the syan encyclopedia
a ryda-di-o'nolis di-syana

← Return to dictionary

Roa

(roa)

In Syana, traditional culture and Syan history are viewed as very important aspects of society and are seen as invaluable by both the government and many Syan citizens. The adjective di-roa is used in Syan to mean traditional as well as something that is inherently Syan. Its use is semantically different from di-roadaa (old-fashioned) since roa is seen as a trait worthy of highlighting and celebreating, whereas di-roadaa can also mean out of date or unnecessary, making it negative.


The concept of tradition as a pillar of Syan culture was first popularised by Doraala Janaa during the 100th jaar-daala di-olarina, which is an annual speech given by the Jaar on the anniversary of Syan independence. In this speech Doraala Janaa stated that:

"Roa ki a omaani a omaani-di-o'akaado di-o'aad ki-ni lolodis-ni raa."

This translates to: "tradition is the land our country was built on". The message of the now historic speech was that Syan pride should be focused on what uniquely belongs to Syana, which was in reference to the ancient culture and traditions that existed on the islands.


Over the years, the concept of traditionality eventually encompassed anything that was unique to Syana or distinctive of Syan culture. However, the belief that tradition is to be valued above all other aspects of society is far less common in the 21st century. Whilst tradition and traditionality are still key elements of Syan culture, many Syan people view tradition as something that should celebrated in conjunction with progress instead of in opposition to eachother.