Changamoto Za Mikondo Mipya Ya Utunzi Wa Mashairi Ya Kiswahili: Mfano Wa Tunu Ya Ushairi

ABSTRACT

This study investigated the challenges brought about by new stylistic perspectives in Kiswahili poetry. The main objective was to identify new stylistic perspectives in Kiswahili poetry, the settings which contributes to the new patterns of poetic compositions, and the challenges brought about by these new perspectives. In achieving the objectives of the study, the research was guided by the theory of stylistics which was expounded by among others Coombs (1953), Leech (1961). The study has analysed data from an antology entitled diwani ya Tunu ya Ushairi. Inorder to achieve these goals, the study analysed poems from the antology of diwani ya Tunu which apart from focusing on the well known stylistic perspectives, also has got new stylistic modes of style in Kiswahili prosodic poetry. These new styles in Kiswahili poetry have made it necessary to revist our understanding on how Kiswahili poetry is described and categorized. The research was mainly library based where background reading was done on relevant theories on the criticism and reading of Kiswahili poetry. In addition, information on various issues regarding the styles of poetry was gathered. A sample of Kiswahili poems from diwani ya Tunu ya Ushairi was selected using purposive sampling techniques. Using this primary data, the researcher did indepth reading and analysis of the new stylistic attributes under the guidance of the theory of the stylistics. The results were convyed using a descriptive approach using of examples as per the objectives and organized into five chapters. The research found out that development of poetic composition has no end. Therefore, there is need to review the concepts and terminologies used inorder to be in consonant with current trends.