An Analysis of Literary Language in Rap Songs of “Phujhan Long Mic”

Abstract

This article is an analysis of literary language found in eight rap songs composed by Phujhan Long Mic, a Thai folk-rap artist, focusing on two literary aspects: the language system and emotional expression. The former deals with the study of word selection and levels of meaning; the latter concerns Thai Literature Rasa (sentiments). The results revealed that in terms of word selection, two prominent techniques were found; namely, 1) word variation, which was considered well-selected, suitable for conveying the music mood, and 2) diverse intonation, both consonants and vowels, together with compounds. Regarding the levels of meaning, moreover, certain figures of speech, including simile, metaphor, hyperbole, allusion, as well as the use of symbols – both personal and universal – were found. As to emotional expression, Saowarotchani Rasa (admiring beauty) was found in five songs, whereas the three others depicted one Rasa each, that is, Naripramot Rasa (courting women), Phirotwathang Rasa (chiding), and Sallapangkaphisai Rasa (lamenting) respectively. This indicated that Phujhan Long Mic’s compositions put more emphasis on admiring the beauty of humans, lives, and society rather than on universal emotions. The characteristic of Rap song is similar to another literary works.