Poetry and songs

As the Somali language is basically of an oral nature, and didn't exist in a written form until 1972, the Somali people have acquired and cultivated the art of memorizing and speaking for long hours extemporaneously (not to mention being extremely keen listeners and learners!)

Poetry and prose are represented in the form of the plays, dramatic poems, proverbs, sayings, stories, lectures, songs and other forms that a language produces. Poets are highly respected personalities, due to the influence they have on the people. Poetry holds considerable sway on politics and sometimes becomes an instigation for bitter blood feuds. At the same time, poetry also plays an important role in peace making between clans and for communicating important messages for social change to the people.

As language is a major factor of homogeneity of the Somalis, it also plays a vital part in their daily lives. Poetry is used for rituals of daily life such entertainment, marriages, settlements of conflicts, condolences, and providing motivation to become a better person.

Sometimes poets of different clans hold contests for hours --- people memorize their poems, chant them and continue to memorize them to pass onto future generations.

Abilities as a political or religious leader, a warrior or a suitor, depend, in part, on one's way with words. Since pride is important in Somali society, the ability to use language to save face is essential. Humor, based on puns and word play, is used to blunt criticism and to extricate oneself from embarrassing situations.

This use of humor is captured in a Somali proverb: "A man with a sense of humor is never at a loss for words or action." It is in the art of oral poetry and song that Somalis excel. Whether used as a challenge, a courting technique, or political rhetoric, poetry and song remain a vital part of Somali culture and daily life, enhanced rather than diminished by radio broadcasting.

Poetry recitations are often accompanied by the chewing of qat,* a mild stimulant, which many Somalis believe helps one to think and talk better.

One indication of the changing public role of Somali women is their increased use of poetry as a means of public expression.

Camels, the basis of life for traditional Somali herders, frequently figure in poetic expression. A young man compares his tender feelings for his beloved to a camel's feelings for her young: "I am afflicted with the trauma of frustrated love as a camel whose baby has been unjustly separated from her."

The centre of the Somali music world, once in Mogadishu, now exists in Toronto, with places like the Somali Hall of Fame commanding international recognition as a major distribution centre. We invite you to explore this section of the site for some of the most prominent Somali-Canadian musicians and poets.

Faduma Alim on Somali Poetry-MP3 (producer-Garvia Bailey for CBC radio's Wordbeat, 2003)

Traditional Somali dance - Quicktime video