Precis-
Tom Jokinen in the book Curtains explores the life of an undertaker after quitting his very comfortable government job. Inserting himself in the job and culture that surrounds it while still using his own on the job experience, some journalistic investigation and a good sense of humor. He explores his own thoughts on the subject while also comparing it to that of societies. Discussing the way funeral homes sell there product while still competing with growing popularity of cremation.
Quotes-
- "In the office, Richard's quick estimate, not including cemetery expenses, comes to $7,680, which he rounds up to $7,900 to provide wiggle room. Then if the final bill is less than the estimate, they'll feel like they got a deal." (page 39)
- "Just under two hours and a lunch later, we open the heavy door to reveal her scattered skeleton, pieces of white bone blown around by the powerful gas jets."
Analysis-
Tom Jokinen uses his humor and personal accounts to express to the reader this idea of being and undertaker. He doesn't use historical or even statistical information but uses personal accounts to make it seem more like he is the readers friend telling him a story and less like the reader's author.the most interesting part of the first part of the book is the small section where he discusses the techniques is selling coffins. he is so descriptive with the way Richard studies his clients focusing on the person in the family who he knows is in charge even if they aren't focused on him. The author also stated one line that really caught my attention when describing Richard, he said " He doesn't want to be your friend he wants to be your funeral director something that most corporate funeral directors do not do." this specific line really gave me more of an understanding as to the type of person that Richard is, which is one thing i really appreciate about the author's writing style he is always very descriptive.
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