Not Everyone Understands Obituaries
An obituary serves multiple purposes in our society; it’s a documented announcement of someone’s death, often serving as an abbreviated biography of the deceased’s life. Originating from the Latin word ‘obituaruis’, meaning ‘death notice’, obituaries have transitioned over the centuries from simple death notices to more detailed commemorations of a person’s life, their achievements, and the legacy they leave behind. They are not just mere death announcements but have gradually morphed to play a crucial role in remembering the deceased and acknowledging their impact.
Who Gets an Obituary? Does Everyone Get An Obituary When They Die?
There isn’t a single, universal trigger for creating an obituary. Typically, anyone who passes away can have an obituary, though factors such as public interest, audience, and cultural norms can influence the decision. Notably, public figures or individuals who’ve had a significant impact on their community or even on a wider scale are more likely to have obituaries written about them.
However, obituaries are not restricted to the famous or influential. Quite the contrary, many obituaries are written for average individuals, especially if the deceased’s family opts to honor their loved one in such a public and lasting manner. The content of these obituaries often reflects the cultural norms of the community or society. They serve as a window into the person’s life, highlighting facets of their personality, their achievements, and ties to family and community.
Writing an Obituary: Important Elements to Consider
Writing an obituary can be a daunting yet profoundly personal task. The process can vary greatly, with some families choosing to write it themselves, whereas others might enlist the services of professionals. Regardless of who is composing it, the defining elements remain the same. Let’s explore some significant aspects to consider.
Where are Obituaries Published: Traditional and Digital Platforms
Traditionally, obituaries were confined to local or national newspapers. However, with the advent of technology and a digitally connected world, obituaries have found a home on various digital platforms, including newspapers’ websites, social media, and dedicated online memorial sites, making them accessible to a global audience.
Whether published in print or online, the purpose of these obituaries is threefold. Firstly, they inform the community about the individual’s passing. Secondly, they note details about planned services or celebrations of the person’s life, allowing those who knew the individual to attend or send condolences. Finally, they often pay tribute to the deceased’s life and accomplishments, acknowledging their life journey and the impact they had on others.
Circumstances Where an Obituary May Not Be Written
Despite their prevalence, not every person who passes away will have an obituary written about them. The decision to create an obituary frequently lies with the deceased’s family, who may elect not to have one for several reasons.
One such reason can be a matter of preference. Some families may prefer to mourn in private, keeping their loved one’s passing and memories away from public scrutiny. They may wish for the information to be shared only amongst close friends and family rather than being readily accessible to anyone.
Cost can also be a prohibitive factor. Traditional newspaper obituaries often come with a fee based on length, leading some families to opt out on account of expense. Alternatives like online obituaries have been gaining popularity as they often represent a more affordable, if not free, option.
In other instances, if the deceased has no close surviving, or able, relatives or friends, an obituary might not be created. This is particularly true in cases where the individual had been living in solitude or isolation at the time of their death.
Obituaries: An Evolving Tradition
The concept and execution of obituaries has seen significant change over the past few decades. The world over, societies and cultures oscillate between tradition and change, and obituaries are no exception to this pendulum swing.
The digital revolution has significantly transformed the concept of obituaries. The transition from print media to online has allowed obituaries to reach a more massive global audience, while also providing a community-like platform where mourners from different parts of the world can share condolences, stories, photographs, creating a shared space for mourning.
Another recent trend has seen individuals penning their own obituaries, offering a personal touch to their farewell message. These self-written obituaries symbolize a changing perspective on mortality and the way we choose to remember and be remembered.
The Societal Significance and Future of Obituaries
Obituaries, as deceptively simple as they appear, carry a significant load in the societal context. Despite their brevity, they’re tasked with informing the community of a loss, inviting those who knew the individual to gather, mourn, share stories, and pay their respects. They also serve as a historical record and commemoration of people’s lives, capturing the tangible marks they left upon their worlds.
Moreover, the evolution of obituaries reflects the bigger picture changes in societal norms, values, and communication means. As we move to a more digital world and innovate ways to remember and honor the lives of those who have passed, obituaries morph and adapt to ensure that the essence of these practices remains. Whether published in a local newspaper or posted on a social media feed, obituaries continue to serve as a vibrant testament to human life in all its varied forms.
In conclusion, while its true that not everyone will have an obituary when they die, their creation serves a significant role for those left behind. They provide a means to celebrate the persons life, to share grief and to commence the healing process.
Though the formats and platforms may continue to evolve, the fundamental human desire to remember and celebrate life ensures that obituaries, in one form or another, are here to stay, transcending geographical boundaries and cultural differences.
