Death Cheese in Switzerland
Molly McDonough’s article, The Valley of the Cheese of the Dead, is a fascinating look at an unusual tradition that takes place in the Valaisan Alps of Switzerland.
In a historically poor area, “leaving enough” required advance planning. “There was the ‘cheese of the dead,'” explains Zufferey. “Everyone had a wheel of cheese so that they had something to serve at their funeral.”
I’m intrigued by this level of planning, of forethought. And in many ways, this level of thinking about others, beyond yourself (quite literally).
I’m awed at the impulse that even in passing, there is a desire for others to eat – so that they can continue on in one’s absence.
[via MetaFilter]
Related:
The Cheese Lady
A Carpe Diem Moment: My Name on a Plaque at North Central High School, Indianapolis, Indiana
Thomas Lynch: The Undertaking
Early Morning at Wolff’s Flea Market
Ten Years of “The Undertaking”
This Post Has 0 Comments