Southern Thai dialects in the crafting of political lyrics: exploring the language and ideas of Nora Somnuek Chusil

This paper aims to examine the literary strategies and political perspectives of Somnuek Chusil, a renowned Nora artist in the Southern Thai region. Contrast to recent international and Thai research on Nora dance that focused on the aspect of ritual, social function, and adaptation under the condition of global modernity, the authors’ analysis centers on the noted Nora artist’s lyrical composition, encompassing 40 of lyrics, to understand his political worldview and literary strategy as part of local experience to the changing of Thai society. The findings reveal four language strategies employed by Somnuek—simile, hyperbole, the use of idioms, and incorporation of the Southern Thai dialect. Of particular note is the dialect’s distinctive role in critiquing political figures and instilling a sense of awareness regarding rights, freedom, and democratic citizenship. Despite the diverse interpretations of political concepts in global academia, Somnuek skillfully harnesses various dialects and writing techniques making him being locally competent interlocutor, and ascending to the status of a famous folk artist in southern Thailand.