AI-powered
podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
The Next Big Idea
CATCHING SOULS: An Obituary Writer’s Lessons for Living
Nov 21, 2024
Ann Wroe, an obituary writer for The Economist, shares her profound insights on life and legacy through her empathetic storytelling. She discusses how writing obituaries reveals the essence of identity in small details and celebrates both famous and obscure individuals. Wroe uncovers the complexities of life and consciousness, exploring the soul's journey and the enduring connections forged through love and memory. Her reflections inspire listeners to appreciate their own narratives and the impact of their lives on the world.
53:55
Episode guests
AI Summary
Highlights
AI Chapters
Episode notes
Podcast summary created with Snipd AI
Quick takeaways
- Writing obituaries transcends lamentation, focusing instead on capturing the essence and humanity of individuals through empathetic storytelling.
- Small, personal details associated with individuals can reveal deep insights about their character and significant contributions to the world.
Deep dives
The Art of Writing Obituaries
Writing obituaries is framed as a unique form of storytelling that goes beyond lamentation to celebrate the lives of the deceased. The speaker emphasizes that despite the morbid subject matter, these writings are meant to capture the essence of individuals, revealing their humanity and contributions. The discussion highlights the importance of understanding people through their voices, stories, and the objects they cherished, suggesting that truly knowing someone requires empathy and deep listening. For instance, when writing about notable figures, the speaker finds joy in uncovering lesser-known details that provide insight into their character, illustrating the art of 'catching souls' through written word.
Get the Snipd
podcast app
Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
AI-powered
Discover
highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
Save any
moment
Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways
Share
& Export
Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more
AI-powered
podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover
highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode