Several writers have commented that the form and melody are similar to those of Negro song. Except for the general call and response form of many simple songs, there doesn't seem to be any firm relationship and Negro origin is only a possibility. I don't recall any analysis by a modern musicologist, but I am not familiar with their journals.

The melody is an earworm, sticking in the mind. Perhaps it is like "Ashokan Farewell;" an original composition that reminds us of times past and half-remembered.