For Crying Out Loud

This summer, the Cicada's summer serenade has penetrated my awareness. They're probably annual cicadas*—not the 13 or 17 year variety—but they're certainly doing a good impersonation, if decibel level is an indication. When something seems to be increasing, I often wonder if the numbers are really on the rise, or just my awareness.

I don't remember the annual cicadas so overpowering their summer companions before—the katydids, crickets and other UCIs (unidentified chirping insects). I've seen more abandoned exoskeletons gripping the screen on my porch as well.

This summer, the prolonged heat has prompted a first for me—running the AC at night. Feeling guilty for this energy extravagance hasn't stopped me from cracking the window a bit so that I can hear the Cidadas' song.

How does this relate to necklaces? Scarab beetles (another visually interesting insect) have been depicted in jewelry, why not Cicadas? I've added this to my list of get-around-to-it-someday projects. A needlewoven Cicada (necklace or pin). Not sure how I'll do the wings, but the eyes are bugging begging to be represented by beads.

I'm often torn between accuracy, at the field guide level, and allowing artistic ideas to dominate. When (if) I make a necklace or pin representing a Cicada, I hope it will be recognizable, yet quirky. I'm not sure if this reveals my Gemininess or my indecisiveness.

*We used to call them locusts.