Syair is a form of Malay poetry, which can be traced back to the 15th century. During the colonial era, it was adapted to a popular art form, and its use has since spread throughout Southeast Asia and the world. Syair is known for its intricate structure and use of rhyme, making it a challenge to master. But what exactly are the different types of syair? This article will explain the various types of syair, including the most popular, and provide examples of each.
Classical Syair
Classical syair is the oldest form of syair. It is composed of five lines with a rhyme scheme of a-a-a-a-b. The first and third lines must contain sixteen syllables, while the second, fourth and fifth lines must contain twelve syllables. Its structure is quite rigid and it is often written in a formal style. Examples of classical syair include “Aku Ingin Kucuri Bintang” by Zairin Zain, “Tersenyumlah” by M.T.Tohir, and “Ilahi” by J.K.Nasution.
Modern Syair
Modern syair is a much more flexible form of syair. It is composed of six lines with a rhyme scheme of a-a-a-b-b-b. The length of the lines can be varied, though the first and fourth lines tend to be longer than the others. It is often written in a more informal style than classical syair. Examples of modern syair include “Cinta Muda” by H.A.Hassan, “Ingatkan Aku” by K.B.Nasution, and “Kasih Sayang” by M.A.Hassan.
Jawi Syair
Jawi syair is a type of syair written in the Jawi script. It is composed of seven lines with a rhyme scheme of a-a-a-a-b-b-b. The length of the lines can be varied, though the first and fifth lines tend to be longer than the others. It is often written in a more formal style than modern syair. Examples of Jawi syair include “Pelajaran Cinta” by H.J.Othman, “Sang Gagak” by M.A.Hassan, and “Sesal Jauh” by A.K.Nasution.
Bentuk Syair
Bentuk syair is a type of syair written in the Bentuk script. It is composed of eight lines with a rhyme scheme of a-a-a-a-b-b-b-b. The length of the lines can be varied, though the first and seventh lines tend to be longer than the others. It is often written in a more informal style than Jawi syair. Examples of Bentuk syair include “Berkasih” by S.S.Hassan, “Nyanyian Rindu” by K.A.Hassan, and “Tersenyumlah” by M.T.Tohir.
Keroncong Syair
Keroncong syair is a type of syair written in the Keroncong script. It is composed of nine lines with a rhyme scheme of a-a-a-a-b-b-b-b-b. The length of the lines can be varied, though the first and eighth lines tend to be longer than the others. It is often written in a more informal style than Bentuk syair. Examples of Keroncong syair include “Kasih Sayang” by M.A.Hassan, “Tersenyumlah” by M.T.Tohir, and “Langit” by K.A.Hassan.
Hindustani Syair
Hindustani syair is a type of syair written in the Hindustani script. It is composed of ten lines with a rhyme scheme of a-a-a-a-b-b-b-b-b-b. The length of the lines can be varied, though the first and ninth lines tend to be longer than the others. It is often written in a more formal style than Keroncong syair. Examples of Hindustani syair include “Cinta Muda” by H.A.Hassan, “Jalur Hatiku” by M.S.Hassan, and “Kasih Sayang” by M.A.Hassan.
Conclusion
Syair is a complex and evolving form of Malay poetry. There are several different types of syair, each with its own unique characteristics and structure. Classical syair is the oldest form of syair, while modern, Jawi, Bentuk, Keroncong, and Hindustani syair are more recent developments. All forms of syair are composed of lines with a specific rhyme scheme and length, and can be written in either a formal or informal style. No matter which type of syair you choose to write, it is sure to be an enjoyable and rewarding experience.
