Yep. It’s macabre, I know.
I was inspired to post this after listening to this essay on my NPR Station 90.3 WCPN. Happy to know that I’m not alone in my fascination.
“Short Stories to Die For: The Art of the ‘Obituaries'” by Tom Rachman.
About 10 years ago I discovered the New York Times online, and got completely hooked on the obit page. It’s not like the small “classified” style notes in your average paper. These are beautifully written stories. Some people there are local New Yorkers who accomplished, participated in something, or just plain were extraordinary. Obviously celebrities are listed, but so are politicians, scientists, philanthropists, adventurers, artists, eccentrics, and sometimes people you have NEVER heard of who:
- invented a tool we can’t imagine flying without.
- whose story of a few incredible hours of his life gives us a deeply personal glimpse into the heads and hearts of soldiers in a major WWII operation…one you would not hear in your average history class.
- just plain loved their jobs, and did them well, and did them with flair.
I’ve learned so much about history, the arts, sports, anthropology, archeology, psychology, chemistry, physics, and human nature. I’ve felt inspired, frustrated, proud, sad, and just a little smarter. By reading these stories, learning from them, and passing them along, am I participating in the process of the “afterlife”? Hmmmm…
xo
en