All light escapes as the last nail settles into place. I. I feel a board half of a foot In front of my face, But the echoes of my breathing Sound distant as they bounce around this box. Foolish to attempt escape. Currently, a sniper stands Six feet above me, Ready to trade A last look For one between the eyes. I could feel the weight Of this soil blanket Long before I was tucked in. Helpless now, I settle for sleep And dream only of waking up. II. The worms are whispering As I finally awake. They tell me the end is near, That I should return to sleep Where everything will be painless. Wanting more than anything To feel something, I hold my eyelids open, Apologize to my companions For not following advice And brace myself. III. I feel like a feather As I hear a knock. Come in, I cry, But this door is locked tight. We hold hands through Three inches of cedar; I'll push, you pull. The first nail budges, The rest follow suit... The freshest air Is saved for the free man, But before I enjoy a breath, I kiss her smiling lips And find myself in her eyes. When my tears hit the ground, I was thanking the Earth.