Exploring the Beauty of Vietnamese Folklore

The Richness of Vietnamese Folk Literature

Vietnamese folk literature is an invaluable treasure trove, preserving stories, songs, proverbs, and folk poems that reflect the lives, thoughts, and emotions of the Vietnamese people across generations. From mythical fairy tales like Sơn Tinh Thủy Tinh and the legend of Hoan Kiem Lake, to sweet and profound folk songs, all contribute to a diverse and rich cultural landscape.

Legends and Fairy Tales: Origins and Significance

Legends often tell of historical figures and events, embellished with magical and mystical elements. For example, the legend of the Trung Sisters, embodies the patriotism and indomitable spirit of the nation. Fairy tales, on the other hand, have a strong educational value, teaching people about right and wrong, good and evil, often featuring typical characters like kind-hearted people, orphans, giants, and witches… These stories not only entertain but also convey moral values and life experiences to generations.

Proverbs and Folk Songs: Wisdom and Emotion

Proverbs are short, concise sayings that summarize the life experiences of the people. They often have a generalizing nature, containing valuable lessons about life, nature, and people. For example: “Ăn quả nhớ kẻ trồng cây” (Remember the planter when eating the fruit), “Một con ngựa đau cả tàu bỏ cỏ” (One sick horse spoils the whole field).

Folk songs are lyrical folk songs, often expressing family affection, love, friendship, or reflecting the life and work of the people. Folk songs often have gentle, profound melodies that touch people’s hearts. For example: “Thân em như củ ấu gai/Ruột trong thì trắng, vỏ ngoài thì đen” (My body is like a thorny jujube/White inside, black outside).

Folk Music: Cultural Identity

Vietnamese folk music is diverse with many different genres such as Xoan singing, Then singing, Quan Ho Bac Ninh… Each region has its own melodies, reflecting the unique cultural identity of that locality. Folk music is not only a means of entertainment but also a means of transmitting information, education, preserving and promoting national cultural traditions.

Preservation and Development of Folklore

Preserving and developing folklore is the responsibility of every Vietnamese citizen. We need to actively learn, study, promote, and introduce these cultural values to the world. This not only helps preserve national cultural identity but also contributes to enriching the world’s cultural heritage.