Music and poetry have walked hand-in-hand throughout time – think of the minstrel. In antiquity, often poetry (which was the popular form of storytelling and communal entertainment) was put to music or sung. FOLK poetry and FOLK music share the the foundation of being based in oral traditions, being passed from generation to generation. Another tie between Folk music and folk literature is that it is often see in rural communities, shared among families and small groups.
Folk music is often used to tell a story about life, which is why it varies from region to region, changes across time, and is affected culturally. Of course, this is also true for poetry. Poems use sound and words to convey their message – to tell their story that is reflective about life. Both have rhythm, cadence, and are universally understood. After all, “art reflects life.’
“Folklore poetry draws its inspiration from the legends, myths, and traditional beliefs of a specific culture or community. Often passed down through generations, these poems reflect the values, history, and collective wisdom of the people.
They can include elements such as oral history, fables, fairy tales, proverbs, and more. Folklore poetry is a vital link to the past, preserving cultural heritage while often also commenting on the present. This genre is as diverse as the cultures that inspire it.”
15+ Must-Read Folklore Poems
J.M. NORTHUP 