A Study of Interpreting Text: The Sümi Naga Folklores

Folklore connects the past with the present to the future. Hence, by studying and interpreting the folklore of the Sümi Naga it can offer important perspectives in understanding the indigenous Sümicultural society. The Sümis folklore is a rich repository of cultural values and wisdom. Therefore it can become a key element in understanding the heritage of its people or tribe. It can also be a great element in understanding the history of the Sümis and can produce a feeling and a strong sentiment towards culture and unity andupholds the moral value of its culture and society. In this present society where human and social values are deteriorating faster than ever, folklore can provide an effective moral education in the society. Folklores contain many aspects of culture which serve as an important source of cultural knowledge and understanding. Thomas Wright has rightly said “There is no subject of inquiry relating to the history of a people more interesting than its popularmythology and superstitions”. Thomas goes on to say that folklore is the source to trace deeply the formation of its nation and its identity than in any other thing. Further validates folklore as an aspect of culture through the stories he collected in Scotland in 1859 and 1860 which can teach about the people, their origin and their habits, pasts and present. Pocious writes that hooked rug made in New -Foundland incorporated traditional symmetrical patterns which have a geographical and temporal distribution. Contrasts to these, other hooked rugs are individualistic and asymmetrical in design. Individualistic and asymmetrical rugs are spread in the parlor for merchants and clergyman away from the noise and smell of the kitchen where interaction is hierarchial. On the other hand, the traditional symmetrical, geometrical rugs are used to welcome friends and neighbours into the kitchen. Differences in hooked rug styles relate to where the rugs are used which reflects social stratification.