Name:________________________

Date: ___________________

African American Spirituals: Deep River

Lyrics

Deep River, My home is over Jordan. Deep River, Lord. I want to cross over into campground.

Deep River. my home is over Jordan. River, Lord, I want to cross over into campground.

Oh, don't you want to go, To the Gospel feast; That Promised Land, Where all is peace?

Oh, deep River, Lord, I want to cross over into campground.

Directions: Read the lyrics to the African American Spiritual song “Deep River” above and answer the corresponding questions.

1. What story do you think the lyrics of this spiritual are trying to convey?

2. Where is the actual River Jordan and what is its significance in the song?

3. The reference to the River Jordan is a metaphor. What do you think it is a metaphor for?

4. What is on the other side of the River Jordan in the song? Do you think this is another metaphor? If so, what is it a metaphor for?

5. Do you think this Spiritual conveys a positive or negative message? What emotions do

you think are conveyed in this song?