PAINTED IN WORDS AND NOTES: THE LANGUAGE OF MUSIC IN AMERICAN SONGWRITING
Abstract
The song, as a multifaceted cultural phenomenon, has long captivated the attention of various academic disciplines, each offering a unique perspective on this intricate art form. This paper explores the rich tapestry of the song, delving into its literary, historical, and cultural dimensions. Drawing on insights from linguistics, folklore, and musicology, we uncover the intricate interplay of elements that make the song a captivating cultural artifact.
Within the realm of popular songs, we find a reflection of the artist's perception of the world, a mirror through which societal values, beliefs, and traditions are refracted. As we examine this phenomenon, we reveal the deep connections between the popular song and broader aspects of human culture, including history, everyday life, material culture, ceremonies, and the collective mindset of a nation. It becomes evident that the common elements shared between musical and verbal languages are integral units within the broader framework of cultural expression.
Our analysis encompasses both popular and traditional songs, with the latter firmly rooted in the domain of folklore. In this exploration, we identify points of convergence between linguistics and musical folklore. These intersections include the presence of socially embedded linguistic invariants within folklore, the linear structure inherent in both musical and verbal texts, and the dialectical nuances in speech that resonate with the national intonations found in music.
Moreover, we conceptualize the song as a holistic entity, comprising musical composition, poetic text, and performance. In doing so, we acknowledge that each song, whether it belongs to the realm of popular music or tradition, is a testament to cultural creativity. It is an art form that bears the imprint of its author's cultural identity and serves as a bridge between the creator and the audience, with both contributing to the ongoing narrative of cultural perception
Keywords:
Song, Cultural Phenomenon, Folklore, Linguistics, MusicologyDownloads
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References
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