When the revolution against corporate twee comes, I’ll be down the front with a plastic putter and a bow and safety arrow

For all the horror and tragedy of death, the aftermaths of many bereavements produce unexpected moments of light relief. As long as the deceased is an adult who has lived to a ripe old age, you can pretty much guarantee that there will be some sudden instant – usually when you’re shoulder-deep in making the arrangements – that reduces you and perhaps a sibling or two to truly helpless giggles. We all need a pressure valve, and few things can be taken entirely seriously for 10 whole days.

Of course, you can never predict quite what is going to set you off. It might be as random as the undertaker leaning towards you, steepling his fingers, and asking in hushed tones bordering on reverence: “And did she have a favourite wood?” Nope, sorry. I’ve gone. I’ve absolutely gone.

Marina Hyde is a Guardian columnist

Marina Hyde will join Guardian Live for events in Manchester (4 October) and London (10 October) to discuss her new book, What Just Happened?! For details visit theguardian.com/guardianlive

Continue reading…

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

You May Also Like

What do we know about the 175,000 people who died of Covid in the UK?

How the pandemic has affected people based on age, gender, vaccination status…

Bigg Boss 14 winner

Bigg Boss 14

Prince Philip: proud father despite gruff exterior

Duke of Edinburgh admired his four children, but was frustrated at not…

Rankin to recreate photos with loved ones for people bereaved during Covid

Dying Matters photography project aims to spark conversation about grief in UK…