Publisher's Synopsis
In the spring of 2013 the cicadas will return on their 17 year cycle - the longest gestation period of any animal. Their deafening sound upon their arrival is familiar to most Americans. They are one unique example of how the rhythm of insects taught humans the meaning of rhythm, from the whirr of a cricket's wings to this long, unfathomable, exact 17 year beat. In looking at cicadas, as well as other humming, clicking, and thrumming insects, this book considers the radical notion that we humans got out idea of rhythm, synchronization, and dance from insect sounds.
