Langston Hughes

"I've known rivers: I've known rivers ancient as the world and older than the flow of human blood in human veins. My soul has grown deep like the rivers. I bathed in the Euphrates when dawns were young. I built my hut near the Congo and it lulled me to sleep. I looked upon the Nile and raised the pyramids above it. I heard the singing of the Mississippi when Abe Lincoln went down to New Orleans, and I've seen its muddy bosom turn all golden in the sunset. I've known rivers: Ancient, dusky rivers. My soul has grown deep like the rivers."

18 likes

Source: The Negro Speaks of Rivers l. 1 (1921)

About the author

Langston Hughes

Langston Hughes

Poet, Novelist

Langston Hughes was a prominent American poet and social activist known for his impactful works that explore themes of race, identity, and resilience.

All quotes by Langston Hughes →

Same author

More quotes by Langston Hughes

See all →
Langston Hughes Poet, Novelist

"A world I dream where black or white, Whatever race you be, Will share the bounties of the Earth And every man is free."

Read quote
Langston Hughes Poet, Novelist

"I, too, sing America. I am the darker brother. They send me to eat in the kitchen When company comes, But I laugh, And eat well, And grow strong. Tomorrow, I'll be at the table When company comes. Nobody'll dare Say to me, "Eat in the kitchen," Then. Besides, They'll see how beautiful I am And be ashamed-- I, too, am America."

Read quote