Catalogue versification in Southern Sotho

Abstract

The article investigates the use of the catalogue as a compositional device in Southern Sotho poetry, both oral and modern. Occurring frequently in the poems of such oral poets as Griffith and Lerotholi Mojela, it combines with well-known formulaic techniques such as repetition and parallelism. In modern poetry N.S. Litabe proves to be a foremost exponent of the technique, using it to convey vastness, excitement, size, fullness, intensity, movement, abundance, confusion and even bewilderment. Other poets sometimes use it to communicate oneness with territory, landscape and people.