Modern Stories
In my Modern Stories blog, I explore how contemporary ceremonies can sit between the traditions we value and the modern lives we lead.
One of my favourites from Iranian poet and icon Forough Farrokhzad. When it comes to readings and memorials, we can shy away from some poets because of the strength of their voice.... more
Escape the trap of “I” and honour the collective nature of speech giving more
Love poetry can be difficult: too sensual, too sorrowful, too cliche? I found this Neruda poem worked better than expected. more
Whilst celebrants might avoid a poem which such a title, especially for modern ceremonies, this one stands the text of time. more
Independent celebrants have a chance to shape your ceremony with a eulogy; but how might you shape your own? more
Independent celebrants can exercise a lot of creativity when designing a ceremony and this prose piece invites exactly that kind of approach. more
Ozeki shows us how life can change forever in a moment. This extract, from 'The Book of Form and Emptiness' is a powerful exploration of loss and impermanence. more
Prose extracts can be powerful but also a challenge. Here's some tips. more
A beautiful reading on grief from a queer, Glaswegian, radical voice. more
If you don't have an encyclopaedic knowledge of ceremony-ready literature, this post might be a good place to start more