Interpretation of Finnish Oral Tradition in Contemporary Music

This bachelor thesis deals with the use of Finnish oral literature, specifically with oral poetry in contemporary song lyrics. Oral literature was spread orally; mostly in the form of songs and that is the reason why music is a suitable way how to revive this tradition even nowadays and how to present it to its new listeners. The thesis outlines the basic character of oral tradition, its popularity in Finland and character of folk music with its brief history. The thesis is further divided into three main chapters, namely epic, lyric and ritual poems. In each of the chapters there is explained the stated sphere of oral literature as interpreted by specialised publications. Characteristic features are backed up by samples of selected song lyrics. Keywords: Finnish oral tradition, Finnish oral poetry, Finnish folk music, Finnish metal music, song lyric