Abstract
The aim of this study was to discuss of some poetic aspects in isiZulu hymns of two churches, the Methodist Church of Southern Africa titled: Incwadi Yezinkonzo Nezingoma (n. d.) and the Seventh-day Adventist hymn book titled: UKrestu Esihlabelelweni (n. d.). The poetic aspects that are examined are linking, parallelism, alliteration, rhyme and refrain. The examples used to analyse these poetic aspects are from the two hymn books. The data collected is analysed qualitatively. This study uses the stylistics theory as this research focuses on the style of the songwriters. The findings of this study reveal that the IsiZulu songwriters of the Methodist Church of Southern Africa and Seventh-day Adventist Church also use poetic language when composing their hymns. It also reveals that music and poetry cannot be entirely separated and that good songwriters know how to play with language in attempts to communicate their message to the audience. It is hoped that this research will contribute to the recognition of church songwriters and bring them to the level they deserve, because they are talented. In addition, this study may encourage further research on hymns of churches as this study focuses on the external structure only. There are lots of other poetic aspects that need attention.
M.A. (African Languages)