The Al-Taghrooda poetry of the Bedouins is composed and recited by camel riders through the deserts of the United Arab Emirates and the Sultanate of Oman.
Al-Taghrooda is a form of improvised poetry that originated in the Arab Emirates' deserts, mountainous regions, and rural villages. It was originally practiced by Bedouin camel riders and herders but is now found throughout the country as a respected component of Emirati culture.
In addition to passing the time, this kind of chanting encouraged camels to walk in step with one another. The chanters could even increase the pace of the camels by quickening the rhythm of the poem.
During Al-Taghrooda's traditional performances, the poems are chanted around campfires, at weddings, at camel races, and at national and heritage festivals. Some forms of Al-Taghrooda poetry are also incorporated into traditional performances such as Al-Ayyala, which is performed by women. Also, women compose and chant Al-Taghrooda poetry while engaged in collective work like Al-Sadu weaving.
The Bedouins believe that chanting entertains riders and stimulates the animals to walk in time to the chanting. The poems are usually short, seven lines or less, and they're improvised and repeated between two groups of riders, often in antiphonal singing.
In Al-Taghrooda poetry, riders would improvise the words of each poetry recitation during their journeys. These verses were short, with seven or fewer lines. Riders would then alternately recite the verses between two groups of riders. The lead singer would normally chant the first line, followed by the rest of the group. Once again, the second line was chanted, followed by a repeat, and so on.
As Al-Taghrooda is straightforward, it does not use complicated metaphors. Al-Taghrooda is known for its use of love and devotion by the singer to loved ones, relatives, friends, and tribal chiefs. In Emirati culture, poetry is commonly cited as a source of wisdom and insight into Emirati history.
Other functions of the recitation include settling disputes between individuals or tribes, highlighting historic achievements, and highlighting contemporary issues such as driving safety and health. The performances also offer a chance for the audiences to learn about and see a glimpse of their past history and traditional way of life. People in the community learn how to chant and compose poems from their elders.
Al-Taghrooda performances provide Emirati audiences insights into their history and culture. Unlike in the past, Al-Taghrooda performances nowadays are not necessarily accompanied by chanting. They are also enjoyed in a written and recorded form, in addition, to live performances.
References
(https://ich.unesco.org/en/RL/al-taghrooda-traditional-bedouin-chanted-poetry-in-the-united-arab-emirates-and-the-sultanate-of-oman-00744) (https://abudhabiculture.ae/en/unesco/intangible-cultural-heritage/al-taghrooda-unesco)