Island life, human fate

QTO - Amidst the vast, deep blue ocean, the three small islands of Hon La, Hon Co, and Yen Island (Phu Trach commune) appear like three precious gems, lovingly nurtured by the sea's care. There, the symphony of waves crashing against rocks, winds rustling through the sim trees, and the pungent salty scent permeate every calloused hand and linger in every life story. There, countless people have entrusted their youth, and throughout their lives, remained loyal and devoted to the sea.

Hon La Island - Photo: DH

1. Hon La Island is located near the shore. On this island, the national flag stands tall, its vibrant red color glistening in the morning sun, proudly fluttering against the deep blue sky. Fishermen affectionately call it the "heart" of the island, because whenever they return from the open sea, amidst the vast, turbulent waves, seeing the flag brings back the warmth of home, of their beloved motherland.

Nowadays, reaching Hon La no longer requires navigating rough wooden boats against the waves and wind. The sea dike connecting Hon La with Hon Co is over 300 meters long, 9 meters wide, and solidly constructed from massive boulders, covered with wave-resistant concrete weighing several tens of tons.

Completed at the end of 2015, the dike serves as a bridge connecting the two islands, opening up the dream of a deep-water port welcoming giant ships venturing out to the open sea. For fishermen, it is like a soft "silk ribbon," linking a hard past with a bright future, connecting long voyages with peaceful harbors.

The people in the fishing villages at the foot of the Ngang Pass all know the rhythm of the tides by heart. At dawn, when the mist still hangs vaguely over the sea, they diligently pull in their nets. In the evening, the nets are heavy with fish, and their eyes light up with joy under the shadow of the flagpole.

On Hon La Island, where winds blow year-round, the soldiers' footsteps remain steadfast through countless storms. After each voyage, the people of this coastal region find peace in their hearts, as if they have a reliable shoulder to lean on amidst the vast ocean waves.

2. From Hon La, following the windy dike leads to Hon Co, a small island covered in a mix of vibrant green and sun-scorched yellow grass. Rocky outcrops jut out into the sea like open hands, embracing and caressing the white-crested waves. The most beautiful time here is at sunrise, when the entire landscape is bathed in golden light.

The lighthouse, standing tall on Hon Co Island, is about to become operational. In the future, its steadfast light will guide ships tirelessly back to shore. For every fisherman who spends their life amidst the turbulent waves, seeing the lighthouse's light is like hearing the call of the mainland, of peace after days at sea.

The stunning rocky shores of Hon Co Island have become an ideal spot for tourists to take photos and camp. At the foot of the lighthouse, several groups of young people pitched tents for the night, waking up early to watch the vibrant pink sunrise rising from the distant Yen Island. They climbed onto the rocky outcrops, felt the wind, and immersed themselves in the peaceful yet vast expanse of the sky, land, and blue sea.

Each season when the sim flowers bloom, Hon Co Island is draped in a gentle purple cloak. The tiny, delicate clusters of flowers, resilient against the sea breeze, are like the people of this coastal region—despite the harsh conditions, they remain strong and silently strive forward. When the fruit season arrives, the branches are laden with fruit, and children pick them, filling their clothes with them. Running barefoot on the ground, they bite into the fruit, savoring the sweet taste with a hint of tartness on their tongues.

3. Unlike Hon La and Hon Co, exploring Yen Island requires a boat trip, braving the waves and wind. The journey takes over 20 minutes, but it's a time to feel the sea breeze on your face, the salty taste on your lips, and your eyes opened to the endless blue sea.

Our guide was just turning 40, with sun-tanned skin and a distinctive coastal accent. He said he grew up with the rhythm of the waves and the salty taste of the sea. So when he talked about the sea, his voice was warm and soothing, like he was talking about a loved one.

He knew exactly which seasons the sea was calm and which were turbulent, where the dangerous undertows were, and where the nets were full of fish and shrimp. Loving the sea and this pristine island, he chose to anchor close to the island, raise fish, and improve his livelihood . His love for the island grew naturally, like breathing.

Nestled at the foot of the majestic Hoành Sơn mountain range, Yến Island covers an area of ​​approximately 3 square kilometers, surrounded on all sides by towering cliffs and crystal-clear blue waters. It is home to the tomb of the renowned general Trần Đạt from the Trần dynasty. The tomb lies beside a pristine freshwater well, a precious source of water. The well never runs dry, just as the people of the sea never lose their love for the island.

Hundreds of swallows perch on the steep cliffs. In the early morning, the chirping of the swallows blends with the gentle lapping of the waves, creating an endless symphony of the sea. The most delightful feeling is climbing to the highest point, sitting quietly on the rocky outcrop, watching the flock of swallows soaring, and experiencing the pristine yet strangely sacred atmosphere of this place.

4. People from the former Guangdong region love the sea in a patient and persistent way. There are elderly men who have never traveled far from this sea area in their entire lives, only staying around the small islands in Hon La Bay. There are others who spend their old age diligently climbing the lighthouse on Hon Co Island, carefully tending to each window and each access point.

There are also those who tirelessly embark on each voyage out to sea, never once considering abandoning the sea or their homeland, even when faced with storms that threaten to overwhelm them. During some seasons of fierce storms, with waves crashing violently against the shore, boats must anchor. Therefore, for the people of this coastal region, Hon Co-Hon La is like a "nest" to anchor and shelter their boats during difficult sea seasons.

These three islands are three jewels in the sea. They are also the lifeblood, memories, and future of the people of this coastal village. Every path leading to the islands is steeped in salty sweat, marked by radiant smiles and the losses the sea has inflicted on generations. They are three sacred gems, connecting the destinies of these people to the vast ocean.

Dieu Huong

Source: https://baoquangtri.vn/dat-va-nguoi-quang-tri/202508/doi-dao-phan-nguoi-6c75f2e/