Miners climb out of the mouth of the earth

 

May 9, 1969  (I was 24)

 

Miners climb out of the mouth of the earth.

They practice earth dentistry, extracting iron teeth.

It’s a messy job at best, and their boots

are blood-stained.  If they keep at it and don’t

get swallowed, they eventually gain recognition.

They have a slick monthly journal, The Hanna Miner.

After twenty years a 1” x 1 1/2” black and white

photograph.  After thirty years a 2” x 3” (wallet size). 

After forty years a 5” x 7” colored

(I suppose you could frame it).

It is however, discouraging to see

how they let their own teeth go,

pictured there next to the superintendent

with his monthly million-dollar smile.