To play dead // playing dead

The meaning and sense is clear - I would just like to find the origin - I know Björk has a song called "Play Dead" did she come up with it? or is it a much older saying? - Thanks for any help!

ps - Apart from "dog talking" when you say it to a dog - is there a link to literature or a quote?

Probably from an opossum, an animal that will freeze and play dead. It is very convincing. It goes completely stiff and lifeless.