A STYLISTIC ANALYSIS OF UTESI FOLKSONGS

ABSTRACT

This study looks at the style and functions of Utesi folksongs. The objectives of the study are to analyse the stylistic features and functions of Utesi folksongs as well as the significance of the songs to the lives of the Utesi people. The study employs a qualitative research design. Data for this study was collected through library and field works. In the library work, journal articles, dissertations and theses were consulted in order to establish a working theoretical framework. Data from the fieldwork was collected through oral interview, observation and participation in which the researchers participated in some Utesi folksong performances in various parts of Utesi community. This study is premised on the ethnopoetics theory which examines oral art in reference to the society that creates and performs the art. Data collected were transcribed and translated from Utesi language to English. The notes taken during interview, observation and participation were examined to identify the stylistic features and meaning in the songs and then analysed descriptively. The findings of the study reveal that Utesi folksongs possess imagery, repetitions, euphemism, alliteration such as assonance and consonance and the words are carefully chosen to appeal to the audience. In terms of meaning, the study shows that these songs offer a lot of education to the audience. 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. The study also reveals that each of the stylistic features however, has identifiable functions which contribute to effective meaning of the folksong. It can be concluded that these features trigger and play important roles in passing the intention of the singer across.