the lesser three gorges

bright green jade waters

running fast towards the Yangtze,

sampan crews skilled in navigating

the shallow green tributary

one time running aground

we almost spin completely around.

caves in mountain sides

and unexplored valleys

rise up to heavens

paying homage to this sacred river.

white water rapids

part of some resident’s daily commute.

an army of laborers cutting

down brush and trees below

the projected new waterline.

further downstream we finally

gaze upwards at the hanging coffins

jutting out from shear

cliff faces and seemingly inaccessible.

we are within the eyes

of the mountains

that reach out towards the sky.

Picture by Dochong 2003 on the Lesser Three Gorges