Dancing in the Streets

Oddly leaves out the largest phenomenon of celebration in N. America

I enjoyed this book but... New Orleans is and has been a city defined and moulded, more than anything else, by a culture of non spectator celebration for hundreds of years. Strange to go so in depth about sports and rock n roll without even mentioning the most vibrant and consistent group ecstasy the USA holds. Makes me suspect of the other information in the book. Has she never been to the many month celebrations of Mardi Gras? No mention of Mardi Gras Indians. No mention of the parade culture.

4 people found this helpful

Such an important, unique work

The beginning starts out a little slower, but WELL worth waiting it out as it moves forward chronologically....just clearly represents a serious, creative level of research and shines a light and what amounts to be a sad reality about the lack of meaningful, collective opportunities to just enjoy life with those around us (through food, drink, music, even dancing).

I hope it helps drive a real push for more of exactly those things, and i know myself that i want to do anything i can, even in small ways, to push all of that.

1 person found this helpful

Very Interesting

The author gives an amazing account of festivity and communal ecstasy throughout history. From paleolithic man, Dionysian rites, early Christian practices, all the way through the rock revolution and modern sports craze, the story of our desire to break down boundaries and live joyously and the authority which finds itself constantly threatened by unity of the little people. An argument is made that we are still missing something that may never be truly regained outside of music festivals and family religious groups which may still practice the age old traditions of ecstatic rites.

Eye Opening

Great book. Very informative about dance and music across cultures. I could see the effects it has had on my life and many of those around me. This book has inspired me to make changes that are fun and will last four generations to come.

Not for celebration

The tone of the audio was surprisingly condescending. I was expecting at least neutral. Content was accurate though.

Romp through civilization

A good read for those interested in anthropology, evolution and the forces such as hierarchies which have attempted to mute the irrepressible human instinct for collective joy.

Poor

Very shoddy historical work in this book. So many glaring logical fallacies and inaccuracies that I had to stop mid way...

Shades of lectures past

I tried to listen, but gave up. This reminded me of my worst courses in grad school, required ones given by professors who stood woodenly in front of the class and read their magnum opus to us in a monotone.
And, like the worst of them, it contained no revelations before I was mentally asleep.