Note from the Composer:

The lynching of Zachariah Walker in 1911 was very much alive some thirty five years
later. As a student, I well remember several versions of the case. Which story is true is
unimportant. This act, which symbolized for me injustice, was one of a profusion of violent
acts that have been a shameful part of American history. As we try to move from lawlessness
to justice, war to peace, hate to love, let us always consider our heritage and its moral
implications to us and future generations.