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ABSTRACT
This study looks at the style and meaning of moonlight songs. The objective of this study is to ascertain the importance of Igbo moonlight songs, to examine the effect of these songs on children who sing them and also to analyse the stylistic features present in Igbo moonlight songs.
The study employs a qualitative research design. Data for this study was collected through library and field work. In the library work, journal articles, dissertations and thesis were consulted in order to establish a working theoretical framework. Data from the fieldwork was collected through oral interview, observation and participation. This study is premised on literary stylistics theory that examines the creativity in the use of language, it is the practice of analyzing the language of literature using linguistics concepts. Data collected were transcribed and translated from Igbo to English. The notes taken during interview, observation and participation were examined to identify the stylistic features and meaning in the songs and then analyzed descriptively. The findings of the study reveal that the ancient beliefs and culture of the Igbos are embedded in these songs thereby making these songs a vital part of their lives. Through language, feelings, thoughts and emotions are communicated. The study also shows that these songs act as a tool of maintenance of culture and entertainment and there is a beautiful blend between the message and style of its presentation. It also tells us how moonlight songs serve as an effective instructional medium for the pupils and how the lyrics of the songs enhance the teaching of the culture of the society in which they exist and how the young ones could be educated with the use of these songs.
Key words; folksong, moonlight, stylistics and ethnography.
