North Cape, on an Anniversary

From The Spectator, 22 May, 1993

North Cape, on an Anniversary
by Alan Ross

The ship reflected in their eyes,
Pink-rimmed and bloodshot as they row
To safety, it is not smoke that dries
On their cheeks but tears: a score
Of survivors unable to look back.
Screws rotate in air and, nose first,
Helpless against the Arctic thirst,
She plunges, churned waters suddenly slack.