Lord, How Come Me Here

Kathleen Battle's rendition of 'Lord, How Come Me Here' is a poignant spiritual that delves deep into the anguish and despair experienced by enslaved African Americans. The repetitive questioning of 'Lord, how come me here?' serves as a powerful lament, expressing a profound sense of bewilderment and sorrow over their forced displacement and suffering. This question is not just a cry for understanding but also a plea for divine intervention and solace in the face of unimaginable hardship.

The lyrics starkly highlight the lack of freedom and the brutal treatment endured by the enslaved individuals. The line 'There ain't no freedom here, Lord' underscores the oppressive conditions and the absence of basic human rights. The repetition of this line emphasizes the inescapable reality of their bondage and the deep yearning for liberation. The song's raw emotion is further amplified by the mention of being treated 'so mean,' which reflects the cruelty and dehumanization faced daily.

One of the most heart-wrenching aspects of the song is the reference to the selling of children, 'They sold my chillen away, Lord.' This line captures the devastating impact of slavery on families, where loved ones were torn apart and sold to different owners, often never to be reunited. The repeated wish of 'I wish I never was born' encapsulates the depth of despair and hopelessness felt by those who were enslaved. Kathleen Battle's soulful performance brings these emotions to the forefront, making 'Lord, How Come Me Here' a powerful reminder of the historical atrocities of slavery and the enduring human spirit's cry for freedom and justice.