Exploring the Beauty of Vietnamese Folklore

Legends and Myths

Vietnamese folklore is a priceless treasure trove, preserving captivating legends and myths passed down through generations. From stories about the origins of rivers and mountains to legends about gods and heroes, all bear the distinct historical and cultural imprint of the Vietnamese people. The legend of Son Tinh and Thuy Tinh is a prime example, reflecting the aspiration to conquer nature and the indomitable spirit of the Vietnamese people. These stories not only entertain but also educate, conveying moral values and valuable lessons for future generations.

Folk Songs, Proverbs, and Folk Music

Folk songs, proverbs, and folk music are distinctive genres of Vietnamese folklore, reflecting the lives, thoughts, and emotions of the Vietnamese people. Folk songs, with their concise and evocative verses, express love for homeland, country, lovers, and family. Proverbs are short, image-rich sayings, carrying profound philosophical meaning, encapsulating the life experiences of our ancestors. Folk music, with its melodious and lyrical tunes, reveals the free-spirited and optimistic soul of the Vietnamese.

Some examples:

Folk song: “My body is like a stalk of rice in the field/ Swaying gently in the wind of my homeland.”
Proverb: “When eating a fruit, remember the person who planted the tree.”
Folk music: Ho then, Ly con sao, …

Traditional Festivals

Traditional festivals are an indispensable part of the spiritual and cultural life of the Vietnamese people. Each festival has its own meaning, linked to the beliefs and customs of each region. The Hung Kings Temple Festival is a prime example, demonstrating the gratitude of descendants to the Hung Kings, the ancestors of the nation. These festivals are not only occasions for people to play and relax, but also opportunities to maintain and promote traditional cultural values.

Folk Arts

Vietnamese folk art is incredibly diverse and rich, encompassing art forms such as folk paintings, embroidery, weaving, and wood carving. Each artwork bears the distinct characteristics of each region, reflecting the skill and finesse of the artisans. Dong Ho paintings with their familiar images of rural life, and Bat Trang ceramics with their elegant and refined beauty, are testaments to the flourishing development of Vietnamese folk art.

Preservation and Promotion of Folklore

The preservation and promotion of folklore is the responsibility of every Vietnamese citizen. We need to actively participate in activities to preserve and promote folklore, educating younger generations about the value of our traditional culture. Only when we work together can Vietnamese folklore continue to exist and thrive.