The songs are indeed the siftings of centuries; the music is far more ancient than the words, and in it we can trace here and there signs of development.
W.E.B. Du Bois: “The songs are indeed the siftings of centuries; the music is far more ancient than the words, and in it we can trace…”
Editor's note · Context
Du Bois reflects on the ancient origins and historical layering evident in the music of the spirituals.
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