I truly appreciate the subtle blend of humor and sorrow in this piece. Embracing the sheer absurdity of the 'machinery of death'—ranging from the Plaster of Paris makeup to a neighbor named Dave dropping by just for the best sandwiches—beautifully captures how we navigate life today. The closing moment, with Uncle Paul calling out 'Elle,' offers a heartfelt and comforting ending. I hope someone brightened the lighting for him to make it even more special.
The line about tending the graves being easier than knowing what to do for the living is the one that got me. That's exactly it. The dead give you a task you can finish. With the living you never get that clean an ending. That was beautiful. I'm writing a novel that explores a lot of this. Subscribing here.
Thank you, John. That’s exactly what I meant. The dead give you something finite to do. The living are where everything stays messy and unfinished. I really appreciate you reading, and I’m glad the piece found you. Good luck with the novel. It sounds like we’re working through some of the same ghosts.
The line about being five stones away really stayed with me. Such a beautiful and honest reflection. Thank you for sharing it.
Thanks for sharing this. From Uncle Paul's greatest fan (that he didn't get to meet)!
What a heartfelt tribute. Wishing you and your family peace.
families and funerals are a topic i'm forever fascinated with. i can relate to a lot of your thoughts.
really beautifully written <3
thank you so much! I'm glad you could relate!
I truly appreciate the subtle blend of humor and sorrow in this piece. Embracing the sheer absurdity of the 'machinery of death'—ranging from the Plaster of Paris makeup to a neighbor named Dave dropping by just for the best sandwiches—beautifully captures how we navigate life today. The closing moment, with Uncle Paul calling out 'Elle,' offers a heartfelt and comforting ending. I hope someone brightened the lighting for him to make it even more special.
Beautifully written. 🫂💚
thank you so much for reading!
Absolutely beautiful
ty so much for reading 💙
The line about tending the graves being easier than knowing what to do for the living is the one that got me. That's exactly it. The dead give you a task you can finish. With the living you never get that clean an ending. That was beautiful. I'm writing a novel that explores a lot of this. Subscribing here.
Thank you, John. That’s exactly what I meant. The dead give you something finite to do. The living are where everything stays messy and unfinished. I really appreciate you reading, and I’m glad the piece found you. Good luck with the novel. It sounds like we’re working through some of the same ghosts.
lol dad sure knows how to give great gifts 🎁 😄