Of Proverbs and Postproverbial (Re)Constructions

Abstract

This paper evaluates postproverbial (re)constructions of selected Igbo proverbs and the ‘altering alternatives’ regenerated from the original Igbo proverbs. Eighteen randomly selected Igbo proverbs, the proverbial expressions and their postproverbial (re)constructions were subjected to critical analysis. The study revealed that there are noticeable changings in rendering of the selected proverbs. These changings occur largely either due to lack of an in-depth knowledge in the usage of the traditional proverbs, disconnection with the custodians/sources of the Igbo proverbs, urbanisation influence on the Igbo speakers or both. Hence the manufacturing of the ‘altering alternatives’, known as postproverbials. The paper, therefore, urges Igbo language speakers and the would-be users, to draw closer by retracing their step in the choice and usage of Igbo proverbs against the near-overbearing influence of proverbials on the autochthonous, symbolic, semantic, and philosophical essence of Igbo traditional proverbs.