Exploring the Beauty of Vietnamese Folklore

Legends and Fairy Tales: Sources of Creativity

Vietnamese folklore is an incredibly rich and diverse treasure trove, passed down through generations. Legends and fairy tales are two distinctive genres of folk literature, reflecting the rich imagination, life experiences, and beliefs of the Vietnamese people about life, the universe, and humanity. These stories are not merely entertainment but also carry profound educational meaning, conveying lessons about morality, kindness, and justice.

For example: The story of Son Tinh and Thuy Tinh reflects the frequent floods in the Red River Delta, as well as the human desire to control nature. The fairy tale Tam and Cam embodies the dream of justice, the triumph of good over evil, and the aspiration for happiness of the people.

Proverbs, Folk Songs, and Traditional Music: The Soul of a Nation

Proverbs, folk songs, and traditional music are concise and evocative genres of folk literature, reflecting the intelligence and soul of the Vietnamese people. Proverbs are short, image-rich sayings that summarize the life experiences of the people about nature, labor, society, and humanity. Folk songs are lyrical poems expressing the feelings, thoughts, and aspirations of the people about love, homeland, and country. Traditional music is folk songs that reflect the customs, traditions, and cultural activities of each region.

For example: The proverb “Ăn quả nhớ kẻ trồng cây” (Remember the one who planted the tree when you eat the fruit) expresses gratitude. The folk song “Thương thay thân phận con tằm/ Lấy tơ làm áo cho người mặc” (Pity the silkworm’s fate/ Spinning silk to make clothes for others to wear) reflects the hardship of life. The Quan Ho folk songs of Bac Ninh with their smooth and soulful melodies.

Folk Arts: A Subtle Combination of Culture and Art

Vietnamese folk art demonstrates the dexterity, talent, and creativity of the people. From Dong Ho paintings, Hang Trong paintings, Bat Trang ceramics, to performing arts such as water puppetry, Cheo opera, and Tuong opera… all bear the strong imprint of national culture, reflecting the life, beliefs, and dreams of the people.

For example: Dong Ho paintings with their close and lively images of rural life. Water puppetry with its exquisite puppets, performing fascinating folk tales.

Preserving and Promoting Folklore

Preserving and promoting folklore is the responsibility of every Vietnamese citizen. We need practical measures to preserve, protect, and develop these precious cultural values for future generations. This includes researching, collecting, archiving, educating, and disseminating folklore to the community.