I read this densely packed book and was amazed by how much the author has accomplished. In Dancing in the Streets, Ehrenreich traces the roots of communal celebrations back to human biology and culture, showing how mass festivities were once part of Western traditions, from ancient Greece to medieval Christianity. Over time, authorities suppressed public dancing, fearing it would disrupt social hierarchies. Yet, as Ehrenreich shows, these gatherings persist, from rock-and-roll rebellions to the “carnivalization” of sports.
The book argues that we are inherently social beings, driven to share joy, and that public dancing reflects a healthy, vibrant society. Although many cultures have tried to suppress it, dance continues to emerge in new forms. However, I disagree with the idea that the absence of public dance directly causes depression. I did, however, find a fitting translation for отчаянная пляска—frenzied.
Her talk on Positive Thinking was also quite thought-provoking.
