Abstract:
this research is a response to dogmatic generalization which prompt students and teachers of Kiswahili to regard its poetry as difficult to penetrate and thus not enjoyable. It strives to exploit, express and underline the principles underlying analysis and understanding of swahili poetry. Although primary reference is made to vita vya wadachi kutamalaki Mrima, the study focuses on swahili poetry in general. Guided by a multilevel approach to style, which adopts applied techniques and concepts of modern linguistics to the study of literature, the research is based on four major categories: lexdical, grammatical, figures of speech, and cohesion and context. The study reveals that swahili poetry cannot be liked by being looked at hazily. A poem’s totality, uniqueness and precise effects can only be grasped through careful and faithful attention. The research findings are an invaluable source to the understanding oo vita vya wadachi as a classical poem, swahili epic genre, and swahili poetry in general.
