Rheagan Humphrey - Theme of Deliverance in African American Literature lyrics

This timeline focuses on the theme of Deliverance found throughout African American literature from 1700-1900. Though the progression of the dates that the poems were published continues in chronological order, this timeline can also be seen as a circle. As will be noticed after looking through the timeline, it begins with a hymn and ends with a hymn. This was done on purpose to show the progression in mindset from slavery to 1900. Along with each excerpt is an event of note that occurred within the same year or around that time. 1700 – From spiritual “Didn't My Lord Deliver Daniel?!” He delivered Daniel from de lion's den, Jonah from de belly of de whale. And de Hebrew children from de fiery furnace, An' why not everyman? 1760 – From “An Evening Thought” by Jupiter Hammon Come Blessed Jesus, Heavenly Dove, Accept Repentance here; Salvation give, with tender Love; Let us with Angels share. 1773 – From “On Being Brought from Africa to America” by Phillis Wheatley Remember, Christians, Negros, black as Cain, May be refin'd, and join th' angelic train. 1829 – From “The Lover's Farewell” by George Moses Horton And wilt thou, love, command my soul, And waft me with a light controul? – Adieu to all the blooms of May, Farewell – I fly with love away! 1853 – From “Ethiopia” by Frances E. W. Harper Yes! Ethiopia yet shall stretch Her bleeding hands abroad; Her cry of agony shall reach The burning throne of God. 1856 – From “A Parting Hymn” by Charlotte Forten Grimké May all who suffer share their love – The poor and the oppressed; So shall the blessing of our God Upon their labors rest. And may we meet again where all Are blest and freed from every thrall. 1895 – From “We Wear the Mask” by Paul Laurence Dunbar We smile, but, O great Christ, our cries To thee from tortured souls arise. We sing, but oh they clay is vile Beneath our feet, and long the mile; But let the world dream otherwise, We wear the mask! 1900 – From “Lift Every Voice and Sing” by James Weldon Johnson Thou who hast brought us thus far on the way; Thou who hast by Thy might, Led us into the light, Keep us forever in the path, we pray.