Fragments on the Deathwatch: A wise and compassionate book about how we cope with death and dying

Keeping vigil over the dying is an essential human practice, and yet it is more often than not intruded upon by the institutions of modern life, such as hospitals and courtrooms. The author looks at literature, philosophy, history, and autobiography as she probes the taboos around the subject of death and dying, and asks whether the law can recognise the needs of families and loved ones and protect the space of their grieving. 228 pages.