Carnaval Carnage

February 11, 2013

The Florianopolis Samba School was closed due to lack of funds this year. Everyone is talking about the fact that it is yet another shameless pocket-padding option for the governing bodies. So many of the free street events for Carnaval have been shut down and the hotel and indoor proceedings are very spendy. There are several block parties set up around the neighborhoods who have the fortitude and commitment to organize them. The typically spit from one end to the other in size Blocs rock with music, sizzle with food, flood with drink and undulate savagely with dance. Bright banners charge across the threshold and the crowds that spill in and out onto the street are branded with vibrant and outrageous colors. The official Carnaval dates run 2/2-2/12 so this is the tail end of the charged carnage excitement. Outrageous costumes and hats, make-up (both sexes) and heels tall enough to fall to one’s death.

The following day black trash bags line the roads from the collection of packaging and mysterious bulges inside. Beaches lined with paper white to nearly black bodies soaking in what is left of the Carnaval sun and fun before having to return to their employment and the little ones to the education system. Service workers arrive later than usual regurgitating stories of late night parties and celebrations. It is a bank holiday yet the majority of the shops are in operation to take full advantage of the tourism industry followers.

Massage madness today at our steamy house. Not quite large enough to fully support my tall frame diningroom table cleared and blankets, sheets, special triangular pillows and oils, fans blowing serene air, incense and relaxing music drifting throughout the wood and tile space to create an atmosphere of tranquility and rising above problems and concerns. What a treat!