–Mao Zedong, July 1, 1959 A peak thrusts up by the Great River’s side,We climb four hundred bends through green and wide.Cool eyes gaze out across the ocean’s tide,Warm winds bear rain o’er river skies abide.
– Mao Zedong · Spring 1927 Nine great streams flow vast through central land,A long thread of rail runs deep through south and north.Mist and rain blend into boundless gray,Tortoise and Snake hold the great river tight.