In these pits fell and drear, where hearts do nought but fear
The snapping of the lash, all around is smoke and ash
Belching bilious smoke black, with swollen stinging back
Waking to the wailing, sleeping with the ceaseless sighing
Mercy cries and no man hears, as endlessly doom leers
In these grinding halls grim, where morn and eve are ever dim
Flight is futile, foolishness. Hope gives way to gaping hopelessness
Clink of chain on cavern floor, shrieking wails at every door
The whip’s cruel crack, tears again my broken back
The ceaseless crunch of feet, hateful stifling heat
Night and day incessant go, in dark dungeons far below
Wake to wearisome work, punishment for all who shirk
Inky poison in the skies, til all upon the earth shall die.
