Hidden within the heart of Harlem, the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture houses a poignant memorial to the legendary Langston Hughes. The “Rivers” cosmogram, a mesmerizing artwork inspired by Hughes’ iconic poem, “The Negro Speaks of Rivers,” takes us on a breathtaking journey through time and space. As we delve deeper into this captivating piece, we’ll uncover the profound connections between ancient civilizations, the African diaspora, and the enduring spirit of Black culture.
Picture this: The escalators in your local subway station suddenly reverse direction, carrying people up instead of down. It would be a strange and unexpected sight, causing a momentary disruption to your routine. Something similar can happen in nature: rivers can occasionally reverse their flow, creating a phenomenon as unexpected and intriguing as a backwards escalator.
U.S. state seals serve as official emblems, symbolizing the unique identity and heritage of each region. They are typically designed to represent the state’s history, natural resources, important figures, or significant events. Rivers, as a vital part of many states’ identities and histories, are often prominently featured on state seals.
The rhythmic flow of a river symbolizes the transformation of barley into whiskey. This connection between the spirit, the land, and the water has inspired many distilleries to name themselves after nearby rivers.
