The Beijing Hour Bonus Episode: Echoes of the boatman chantey
Mar 3, 2025
Explore the fascinating history of the Yellow River, a once-thriving transportation hub now shaped by modernity. Discover the legacy of boatmen and a renowned songwriter from the village of He Ye Ping. Tune in to hear how locals are harnessing social media to promote tourism while grappling with the challenges of preserving their culture. The contrasting tales of tradition and innovation offer rich insights into community resilience and the beauty of the river.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Echoes of a Boatman's Song
- Li Haifu sings his grandfather's century-old song, "99 Bends on the Yellow River," by the river.
- The song describes the lives of boatmen in the early 20th century.
The Yellow River's Highway
- Li Siming, a boatman for over 40 years, wrote the song based on traditional work chants.
- Shipping on the Yellow River, peaking from 1900-1960, mirrored modern highways.
Navigating the Treacherous River
- Skilled boatmen, or helpsmen, navigated the 700-kilometer Jinshan Grand Canyon.
- A single error could be fatal, highlighting the dangers of the river.