Resonating Romance in Ethnomusicology: Studying Metaphoric Language Styles in Select Kashmiri Romantic Song Texts

Abstract

This research delves into the realm of ethnomusicology, specifically focusing on the resonating romance within the musicscape of Kashmir. The study aims to examine the metaphoric language styles employed in select Kashmiri romantic song texts, unraveling the nuanced expressions of love and cultural identity embedded in the lyrics. As the ‘musicscape’ of Kashmir plays a vital role in preserving cultural values, this research identifies noticeable gaps in its representation, propagation, and the crucial aspect of ‘enculturation’ among the younger generation. Drawing on Merriam’s concept of ‘enculturation,’ the study seeks to understand how Kashmiri music serves as a vehicle for transmitting cultural values to the youth. With a primary emphasis on song texts, the research employs a stylistic exploration to analyze the figurative language used in romantic lyrics. By doing so, it aims to shed light on the intricate interplay between musical expression and cultural identity, contributing valuable insights to the broader field of ethnomusicology. This research not only addresses the lacunae in the representation of Kashmiri musicscape but also advocates for the significance of preserving and transmitting cultural values through the lyrical narratives of romantic song texts. By conducting an analysis of select song texts, this study aspires to contribute to the broader field of ethnomusicology, while also celebrating the artistic heritage of Kashmir.