The Maurice River is fed by drainage from the famous New Jersey Pine Barrens, is dammed to create Union Lake in Millville, and then ambles southward, gaining in size, to empty into the marshes of the Delaware Bay. Of its 50 miles, the lowest 10 are a navigable waterway. Somers was inspired to compose these six pieces, which depict both the small town life of South Jersey and the natural wonders of the river's variety.