The Kiss of Death

If I were a mountain climber, I’d always take the time To check out superstitious lore When choosing where to climb. For recently an avalanche Took several climbers’ lives. I’m sure they left some grieving friends And parents, children, wives. This avalanche occurred in France. Mont Blanc’s the mountain range; But here’s the part that is, to me, More obvious than strange. The northern face of Mont Maudit Is where the slide began. The meaning of that name was not A factor in their plan. Or possibly, those mountaineers Thought there was some mystique To conquering a mountain That’s defined as “cursed peak.” With dangers in a sport like this, I know I’d be averse To setting out upon a peak That’s burdened with a curse. They thumbed their noses at the gods Which is the kiss of death. I wonder if they realized that As they took their last breath.