Various Aspects of Carnival
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This day is the most attractive of the festival. It corresponds to the day when the Carnival of Martinique comes to an end. A mock funeral announcement passes on the radio, which announces the burial of Vaval on behalf of all the outrageous characters in Martinique folklore. In every household the bottoms of trunks, drawers and cupboards are emptied and plundered for their black and white tinsel, each one tested and measured carefully in the mirror. |
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The diablesses, or she-devils, act in a particularly authentic manner. At eleven o'clock, a mass of white she-devils gushes forth from the surrounding hills in song, dance and movement. They trail along an infernal collection of old chamber pots, emptied cans and broken buckets. The she-devils are of all ages, backgrounds and social classes. Initially, people gather in groups of acquaintances, but these are soon dissolved in all the running and hustling, under the flags and the shower of old shoes launched into the air. The most eccentric orchestras are formed, people playing old trombones, bamboo percussion, hunting horns, flutes… anything that makes noise is welcome in these hilarious bands.
Vaval, on his majestic float, gently sways as the float bumps along. The evening falls, the she-devils sing, howl and then groan. They follow Vaval to his final resting place where everybody waits expectantly to see him burst into flames. The flames devour the wood, people sob and then a cry bursts out: "Until next time, Vaval, until next time!"
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Come and discover this beautiful island of your dreams.
There is no doubt that you will find total happiness!
Imagine yourself dressed in thousands of colours, moving to the rhythms.
How can you resist ?
Martinique is waiting for you!
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