Chuanjiang Boatmen’s Song in Chongqing

◎重庆市第十八中学校初2023 级31 班 李灵彧 指导教师：黄忠雪

川江号子是起源于四川、重庆一带的传统音乐，是国家级非物质文化遗产。川江号子是船工们统一动作和节奏，由号工领唱，众船工帮腔、合唱的一种一领众和式的民间歌唱形式，是船工们与险滩恶水搏斗时用热血和汗水凝铸而成的生命之歌。在重庆武隆，我们仍可聆听到这几近消逝的歌声。

If one day you come to Wulong, Chongqing, you can’t miss the great sight and enjoy the powerful song—Chuanjiang Boatmen’s Song, one of the national intangible cultural heritage.It is a traditional folk song about the life and work of the boatmen on the Yangtze River.It also reflects the history, culture, and changes of Chongqing.

The song started in the late 19th century when Chongqing was an important trading port along the Yangtze River.The boatmen played an important role in transporting goods between Chongqing and other cities.The song describes the hardships and struggles of the boatmen.They walked barefoot( 赤 脚) on the riverbank with their backs bending for long hours to pull the boats.They worked under challenging conditions(条件).

The lyrics of the song focused on the boatmen’s determination(决心), love for their hometown, and longing for their families.The melody( 旋律) was simple yet powerful.The song became an anthem(赞歌) for the boatmen and a symbol of their unity and hard work.

Today although the busy trading port has disappeared, the song continues to be valued by locals and serves as a reminder of the city’s rich history.It is often performed during festivals and cultural events.The lyrics has changed to reflect the rapid development of the city, the spirit of its people, and their hopes for a better future.The melody suits modern tastes while keeping its traditional essence(精髓).

I am proud that Chuanjiang Boatmen’s Song was protected as national intangible cultural heritage(国家级非物质文化遗产) on May 20, 2006.