Hughes uses specific rivers – the Euphrates, Congo, Nile, and Mississippi – to represent the history and heritage of African Americans. Each river symbolizes a different aspect:
* The Euphrates: Represents the ancient roots and origins of African people in Mesopotamia.
* The Congo: Represents the tumultuous and brutal history of slavery and oppression in Africa.
* The Nile: Represents the rich cultural heritage and resilience of African civilizations.
* The Mississippi: Represents the ongoing journey of African Americans in the United States, marked by both hardship and hope.
Through the river analogy, Hughes conveys the enduring strength, deep history, and enduring spirit of Black people. He highlights the connection to their African heritage and the challenges and triumphs they have faced throughout their journey. The rivers flow on, just as Black people continue to persevere, carrying their history with them.