SIGN

SIGN is a folklore genre, a saying that appeared as a result of long observations of natural phenomena, plant properties, animals, bird and insect behavior, which react to the change of weather in a particular way. In ancient times S. were an unwritten set of meteorological knowledge. The structure of S. is similar to the structure of a proverb but it’s main function is to satisfy practical needs of everyday life, not to show eloquence or teach wisdom: “If a dog is rolling on the ground, the rain will start” (Bashk.), “If a crow is bathing in the yard – wait for misfortune” (Rus.), “If the rooks are gathering in flocks and crying, the rain will start” (Udm.), “If the sunset is red, the next day will be windy” (Ukr.), etc. It exists in folklore of many peoples.

F.A. Nadrshina