"Cemetery Reflections" Review

I feel honored by the review just out by Dr. Elise M. Ciregna in the AGS Quarterly Volune 47 No. 3, Fall 2023 (Association of Gravestone Studies),:

Cemetery Reflections by Jane Hopkins is a multifaceted exploration of life, death, grief and memory, and the intricate tapestry that connects these. Originally published in 2022 as the COVID-19 pandemic continued to take its lethal toll, this work transcends traditional genres, blending elements of photographic essay, coffee table book, and personal memoir.

At its core, the title Cemetery Reflections encapsulates the myriad meanings that echo throughout its pages. It speaks to the visual reflections captured in Hopkins’ stunning photographs of cemeteries, gravestones, and memorials, each image a poignant meditation on mortality and memory. But beyond the visual, the title also invites readers to delve into their own reflections—on grief, loss, and the profound mysteries of existence—as they journey through the author’s prose and the carefully curated epitaphs, poetry and texts that accompany her photographs.

Divided into two main thematic components, “Cemetery Overview” and “Grief, Death, and Dying,” Hopkins’ work offers a comprehensive exploration of the human experience with mortality. Through her lens, readers are transported to cemeteries spanning the Northeast and Canada, each with its own unique character and history. In many cases, photographs on each page often seem to be in conversation with each other—some are of 19th- century marble monuments; some are winged soul effigies on early Colonial slate markers; some photographs are in gorgeous color; and some are toned black and white. Not all photographs are of gravestones or of cemetery landscapes, however. Other images include columbaria, grave goods, and photographic portraits. From the solemn beauty of stained-glass windows to the stark simplicity of metal markers, Hopkins captures the diversity of memorialization with sensitivity and reverence.

The author's photographs, printed on high-quality glossy paper, serve as the visual backbone of the book. Paired with epitaphs and poetry, these images create a rich tapestry of remembrance, inviting readers to contemplate the stories and sentiments etched in stone. Whether depicting the solemn dignity of Arlington National Cemetery or the intimate grief of an open grave, Hopkins’images resonate with authenticity and depth. She reminds us that within these sacred spaces lie not only the departed but also the lessons they impart, serving as guides on our own journey through life.

Moreover, Cemetery Reflections goes beyond mere documentation, offering readers a glimpse into the author’s own personal reflections on death, grief, and memory. Through her evocative prose and family photographs, Hopkins navigates the complexities of loss with honesty and grace, inviting readers to confront their own mortality with courage and compassion.

Britton and Stone Road Cemeteries

A little stone nestled in the dandelions. “Baby”. Stone Road Cemetery, Rochester, NY

A double tree-like memorial honors two brothers, Abe and Lesser Levin who died in 1916 at ages 16 & 17.  What a huge loss for their parents.  Behind is another monument to “Our son Reuben Markowitz.” He died in 1937 @ 38.  The tree-like monuments in this cemetery are different from the traditional Woodmen trees, but they are fashioned to look like bark on the back with short stumps on the sides.  Britton Road Cemetery, Rochester, NY.

“In memory of my Mother Annie Slaford 1902-1928.” This memorial shares the same plot and style of memorial with Reuben Markowitz from the last post at Britton Road Cemetery. 

Mother and Father pairs, Britton Road Cemetery, Rochester, NY.

Elazar Joseph Palombo, died in 1934 at age 20. Waad Hakolel Cemetery, Rochester, NYThis area of the cemetery needs some attention before the weeds dislodge the stones.

Midwest Book Review

Cemetery Reflections belongs in any arts or history collection strong in photography or monument records. It provides a powerful visual history of three centuries of American graveyards, pairing black and white and color images with literary reflections (both poetry and prose), which come from philosophical and psychological writing.

 Readers interested in the psychology of grief, the literary expression of loss, and the reflections of graveyards as places that both inspire and give pause for thought will find these images and written words capture the longstanding traditions of death, burial, and mourning in America.

 The delicate art of mourning and presentation of epitaphs and tributes to the deceased and living alike make for a powerful presentation that should ideally transcend arts audiences to also reach circles of survivors struggling with grief.

 These readers receive an evocative mix of insights on all kinds of attitudes towards death, and will relish the dual impact of photos and language surrounding it.

 American history to arts and psychology libraries will all appreciate this diverse gathering of headstones and the stories they tell, and will find the collection lends to literary and philosophical insights and discussions.

 Ideally, book club discussion groups on grief and surviving will use it to bring to light the emotions that surround death, exploring the artistic and emotional draw Cemetery Reflections explores and represents.

 - D. Donovan, Senior Reviewer, Midwest Book Review