Riddling dynamics: a case study of some riddles in Lusoga Language.

Abstract

Considering a number of studies, little research has been done in the area of the language in riddles. The research done has mainly dealt with the phonological stylistic devices and their effectiveness in the riddling of riddles in Lusoga language. Riddles specifically, have not had as much attention as other popular oral forms as proverbs and sayings, myths and legends, folktales, folksongs, recitations and others. This may probably be due to the people's perception of riddles as child entertainment oral form or game with not much significance attached to it other than simply entertainment. The research therefore brings out the use of phonologically stylistic devices in the riddling processes in Lusoga language. The study deals with specific phonological stylistic devices and their significances in the riddles by illustrating some phonological stylistic devices and their importance in riddles. As an art form, riddles are uplifted from just being a child's game to having a well thought out artistically beautifying linguistic makeup, which is very mature and of great importance. The study specifically touches on phonologically stylistic devices like repetition, onomatopoeically, assonance, consonance, alliteration and, rhythm to show the phonological nature of Lusoga riddles. The study is then concluded by reinforcing the fact that indeed Lusoga riddles are importantly phonological in nature and that this importance is mainly in the fact that these phonologically stylistic devices survive on the Lusoga social , cultural, occupational, economical and political background.