An Analysis of English Lullabies

Abstract

            This paper summarizes the results of an analysis of literary pattern, content and social functions of English lullabies. Popular lullabies in English speaking countries, mainly the United Kingdom and the United States of America, were collected for data analysis. The study found that, due to their origin as a folk and oral literary form, the lyrics of the lullabies were in short poetic form with simple, everyday words and with flexible rhyme scheme and structure. However, some popular lullabies were written before being performed. As a result, the lyrics are longer with a more consistent structure. The content and tone of the lullabies are generally soothing and have a role in the teaching and socialization process on young children. Nevertheless, some lullabies contain opposite content. For example; some imply social or political dissidence, some connote danger, chaos and disorder judged through the eyes of the white immigrants when encountering the norm of the native people.