Riverboats go down the Mississippi. A raft with a little boy and an escaped slave go down the Mississippi. What's not to love?

For those of us who grew up elsewhere, the river it has mythical significance that transcends whatever goop people throw in it these days. The first time I ever saw it I drove on a bridge across it, and was so thrilled I had to turn around and drive back and cross it again twice!

In a young country we have to take our pilgrimage sites where we can get 'em. The Mississippi never ceases to thrill me wherever and whenever I have seen it, even from a plane.

Elmer