Greetings, Royal Subjects!
Whether perched on ladder or standing curbside, the denizens of
this fair city, joined by thousands of faithful travelers to our
dreamy landscape, cheered as the majestic krewes brought forth their
artistic processions once more to our streets and avenues. I, too,
joined the admiring throngs, but while you reached for blinky bead or
stuffed gargoyle, I took careful note of each parade's adherence to
our noble Carnival traditions. Krewes earned points for theme
originality, float and costume design, overall parade organization,
quality and uniqueness of throws, and number and spiritedness of the
marching bands. I steered my chariot past car and bike, from Uptown to
downtown, from West Bank to Metairie. Herewith, as in so many years
past, I present my royal rankings.
I offer a special nod to those who braved the unpredictable
elements. Hail Orpheus, Cleopatra, Aladdin, Oshun, Sparta and all
others who rolled -- and reigned -- in the rain! To the fair riders of
Pygmalion and Zeus, forced to roll on "rain dates," I offer
you my thanks for keeping spirits high. Alas, poor Proteus, the lone
krewe forced to cancel -- we shall never know the splendors you had
prepared for our enjoyment. We await your gallant return next year!
And now, loyal readers, before we march farther into the austerity
of the holy Lenten season, let us look back one final time at the
magic, mirth and magnificence of Mardi Gras 2004.
Adieu!
