Lift Ev'Ry Voice and Sing
The work is a powerful anthem that celebrates resilience, hope, and the struggle for freedom. It begins with a call to uplift voices in unison, symbolizing unity and the pursuit of liberty. The imagery evokes a sense of joy and determination, encouraging a collective expression of faith and hope derived from a painful past. The poem reflects on the historical journey of a marginalized community, acknowledging the hardships endured and the sacrifices made. It emphasizes the importance of remembering the struggles faced, while also looking forward to a brighter future. The references to a "dark past" and "weary feet" highlight the long and arduous path toward justice and equality. As the narrative progresses, it invokes a spiritual connection, appealing to a higher power for guidance and strength. The plea for divine support underscores the belief that faith is essential in overcoming adversity. The work culminates in a reaffirmation of loyalty to both God and homeland, reinforcing the idea that true freedom is intertwined with spiritual and national identity. Overall, the piece serves as both a historical reflection and a motivational call to action, urging perseverance in the face of challenges and a commitment to the ongoing fight for justice and equality.
By James Weldon Johnson · First published 1900 · Genre: Poetry, Spiritual, African American Literature · 331 words
First lines
Lift ev'ry voice and sing Till earth and heaven ring.
Ring with the harmonies of Liberty;
What this Textopian page supports
Lift Ev'Ry Voice and Sing is listed on Textopian as a poem by James Weldon Johnson, dated 1900 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: James Weldon Johnson
- Date: 1900 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Spiritual, African American Literature, Inspirational, Historical
- Length: 331 words
- Structure: 1 section, 14 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is a poem that employs lyrical language and structure to convey its themes.
- Spiritual — The poem reflects themes of faith, hope, and divine guidance, characteristic of spiritual literature.
- African American Literature — The poem addresses the historical struggles and triumphs of African Americans, making it a significant work in this genre.
- Inspirational — The poem serves to inspire and uplift, promoting resilience and hope in the face of adversity.
Tags
Poetry Collection · African American Literature · National Anthem · Racial Equality · Social Justice · Civil Rights Movement · American History · Freedom Song · Spirituals · Musical Composition · Lyrics · Patriotism