Poetry Unbound Don McKay — Neanderthal Dig
9 snips
Jan 20, 2025 Don McKay's poignant reflections in 'Neanderthal Dig' intertwine love and death, revealing their paradoxes. He discusses the touching ritualistic aspects of mortality, showcasing a unique Swiss burial custom. The exploration of grief is deeply connected to language, with a focus on an archaeological find of a mother and child. McKay also examines humanity's relationship with nature, illuminating how ancient practices inform our understanding of loss and reverence in both past and present.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Swiss Funeral Ritual
- In Switzerland, bereaved families welcome others into the church for funerals.
- This ritual shows support and care during difficult times.
Purpose of Death Rituals
- Death rituals reflect how we want to live and primarily help the living keep living.
- They demonstrate defiance, tenderness, care, and love in difficult times.
Neanderthal Dig Poem
- Don McKay's poem describes an archeological dig uncovering a child's bones on a swan's wing.
- This discovery challenges assumptions about Neanderthals and evokes grief.