"Dark As A Dungeon" is not a John Mellencamp song. It is actually a song written by folk musician Merle Travis in the 1940s. John Mellencamp is known for covering this song along with other traditional folk tunes. The song "Dark As A Dungeon" explores the harsh realities of working in the coal mines. It portrays the dangers and hardships faced by miners who spend their lives underground. The lyrics emphasize the physical and emotional toll mining takes on these individuals. The song warns young individuals against seeking their fortune in the mines, as it will consume them like a habit and darken their souls. The miner's life is depicted as a never-ending struggle, where the rain never falls and the sun never shines. Throughout the song, the dark and damp environment of the mines is contrasted with the limited pleasures of the miners' lives. It highlights the monotony and relentless nature of their labor, where time of day and personal desires have no significance. The dangers of mining are also emphasized, with the demons of death lurking and accidents often happening unexpectedly. The mention of the slate falling and burying miners alive serves as a reminder of the constant threat they face underground. The song concludes with a somber reflection on mortality. The narrator expresses a hope that in death, their body will turn into coal. They anticipate looking from the afterlife and feeling pity for the miners who are still digging their bones. "Dark As A Dungeon" serves as a haunting portrayal of the hardships faced by coal miners and the toll it takes on their lives. It sheds light on the dangerous and oppressive conditions they endure, ultimately reflecting on the human cost of mining.
