Vodou, the science of universal knowledge, and a ritual practice that comes from West Africa, influences all aspects of life in Haitian society. Such influence is most marked in the realm of the arts, i.e. music, painting, literature, dancing, dress and lifestyle. The music, which consists of drumming, singing, and dancing, indeed a central pillar of the ritual setting, is essential for the success of a ceremony. Vodou encompasses many rites, or styles of worship, but it is usually subsumed under two major rites – the Rada, which is considered cool, and the Kongo-Petwo, seen as hot.
