The article provides an in-depth look at the life of prisoners serving life sentences in Russia's maximum-security prisons, known colloquially by names such as 'The White Swan' and 'The Black Eagle'. It discusses the moratorium on executions in Russia and the shift to life imprisonment for serious crimes. The author visits 'The Black Eagle' and interviews various inmates, including murderers and a terrorist, exploring their daily lives, feelings of guilt, and the role of religion and art in their rehabilitation. The piece also touches on the broader issues of the Russian penal system, including the legacy of the Soviet era, the necessity of prison labor, and the challenges faced by prisoners upon release. The article is a blend of interviews, observations, and reflections on the human condition within the penal system.