Exploring the Beauty of Vietnamese Folklore

Legends and Beliefs

Vietnamese folklore is a rich and diverse treasure trove, passed down through generations. Legends and myths like Son Tinh Thuy Tinh (Mountain Spirit and Water Spirit), the story of Betel and Areca nut, or the legend of Hoan Kiem Lake (Returned Sword Lake), not only entertain but also reflect the worldview, dreams, and aspirations of the ancient Vietnamese people. We see the reverence for nature, respect for ancestors, and belief in good things. Folk beliefs with gods, spirits, and ghosts also contribute to a diverse and fascinating cultural picture.

Folk Songs, Proverbs, and Traditional Music

Folk songs, proverbs, and traditional music are vivid testaments to the intellect and soul of the Vietnamese people. Short and concise folk songs express family affection, love, and neighborly bonds. Proverbs are life lessons accumulated over generations, concise, memorable, and practical. Traditional music, with its melodious tunes and heartfelt lyrics, reflects the life, activities, and emotions of the people.

Some examples:

Folk song: “Does the boat remember the shore? The shore waits for the boat with all its heart.”

Proverb: “He who eats the fruit should remember the one who planted the tree.”

Traditional music: Ho Then, Quan Ho, Southern Vietnamese folk music… each region has its unique melodies, reflecting the characteristic cultural beauty.

Festivals and Customs

Traditional festivals are an indispensable part of Vietnamese folklore. From large festivals like Tet Nguyen Dan (Lunar New Year), Hung Kings Temple Festival to smaller festivals in different localities, all have deep cultural and spiritual significance. Each festival has its own ceremonies and traditional games, reflecting the rich spiritual life of the Vietnamese people.

Folk Art

Vietnamese folk art is also extremely diverse and rich, from Dong Ho and Hang Trong paintings to Bat Trang ceramics, embroidery… Each product is imbued with traditional cultural features, showing the talent and skill of the artisans.

Preservation and Development of Folklore

Preserving and developing folklore is the responsibility of every Vietnamese citizen. We need to actively learn and pass on these precious cultural values to future generations, so that folklore will forever exist and develop.