A powerful reflection on contemplation and individual resolve, "The Journey" blends together two voices, as poet Evelyn Dudley's Southern tenacity and hardy faith are coupled with composer Elizabeth Alexander's Appalachian roots and clear musical vision. The lyric's determined refrain, "I'll go alone if I have to," speaks to the loneliness and difficulty of the less traveled road.
Prominent solos are featured in all voice parts; ensembles may either choose to feature 3-4 singers, or to distribute the solos among a dozen or more soloists.