World Rhythm
I
just recently once again have been involved in a discussion about the world's
systems of weights and measures. Here in the United States, we still use inches,
pounds and gallons. Most of the world uses the metric system of meters, grams
and liters. We were trying to understand the logic behind each system by
factoring in how it works best in everyday practicality. Mathematically, the
metric system makes all the sense in the world; a system of counting based on
10. It's sensible and uncomplicated. Realistically, however, it has its
drawbacks. Due to basic balance, we carry and package things in 6's; hence the
dozen eggs and six-pack of beer. (Not to take away from the beauty of the
2-liter Coke.) I think we all may be mistaken. The natural rhythmic pulse of the
world is based on 4. Seasonally and musically, Stravinsky excluded, we all
follow the same pattern:
1 2 3 4
1 2 3 4