Burial Chambers

I.

Encased in glass beside a clean white wall,
he stands—and watches grazing tourists pass
with vacant roaming eyes. They rarely pause—
shuffling toward more exhibits down the hall.

II.

Crushed in the tomb, but lifted out with wax.
Our scholars grasped for meaning in his glory.
Named Ram in the Thicket, after a Bible story.
He speaks—but only answers what you ask.

III.

Observe the artistry—so clearly prized:
Carved lapis lazuli for his horns and hide.
His body fleeced with shell. His underside—
bright silver, once—now darkly oxidized.

IV.

Cloud the glass around him with your breath.
His was the earliest man-made world to end
and leave a language. Study what it meant—
Learn how to hear the human heart of death.