The Blue Hue of the Yi River

The Blue Hue of the Yi River

In the upper reaches of the Yi River, there were originally no reservoirs, so the river was deep and fast-flowing. According to *Yishui Talks on Mulberry and Hemp* by Wu Shusheng, the magistrate of Yishui County during the Xianfeng era: “In summer, when water levels are moderate, grain boats weighing hundreds of stones could sail directly into the canal.” Boats could travel upstream as far as Donglidian and Nanma. This shows that the appearance of the Yi River back then was quite different from what it is today. Therefore, on clear days, the azure sky is reflected in the clear waters of the Yi River, and when viewed from Donggao Mountain to the west, it looks like a long piece of blue cloth trailing along the river—hence the name “The Blue Hue of the Yi River.” A poem testifies to this:

The Blue Hue of the Yi River

Yang Guangpu

Beneath Diaoya Mountain lies its source,

Flowing south for a hundred li before bearing boats.

Moonlight flickers like nights on the Xiang River,

And the sound of the stream evokes autumn on the Chu.

Tributaries join at distant shores, colors alike,

While waves crash against the endless sky.

Just after the Spring Purification Festival in late spring,

One roams freely in the wind at the Yu altar.

The Blue Hue of the Yi River

Shu Xiang

A sash of blue trails light ripples,

As Hundred Springs River gradually fills the channel.

Snow melts in Meng Valley, dark marshes lengthen,

Rain falls on Benting fields, green waves abound.

Green trees hug the cold rain along the dike,

Green mist veils the banks near cold grass.