What is one refrain in “The Negro Speaks of Rivers”? a. “ancient as the world and older than the flow” b. “I built my hut near the Congo and it lulled me to sleep.” c. “I’ve known rivers.” d. “Ancient, dusky rivers.”
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is c. “I’ve known rivers.”
In Langston Hughes’s poem “The Negro Speaks of Rivers,” the refrain “I’ve known rivers” serves as a powerful and resonant anchor throughout the piece. This line encapsulates the speaker’s deep connection to rivers, which symbolize not only the physical landscapes of Africa and America but also the historical and emotional experiences of African Americans.
Hughes opens the poem with this refrain, establishing a rhythmic and meditative quality that invites readers to reflect on the significance of rivers in the context of African American history. Each time the line recurs, it deepens the exploration of the speaker’s personal and collective past. The rivers mentioned in the poem—such as the Euphrates, the Congo, and the Mississippi—are more than mere geographical features; they represent the flow of time, memory, and legacy. These rivers have witnessed the rise and fall of civilizations, the struggles of people, and the resilience of the human spirit.
By using this refrain, Hughes emphasizes continuity and endurance, suggesting that the experiences of African Americans are intertwined with the very essence of these ancient rivers. The repetition of “I’ve known rivers” creates a sense of universality, connecting the speaker’s personal history to the broader narrative of African American heritage. The refrain also evokes a sense of pride and strength, as it highlights the richness of the cultural and historical tapestry that defines the African American experience.
Ultimately, the refrain reinforces the poem’s themes of identity, history, and the enduring nature of the human spirit, illustrating how the rivers serve as witnesses to the struggles and triumphs of a people throughout time.