Sulkulause

Sulkulause, also known as the Suomi nisetula suullinen, is a quasi-poetic and partly metrical type of Finnish saying or phrase. It originated during the 19th century and was particularly popular among rural communities in Finland.

This type of phrase is often longer than a single sentence and less coherent than a narrative poem. It is characterized by elements of storytelling, recalling the stories and experiences of the people who first created them. Sulkulause typically follows specific patterns of rhythm and meter, and they convey the history, culture, and traditions of the Finnish people.

The purpose of a sulkulause is to entertain, teach, or pass on cultural knowledge within a small community. It serves as an oral tradition that not only entertains but also informs and connects individuals to their lived experiences and passed-down wisdom.

The use of sulkulause has a shared resemblance with the privileges and burdens of fellowship within Finnish communities. These phrases can reflect everyday observations and anecdotes, along with progress through seasonal ages, traditional places, and tragic or triumphant events.

Passing down these types of phrases through generations provided a lasting legacy for Finnish folklore in forms of multiplex, spoken traditions. Examples of sulkulause continue to hold integrity and relevance in Finnish storytelling to this day.

The study of sulkulause offers a window into the cultural and historical context of Finnish society, particularly in the areas of social organization and customary practice.