God’s Trombones

James Weldon Johnson drew inspiration from the powerful and evocative sermons he heard from Black preachers during his childhood in Jacksonville, Florida. He aimed to capture the unique oral tradition and spiritual depth of these sermons in poetic form, preserving their rhythm and imagery.

God's Trombones has been adapted into various forms, including musical compositions and theatrical performances. Its poetic structure and dramatic content lend themselves well to stage interpretations and vocal arrangements.