In the heart of Samoan tradition lies lauga—a captivating practice that embodies everything fa'asamoa represents: identity, inheritance, respect, service, gifting, reciprocity, and knowledge. This sacred ritual of oratory has been passed down through generations, yet today many Samoan people, especially in the diaspora, find themselves disconnected from this rich cultural heritage.
Lauga: Understanding Samoan Oratory serves as your bridge to this profound cultural practice. The book delves into the intricacies of lauga, explaining its key stages and the sophisticated rhetorical inventory that makes Samoan speeches so compelling. Whether delivered as lauga fa'amatai (chiefly speeches) or lauga fa'alelotu (sermons), these orations are filled with knowledge, praxis, and skill that have sustained Samoan communities for centuries.
Written by an expert author and featuring insights from 20 guest writers—many of whom are well-known and respected orators—this book combines traditional knowledge with practical application. You'll gain access to insider perspectives and techniques that aren't available elsewhere. The contributors share their wisdom not just as theory, but as living practice that continues to evolve while honoring its roots.
This accessible guide is ideal for several audiences. If you've been called upon to speak at significant occasions like weddings, funerals, or community events, the book provides the framework you need. Cultural enthusiasts will appreciate the depth of analysis, while diaspora members can reconnect with their heritage. Students of rhetoric, anthropology, and Pacific studies will find invaluable insights into this sophisticated oral tradition.
More than just a technical manual, Lauga preserves a vital cultural practice for future generations while making it accessible to contemporary practitioners. The knowledge and skills contained within these pages represent the collective wisdom of Samoan oratory, ensuring that this sacred art continues to thrive in our modern world.
