Bird songs and bird calls as sources of oral poetry in Zambia

bibliographic database
Line

Periodical article

Title:	Bird songs and bird calls as sources of oral poetry in Zambia
Author:	Mtonga, Mapopa
Year:	1998-1999
Periodical:	The Journal of Humanities (Lusaka) (ISSN 1027-7455)
Volume:	2
Pages:	1-28
Language:	English
Notes:	biblio. refs.
Geographic terms:	Zambia Central Africa
Subjects:	oral poetry literature poetry birds Sound in literature Folk poetry Children's poetry
Abstract:	Human imitation of bird sound has given rise to a special verse or poetry among most cultural groups living in Zambia today. Among the Tumbuka and Chewa of the Lundazi District, bird and other sound imitation poetry which falls within the category of children's verse is popularly known as 'visangu'. This is creative, imaginary oral poetry which is sung, chanted, chorused and recited 'on site' or during playtime activities. Among the Bemba of the Northern and Luapula provinces and the Leya of the Southern Province children's verse pertaining to bird and animal behaviour also abounds. The author examines the nature and characteristics of some 'visangu' poetic compositions and performances among the Tumbuka and Chewa, and the categories of birds associated with them. Examples from studies on the Bemba and Leya are cited wherever possible. Bibliogr.