Tembang Batanghari Sembilan: Implicitness, Functions and Poor Inherent Culture

Abstract

This study aims to describe the meanings contained in each lyrical verse in the Batanghari Sembilan folk song and to explain clearly the function that arises from each meaning based on the theory of Rolland Barthes (1972). In this study, the researcher selected and analyzed only one folk song that contained 13 rhymes with semiotic perspective and explored the socio-cultural context related with the song lyrics. This study uses a qualitative descriptive approach. Data collection was carried out by listening to and writing all the song lyrics, then translating them into Indonesian. Afterwards, the data are analyzed based on Rolland Barthes' semiotic theory connected with socio-cultural context. The results of the study show that there are many kinds of meaning such as sadness, lamentation, pity, denial, criticism, pessimism, and gratitude which describe the overall flow of the song. In terms of cultural functions, the Batanghari Sembilan song shows several functions such as the function of expressing feelings, communication, social criticism, cultural preservation, and entertainment. Therefore, folk songs are not only talk about the art and wealth of a region, but also can reflect an implicit meaning, various functions, and identity habits.