Why Do People Have Funerals?
Funerals are significant rituals that serve various purposes for those who are grieving. They provide a structured way for individuals to express their sorrow, honor the deceased, and begin the healing process. In Edwidge Danticat’s novel "Untwine," Giselle understands the importance of attending her twin sister Isabelle's funeral and feels a deep urgency to be present despite her own struggles. The significance of the funeral is paramount, as it represents not only a farewell to Isabelle but also a communal gathering for those left behind. However, the realities of the event may differ from the expectations Giselle holds.
During the days leading up to the funeral, Giselle experiences a sense of urgency and anticipation, believing that this event will allow her to honor her sister and find closure. She reflects, "I thought I would feel better once she was in the ground" (pg. 118, Danticat), revealing her expectation that the funeral would provide a definitive end to her mourning. Yet, as the event unfolds, Giselle grapples with conflicting emotions; the funeral does not offer the solace she hoped for, and she instead feels a profound emptiness. Danticat illustrates this internal struggle when Giselle thinks, “The funeral was a step, but it was still only that: a step” (pg. 120, Danticat). This quote indicates that while the funeral holds significance as a rite of passage, it does not deliver the immediate relief that Giselle desires. Instead, it becomes a marker of her continued grief, emphasizing that funerals can often serve as both a beginning and an ongoing reminder of loss.
In conclusion, funerals serve a multifaceted purpose for the bereaved, allowing them to express grief and come together in shared loss. While Giselle anticipated her sister’s funeral would bring her closure, she discovered that it instead marked the start of a more profound emotional journey. Throughout the ceremony, she experienced a mixture of expected and unexpected feelings, from the communal support of friends and family to a lingering sense of sorrow that permeated the event. Danticat’s portrayal of Giselle’s experience underscores that funerals, while significant, do not always fulfill the emotional needs of those who mourn. In the end, Giselle learns that while the funeral served as a societal ritual, the healing process is complex and cannot be encapsulated in a single event. The journey of grief continues beyond the funeral, reflecting the challenges and depth of love shared between sisters.