Exploring the Beauty of Vietnamese Folklore

Legends and Fairy Tales: A Source of Creativity

Vietnamese folklore is a priceless treasure trove, preserving fascinating legends and fairy tales. From stories about the origins of mountains and rivers, plants and animals, to tales of love, courage, and intelligence, all reflect the rich imagination and philosophy of life of the Vietnamese people in the past. Legends often have a historical aspect, explaining the origin of things and phenomena, while fairy tales are educational and morally uplifting, offering profound lessons about ethics and life.

For example, the legend of Son Tinh and Thuy Tinh depicts the battle between two forces of nature, reflecting humanity’s respect and fear of nature’s power. Fairy tales like Tam Cam and Thach Sanh reflect the yearning for justice, the triumph of good over evil, and the punishment of the wicked.

Proverbs, Folk Songs, and Traditional Music: The Voice of the Nation

Proverbs: The Wisdom of the People

Proverbs are short, concise sayings summarizing the life experiences of the people. In proverbs, we find wisdom about nature, humanity, and society. “One tree doesn’t make a forest/ Three trees clustered make a high mountain” is a classic example of the power of unity. Proverbs are not just sayings but valuable lessons in morality.

Folk Songs and Traditional Music: Music of Love and Life

Folk songs and traditional music are lyrical songs expressing the feelings, thoughts, and aspirations of the people. From love between couples and family affection to sentiments about the homeland and country, all are expressed through heartfelt and profound melodies. “Co Tam” and “Li keo chai” are prime examples of the diversity and richness of Vietnamese folk songs and music.

Folk Art: Skill and Creativity

Vietnamese folk art is also incredibly diverse and rich, from Dong Ho paintings and Hang Trong paintings to traditional ceramics, embroidery, and traditional musical instruments like the dan bau, dan nguyet, and bamboo flute. Each artwork is imbued with the cultural identity and spirit of the Vietnamese people, reflecting the skill, creativity, and love of labor of the people.

Preserving and promoting folklore is the responsibility of every Vietnamese citizen. Inheriting and developing traditional cultural values will help us preserve our national identity and enrich the intangible cultural heritage of our country.