Death Traditions Around The World 10/26

Hey Friends,

Have you ever thought about how our modern halloween decorations reflect (and perpetuate) society’s deep fear of mortality? Don’t worry, I love halloween and have no plans on spearheading a campaign for death friendly decorations (yet). Still, in an American October, we have a very specific way of interacting with the idea of human impermanence.

Last year I talked about the origin of our current halloween. This year, we are looking at how other cultures celebrate ancestors and interact with symbols of death. Below is a super brief look at just a few around the globe. There are so many beautiful examples of honoring ancestors and communicating with spirits (in a non-scary way). At the same time, I get it. Haunted houses and hayrides are really fun (I am actually alarmingly terrified of them, but I hear that other people have a good time.)

Keep scrolling for the artwork, song, and comic of the month. Don’t know what Vivienne Westwood looks like? You will in a sec.

As always, I am here if you need me!

Best,

Morgan