African Poetry of the Living Dead

This is a translation and discussion of a sub-genre of Igbo oral poetry. The central position of the masquerade cult in Igbo religion, world view, culture and art makes this poetry relevant to Igbo society. Essays on the intellectual, socio-cultural and literary background are included.

---

This is a translation and discussion of a sub-genre of Igbo oral poetry, the poetry of the living dead. The central position of the masquerade cult in Igbo religion, world view, culture and art makes this masquerade poetry relevant to the people's society, while also aiming to be instructive and entertaining. This text demonstrates what may be regarded as the high-water mark of Igbo oral poetry, as well as offering essays on the intellectual, socio-cultural, and literary background. It is a study not only in oral poetry but also Igbo traditional world view, beliefs, and culture.