Figures of speech in imbalu circumcision songs

Abstract

Abstract This project is set to present and examine the figures of speech in circumcision songs. It is aimed at establishing the analysis and effectiveness in adorning the message to the initiates and to the community. The study was informed by the fact that previous studies such as those by KIPURY (1983), NANG'ALI(2000), were mainly concerned about collection of songs and their importance in communities. The present study specifically examines the language in the songs and identifies the figures of speech in the songs; such kind of study has not been conducted at this level. This study is aimed at achieving two major objectives which are: to examine the language in the songs and identify the figures of speech in songs and to examine each case of figurative language in order to establish their effectiveness in adorning the message. In research methodologies, collection of circumcision songs and relevant information consisting of participation, observation, digital recordings and oral interviews. My analysis of individual songs has been guided by an analytical framework comprising a set of pertinent questions. The same of the key concerns in these questions include the importance of figures of speech in circumcision songs, as well as the way major issues are portrayed in these circumcision songs. This study has also established in importance of the figures of speech in circumcision songs of which include preservation of the message hidden in them for future use for initiates for example about marriage, sex and traditions of the Bagisu . Sometimes the figures of speech also help to hide information which is not meant to be known by the young people so as to promote morality in communities for example information about sex and marriage. Finally this study has also established that the circumcision songs employ a wide range of figurative language for example irony ,metaphors, similes and symbolism among the many of which such language devices store hidden meanings which are very relevant in communities among the Bagisu people.