Withered Tombs

Within the earth
A natural crypt
A confined cavern
Claustrophobic passageways

Sheathed in ice and snow
Where flowers cannot grow
No air, no light
A withered tomb

Light from lanterns
Illuminate glacial walls
The charge is set
Imminent mine collapse

A forlorn gasp
In endless fog
The tomb is sealed
By frigid stone
Excessive pressure
Tremendous weight
Buried beneath
Time and dust

Light of day
Forever obscured
Preserved remains
Fossilized in ice