Exploring the Craft of Obituary Writing

Sam Roberts, a journalist with a storied career at The New York Times, has written approximately 1,600 obituaries. His new book, “Are They Dead Yet?”, delves into the nuances of obituary writing. It examines how The Times decides who qualifies for an obituary and how this process has given Roberts insights into life.

Geoff Bennett, co-anchor and co-managing editor of PBS News Hour, engaged with Roberts in a discussion for the podcast “Settle In.” In this conversation, Roberts shares his experiences and reflections on the art of encapsulating a person’s life story in a brief yet meaningful narrative.

Bennett brings his expertise in political and cultural analysis to this exchange, highlighting the significant role obituaries play in understanding broader societal impacts. For listeners interested in the intersection of journalism and cultural analysis, this segment offers in-depth insights.