Jeffery Taylor, author of "Vessel of Last Resort," describes his voyage up the Congo River on a primitive barge. He expresses his repugnance over the appalling conditions of the country through his descriptions of its sanitation, traveling standards, and disrespect for its people. His essay is intended to enlighten the reader about the destitution of Zaire and other similar African nations.

One area of deprivation that Taylor faces is the country's lack of sanitation. He describes in vivid detail the total disregard for the cleanliness of the city. Smells alone are enough to nauseate a traveler. From the time he boards the barge, Taylor confronts a wave of permeating stench from the "urine-stained deck" he is standing on. In an effort to maintain his personal hygiene, Taylor is given the privilege of an actual bath to wash away the repulsive odor. However, he is quickly disappointed when he...