The form and function of imagery in selected Ngakarimojong folksongs

Abstract

This study examines the form and function of imagery in selected Ngakarimojong folksongs. It intends to identify and explain the different types of imagery and their function in the folksongs therefore revealing the meanings and themes embedded in the songs. The research also contains an introduction to these songs and their origin, the literature review which provides information on what other scholars have studied about imagery. The researcher utilized interview, observation, data analysis methods, note taking and recording. The researcher also listened and watched the folksongs when they were being performed in order to identify the images contained in the performance that enriched the research. The study furthermore attempts to fill the gap created by inadequate discussion of imagery in the Ngakarimojong folksongs. The study examines how various kinds of images and other figures of speech like personification, hyperbole, repetition and symbolism act as images and reveal the themes in the folksongs. In addition, the study treats imagery as a stylistic device that has the ability to appeal to the sensory experiences of human beings through vivid description therefore lessons are learnt in these folksongs. The also study focuses on the five and two other kinds of imagery that appeal to the individual’s senses, such as: visual, tactile, olfactory, gustatory, auditory, kinesthetic and organic imagery. These types of images are not viewed as distinct entities but rather as an integral part of imagery. Therefore, this study established and concluded that imagery is a vital device that portrays the meaning and themes of various folksongs such as: marriage, courtship, nomadic pastoralism and family life which are crucial elements in society.