Feb 11 • 02:58 UTC 🇱🇻 Latvia LSM

Members of the group 'Iļģi': We are neither folklore nor folks

The members of the Latvian music group 'Iļģi' discuss the meaning behind their name and its relation to themes of death and immortality as explored in a recent documentary film.

In a recent interview, members of the Latvian music group 'Iļģi' engaged in a discussion about their name and its deeper connections to themes explored in the documentary film 'Frankenšteins 2.0', directed by Dāvis Sīmanis. The film delves into the desire for immortality and the cultural significance of death. Henrieta Verhoustinska posed questions about the significance of the name 'Iļģi', noting its associations with the afterlife found in folklore.

Ilga Reizniece responded by exploring the etymological roots of the name, linking it to 'Iļģuciema', a place in Latvia. She highlighted how the term has been interpreted in different contexts, suggesting that it could be derived from the phrase 'Hiligen geest', meaning 'holy spirit' in Lower Saxon, which eventually transformed into 'Iļģuciems'. This discussion illustrates the cultural depth and complexity behind the group's name, pointing to a rich tapestry of influences and meanings.

The members of 'Iļģi' emphasize that they do not fit neatly into the categories of folklore or folk music, which contributes to a dialogue about modern interpretations of traditional themes and figures in Latvian culture. This perspective not only highlights the evolution of cultural practices but also sheds light on how modern artistic expressions continue to reflect and challenge traditional narratives.

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