also provide additional support.