Books matching: exploration of death
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"In the Slender Margin: The Intimate Strangeness of Dying" by Eve Joseph is a moving and thought-provoking exploration of death and dying. The author shares her personal journey of loss and death, drawing from her years of hospice work and reflections on the death of her brother. Through a mix of personal experiences and research on different cultures' perspectives on death, Joseph weaves a narrative that is both intimate and insightful. The writing style is poetic, with references to historical, artistic, and literary elements that add depth to the exploration of this difficult subject.
I had just turned twelve when my brother was killed in a car accident. In 1965, the year Allen Ginsberg coined the term flower power and Malcolm X was shot dead inside Harlem’s Audubon Ballroom, the y...In the short story "A Shining" by Jon Fosse, a man embarks on a journey with no destination in mind, driving aimlessly until his car gets stuck in a forest road. He then ventures into the forest seeking help, encountering dreamlike sequences and a shining presence that guides him. The narrative unfolds in a stream of consciousness style, exploring themes of life, death, faith, and the human experience. The story is a metaphor for death, with the protagonist eventually finding himself in the presence of his deceased parents and a shining figure, navigating the cold and snowy forest in a contemplative and introspective manner.
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Save:'There Once Lived a Woman Who Tried to Kill Her Neighbor's Baby: Scary Fairy Tales' by Ludmilla Petrushevskaya is a collection of dark and macabre short stories with surprising twists that delve into the gritty and bleak aspects of Russian life during the Cold War period. The stories are described as having a fairy tale format, with some being more captivating than others. The author's writing style is noted for its quirky and catchy storytelling, often leaving readers with a sense of horror and discomfort, similar to the eerie twists found in episodes of The Twilight Zone.
The book is a mix of fables, horror, and suspense that provide a unique insight into the Soviet psyche, drawing on the author's experiences growing up in post-WWII Soviet Union. The translation of the stories into English is mentioned as a factor that may impact the original edge and beauty of the tales, but the collection is still considered solid and well worth a read for those interested in dark and twisted narratives.
DURING THE WAR, A COLONEL RECEIVED A LETTER FROM HIS wife. She misses him very much, it said, and won’t he come visit because she’s worried she’ll die without having seen him. The colonel applied for ... - #4
Save:'Death Sentence' by Maurice Blanchot is a haunting and intense exploration of death, love, and the impossibility of fidelity. The narrative follows an unnamed man's relationships with dying women, particularly J, and his experiences during the early days of WWII in Paris. The writing style is described as abstract, deep, and surreal, with a focus on introspection and the limitations of language in conveying experiences.
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Save:Under the Whispering Door by T.J. Klune is a heartwarming and emotional story that explores the themes of life, death, grief, and acceptance. The book follows Wallace, a workaholic lawyer who unexpectedly dies and finds himself in a tea shop in the afterlife, guided by Meiying and Hugo. Through interactions with the residents of the tea shop and the reapers, Wallace undergoes a journey of self-discovery and redemption, learning the true meaning of life and love even after death. The writing style is described as tender, insightful, and kind, offering a unique perspective on death and the afterlife with a touch of humor and whimsy.
“How could I not?” he said. He folded his hands on his oak desk, his Arper Aston chair squeaking as he settled in for what he was sure was going to be a case of unfortunate histrionics, all while tryi... Stiff: The Curious Lives of Human Cadavers by Mary Roach is an exploration into the history and uses of human cadavers, delving into emblematic activities like cremation and research. The author takes readers on a journey through the world of cadavers, from cosmetic surgery to embalming, addressing questions about what happens to bodies after death with a blend of hard science and humor. Roach's writing style is described as quirky, humorous, and respectful, providing a balance between factual information and entertainment value while discussing various options for the body after death.
The way I see it, being dead is not terribly far off from being on a cruise ship. Most of your time is spent lying on your back. The brain has shut down. The flesh begins to soften. Nothing much new h...- #7
Save:'All the Living and the Dead' by Hayley Campbell is an exploration of various occupations related to death, shedding light on the people who have made death their life's work. The book delves into different perspectives and experiences surrounding death, presenting a mix of informative insights and personal reflections from the author's investigations. Campbell's writing style is described as professional yet personal, offering a unique blend of curiosity and sensitivity towards the subject matter.
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Save:'Being Dead' by Jim Crace is a unique and unconventional novel that delves into the lives and deaths of an elderly couple who are brutally murdered after a picnic at the beach. The author intricately weaves scientific descriptions of decomposition with the couple's past, including their strained relationship with their daughter. The narrative shifts back and forth in time, exploring the couple's meeting, their marriage, and the grim reality of their bodies decaying on the beach.
The book is characterized by a blend of science and storytelling, offering detailed accounts of physical decay and the natural world's reaction to death. While some readers find the story bleak and the characters unlikable, others appreciate the author's unsentimental approach to death and the unique perspective he brings to the subject matter. Overall, 'Being Dead' is described as a thought-provoking and haunting exploration of life, death, and the inevitable decay that follows.
For old times’ sake, the doctors of zoology had driven out of town that Tuesday afternoon to make a final visit to the singing salt dunes at Baritone Bay. And to lay a ghost. They never made it back a... - #9
Save:"Duck, Death and the Tulip" by Wolf Erlbruch is a stunning and unique children's book that approaches the topic of death in a gentle and non-religious manner. It personifies death as a character, wearing a housecoat and slippers, leading the reader through a conversation on the nature of death as a fact of life. The illustrations are described as amazing, and Duck's expressions are impressively expressive, making it a poignant and emotional read for both children and adults.
"Duck, Death and the Tulip" is praised for its beautiful and deep story, magnificent images, and emotional impact. It offers a delicate way to start conversations about death with children, presenting it as something that eventually happens without being scary. is recommended for children aged around 8, as it helps them understand death as an unavoidable event, sparking meaningful discussions and reflections on life and loss.
- #10
Save:In 'Reaper Man' by Terry Pratchett, Death finds himself out of a job when the auditors of reality decide he has developed too much of a personality. As a result, Death becomes mortal and must experience life among humans until the new Death arrives. With the Discworld temporarily without a Death, chaos ensues as things cannot die properly and excess life force accumulates, leading to strange occurrences like inanimate objects coming to life. The book humorously explores Death's journey of living in the real world and facing the consequences of his forced retirement.
The plot of 'Reaper Man' follows Death adjusting to life on Discworld, helping out on a farm and experiencing the joys and challenges of being mortal. Meanwhile, the story delves into the repercussions of Death's absence, such as the buildup of life energy causing unusual phenomena and the struggle to find a replacement Death. Through witty writing and clever storytelling, Terry Pratchett weaves together themes of life, death, and the importance of balance in the universe with a touch of humor and philosophical musings.
It is danced under blue skies to celebrate the quickening of the soil and under bare stars because it’s springtime and with any luck the carbon dioxide will unfreeze again. The imperative is felt by d...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Discworld )
