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The Serpent and the Rainbow
304 pages, 1997
In April 1982, ethnobotanist Wade Davis arrived in Haiti to investigate two cases of zombification: people who had reappeared in Haitian society years after they had been buried and declared dead.
Drawn into a netherworld of rituals and celebrations, Davis penetrated vodoun culture deeply enough to place zombification in its proper context within vodoun culture.
In the course of his investigation, Davis came to realize that the story of vodoun is the history of Haiti—from its African origins, down to the present day, where vodoun culture is effectively the government of Haiti's countryside.
The Serpent and the Rainbow gives you a deep insight into the rich and complex Haitian culture. Wade Davis takes you on a journey to explore the fascinating world of voodoo, its rituals, and its significance in the lives of the Haitian people. It's a great opportunity to learn about a culture that's often misunderstood.
One of the key messages in the book is the power of belief. Davis shows how the belief in zombies and voodoo is so strong in Haiti that it can even affect people's physical states. It's a thought-provoking look into how our minds can influence our bodies.
The Serpent and the Rainbow is not just about culture and belief, it's also about science. Davis, an ethnobotanist, digs into the use of plants in Haitian voodoo to create potions that can induce a death-like state. It's a fascinating look into a field of study that many of us may not be familiar with.
Through his research in Haiti, Davis also touches on the impact of colonialism on the country. He shows how the history of slavery and oppression has shaped the culture and beliefs of the Haitian people. It's a sobering reminder of the long-lasting effects of colonialism.
Finally, The Serpent and the Rainbow encourages us to keep an open mind. Davis himself had to set aside his own preconceptions and biases to truly understand and appreciate the Haitian culture and voodoo practices. It's a lesson in empathy and understanding that we can all learn from.
