"The Song the Owl God Sang" is a collection of 13 Ainu legends compiled by Chiri Yukie in 1922. This work is significant as it represents the first written record of Hokkaido's indigenous Ainu oral traditions by an Ainu author. The collection was later translated into English by Benjamin Peterson.
The Ainu are the indigenous people of Japan, primarily residing in Hokkaido. Their rich oral literature includes various forms of chants and stories, with "The Song the Owl God Sang" being a notable example. This particular song is a type of "kamuy yukar," a chant where a nature god speaks in the first person. In this narrative, the owl god, known as Cikap-kamuy or Kotan-kor-kamuy, serves as the guardian deity of the village. The song reflects the Ainu's deep connection with nature and their spiritual beliefs.
Chiri Yukie's dedication to preserving Ainu culture is evident in her meticulous transcription and translation of these oral tales. Her work has been instrumental in bringing Ainu legends to a broader audience and ensuring their preservation for future generations.
For those interested in exploring these legends further, "The Song the Owl God Sang: The Collected Ainu Legends of Chiri Yukie" is available in English translation.
