I spent my first night at N.C. Outward Bound in the top bunk of a screened-in bunkhouse with a dozen of my new best friends. But it wasn’t the situation or their snoring that kept me awake. It was the loud, rhythmic, and constant sound of thousands of cicadas. The start of my adventure there coincided with the 17-year cicada emergence. I don’t remember being engulfed by their sound subsequent nights, but that first night was unforgettable.
Here’s the cicada short story. Imagine after your birth spending only a few brief moments above ground before settling into the earth for your next 17 years. Then, imagine emerging after 17 years, finding love, having a huge family, only to pass away shortly afterward. That is the life of a cicada. As you ponder this, there are billions of them emerging now in Virginia, West Virginia, and North Carolina. As you listen to their deafening sound, remember it’s only the males that cause that cacophony. And also remember, that you, along with birds, raccoons, and other critters, can eat them. (They’re low-carb and gluten-free, delicious roasted.)
Here’s how this all ties into our writing practice. In today’s world, it can be challenging to find a quiet place to write without distractions. And on the flip side, absolute quiet can also be distracting. Try writing in different areas - there may be times the energy of street noise is what’s needed to spark your creative spirit. Other times the sounds of rain, ocean waves, a stream, or wind in the trees are what’s needed. If you’re lucky enough to be in one of the states I mentioned, go outside and open yourself to the sound of these amazing insects, really let yourself feel the vibration and cadence. See where the cicadas take you on your creative journey. Let me know; it’s definitely an event to celebrate. Every 17 years :-).
Photo credit: Baltimore Sun
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