Quick, Before the Music Stops: A Review
Copyright © 2009 Karin Norgard
There are too many books out there about how ballroom dancing changed an author’s perspective on life. While I can appreciate each writer’s experience and their desire to share with others, each of these books seems to read the same, with nothing of true depth and substance to really engage me. I typically finish these books out of obligation rather than interest. Despite this, I continue to read every new book on social or ballroom dance that I can find because I hold out hope that someone will offer something unique and remarkable.
Janet Carlson, with her book, Quick, Before the Music Stops: How Ballroom Dancing Saved My Life, has validated that hope. Her story begins with the realization of an inner death, the result of a lifeless marriage and an endless cycle of quiet and obligation. What captured me immediately was her beautifully descriptive writing and unique voice. At first I felt Carlson was sharing a little too much detail about the inadequacy of her husband. I felt sorry that his dirty laundry was – both literally and figuratively – being left out for all to see.
However, I quickly found myself engrossed in Carlson’s journey back into the world of ballroom dancing and how it changed her physical, mental, and emotional landscape. Most books that attempt self help or metaphorical parallels between dancing and life are too saccharine and simplistic. Carlson, however, touches on complex and rich life lessons without preaching or giving simplistic answers. Her strength in this book lies in her ability to put the truth out there in all its complexity, to admit undesired emotions or those we don’t like to admit or talk about. This honesty and depth kept me hooked throughout the book.
Carlson explores common themes in ballroom dance: connection, musicality, leading and following, technique, control, quality of movement, artistry, and flow. However, she manages to breathe new life into these topics without the common clichés and analogies. She does this by delving into her painful struggle to find meaning in her relationships and in her life. Although in the beginning I found such honesty difficult to read, I quickly discovered it to be the very reason she is able to offer such a unique and engrossing perspective on dance and life.
The combination of engaging writing and depth of content made Carlson’s story come alive for me. I was amazed to find myself finishing the book in less than two days. Her reflections provide validation and inspiration for my own experiences and thoughts in learning and teaching social dance. Carlson’s journey is universal even as it references the world of dance and will appeal to beginning learners, advanced dancers, and non-dancers alike.
(0) Comments Filed under
Like this article? Please share!
