An ecolinguistic analysis of folksongs in endangered Pagu language

This study examines Pagu an almost extinct language of North Halmahera, Indonesia, by studying its literary wealth in the form of folksongs. Three Pagu songs are analyzed with an ecolinguistic perspective. This descriptive analytic study results in three findings. First, ecolinguistic analysis shows the emotional closeness of the Pagu community with their natural surroundings although sometimes nature is also considered to hinder humans' journey. Second, the three folksongs contain cultural values and customs that show the identity of the Pagu people to be continually held. Lastly, the songs are influenced by Tobelo language which is more widely used. In conclusion, maintaining interaction between language users and caring for such cultural treasure as folksongs can prevent the extinction of the Pagu language while maintaining Pagu cultural and natural sustainability. Keywords: Ecolinguistics, folksongs, identity, Non-Austronesian language