Poetry Book Review - Multicultural Poet

The Negro Speaks of Rivers by Langston Hughes

This newly published book of one of Langston Hughes’ early poems features powerful watercolor illustrations by E. B. (Earl Bradley) Lewis and earned starred reviews in Booklist, Publishers Weekly, and School Library Journal. 

Langston Hughes is widely acknowledged to be one of the most influential voices of the Harlem Renaissance. Though he was only 18 years old when he composed this poem, he possessed “the insight to capture in words the courage and spirit of black people in America, and all over the world.” 

The poem is universal and timeless, focusing on the history of black people but reminding all readers of their personal heritage and their own connections to the natural world.

Hughes uses words that are simple, yet they evoke strong emotions. The feeling of the poem is personal, as most of the lines begin with the words “I” or “my soul.”  Hughes uses figurative language to emphasize the similarities between deep soul, deep rivers, and deep roots. He involves all of the senses in the imagery of the poem by using words such as “known”, “bathed”, “built”, “looked”, “heard”, and “seen.”  

Lewis’ illustrations are compelling and inspiring. The soulful images celebrate the river waters which surround, sustain, and eventually become a part of the individuals they touch. The book’s golden cover image eloquently portrays that kinship through the generations.

The design of the book enhances the poem. Each double-page spread pairs a line of poetry with a detailed watercolor composition. The images “celebrate African American strength through the generations, and each picture is both timeless and weighted with history.” (Booklist, November 15, 2008)

The book also includes an illustrator’s note by Mr. Lewis, long an admirer of Langston Hughes’ work. He writes that, inspired by the role of water in his own life, he included a self-portrait in this book in which the river is embracing him.

I believe this book will appeal to a child’s quiet, reflective side. The poem imparts a sense of history that can speak to a child’s desire to understand their place in the world. The picture book format is appropriate for elementary age students and provides them with a wonderful introduction to the poetry of Langston Hughes.

Hughes, Langston. 2009. The Negro Speaks of Rivers. Lewis, E.B., illustrator. 

New York: Jump at the Sun Books (Disney).