What type of musical narrative is often conveyed through the use of call-and-response in African American spirituals?

The use of call-and-response in African American spirituals is a powerful element that reflects religious themes prevalent in the community during the time of their creation. These spirituals often served as a means of expressing deep faith, hope, and resilience in the face of hardship, as well as connecting with and conveying messages of spiritual yearning and liberation. The structure of call-and-response allows for a communal experience, where individuals participate actively in the expression of their beliefs and emotions. This dynamic interaction reinforces the spiritual nature of the music, making it a strong vehicle for the exploration and sharing of religious themes, particularly within the context of Christian faith.

In contrast, secular themes would focus more on non-religious subjects, romantic themes would center around love and relationships, and historical themes would emphasize events from the past. While there may be overlaps in content and context, the primary focus of the spirituals rooted in call-and-response lies in their religious significance.