I see where you're coming from. When I was first learning how to do it, I would go from being in trippy, vivid non lucid dreams. Then I'd become aware of the dr

I see where you're coming from. When I was first learning how to do it, I would go from being in trippy, vivid non lucid dreams. Then I'd become aware of the dream. Then all of the craziness would immediately drop off and I'd just be standing in a room or something. What I came to learn is that expectations drive the dream. When not conscious of the dream, it's almost like those Google deep dream images. If our mind thinks something strange could happen, well then that's very likely to happen, and this reiterates and can converge on strange and fantastic mindscapes. When we're aware of the dream, then our expectations become much more dry and realistic. Also, I think there is a difference between being lucid and being lucid and in control. Simply being lucid in a boring dream would not be so great. However, being in control is wonderful. You get to explore and experiment with what is possible. One thing I'd enjoy doing is talking to someone to see what they'd say (not knowing what they would say while being aware that it was my brain coming up with what they were saying). Those were some of my most memorable dreams. Also, I've definitely have had dreams where I've maintained the richness and trippiness after become aware.