Kevin Rabalais documents rural Louisiana carnival traditions

Kevin Rabalais published a book titled Primero el cuerpo: apuntes de una ensoñación de Carnaval to document the rural Mardi Gras traditions of Louisiana.

The book includes a Spanish translation by Damián Tullio, the original English text, and a collection of black and white photographs showing masks, dances, and horses. Rabalais uses his personal memories and knowledge to describe the rural carnival as an alternative realm that exists outside of everyday life.

He describes the event as an opera of chaos that rejects authority and rules to preserve the culture of the local land. The author argues that these traditions survive despite the pressure of the United States to erase cultural differences. The book details specific ceremonies, such as the initiation of children who must face participants traveling on foot and on horseback. It also describes the tradition of young people wearing their first costume to join the Courir, a significant race.

Rabalais notes that the event serves as an act of love and respect for ancestors and immigrants who maintained their customs despite facing racism and rejection.