The 'rat culture' in Recife has gained attention during Carnival as a humorous urban aesthetic emerging from the outskirts, featuring elements like a bar in a sewage canal.
In Recife, Brazil, a new urban aesthetic known as 'rat culture' has begun trending on social media during Carnival. This movement, which takes inspiration from the vibrant local history and humor, draws a significant parallel to the 'Manguebeat' movement of the early 1990s. Where the Manguebeat brought elements of the muddy mangroves to the forefront of cultural discourse, the 'rat culture' playfully uses the image of a rat as a symbol of humor and resilience in peripheral communities.
The aesthetic of 'rat culture' is characterized by unique hairstyles, clothing choices, and even a Carnival block named 'Ratas Peso'. An unusual highlight of this movement is a bar set up within a sewage canal, complete with chairs and drinks, where participants can party amidst the water. This playful and satirical setup has sparked discussions online, leading to viral posts and threads highlighting this eccentric celebration, all while pushing boundaries of traditional Carnival aesthetics.
Thiago Soares, a professor and researcher at the Federal University of Pernambuco, emphasizes the connection between digital dynamics and cultural expressions in these peripheral areas. He notes that 'rat culture' is infused with humor and is an essential narrative that reflects the vibrant, albeit challenging, experiences of marginalized communities. This movement illustrates how local cultures can reclaim their narratives and engage with broader socio-political themes through humor and creativity, making it a significant phenomenon during this year's Carnival.
