Describe symbolism in The Mysteries of Pittsburgh by Michael Chabon

The noise from the cicadas is symbolic of the refuge Art finds with Phlox, while avoiding to clear his thoughts and consider his life. Rather than look at his life from a clear perspective, Art chooses to escape with Phlox and his friends into the lull of their lives, rather than finding one of his own. His friends create the white noise in his life that temporarily drowns out his need to deal with personal issues.