Life's Message Book: A Grand View of Foreign Tombstone Culture

Author: Li Jia
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2005-10-01
Features: In China, cemeteries and related matters are often topics people avoid. When they are brought up, the images that come to mind are usually crowded, neatly arranged rows of tombstones in grayish hills— their somber tones and rigid layouts themselves suggest the absence of life; or the "yin houses" under fluttering white banners as a train passes through rural fields— where the wishes of the living, conveyed through concrete and mosaics,. Whether in cities or the countryside, cemeteries give the impression of desolation and oppression, a world disconnected from life. In these cemeteries, the tombstones, all shaped similarly, record largely identical information:、—. Perhaps it's due to the national character—our inherent reserve and introspection make us reluctant to show vulnerability on tombstones. Since "，," we bury the deceased with standardized sentences and emotionless words. As a result, epitaphs are cut off from the common people, becoming the privilege of the famous— yet the form remains restrained, always listing their deeds and merits respectfully for people to pay their respects. The epitaphs in this book are mostly collected from the author's travels, with a few from online sources and books, translated and presented to readers. It is hoped that while readers offer criticism and corrections on the translation, they also approach the cultural differences between the East and West with tolerance and openness. May this topic about death bring readers a deeper appreciation for life and reflection.