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.