Cemetery Reflections Synopsis

In Cemetery Reflections, beautiful images of intricately carved headstones and statues vividly capture the pain of grief and loss across four centuries of American cemeteries.  The book integrates poignant photographs, historic poetry and memorable prose in an exploration of the cemetery as a place of solace and comfort, where final and loving farewells may rest safely among the tombstones

The text provides a compassionate context that deepens awareness of the significance and mystery of death.  It draws on the author/photographer's background in social work and research into 19th century poetry and commentaries about loss.  Looking for a way to verbalize feelings evoked by these headstones and statues, Hopkins came across an anthology of poetry from the 1890s, handed down from the family farm.  The book had a large section of poems specifically about death and grieving. Hopkins felt the sentiments were a perfect match for the photography and researched more literature of the period.  She chose quotations that eloquently express the grief of those left behind and the wonder of death, adding personal reflections from her own and her family's experience. 

The book will appeal to art lovers and those interested in the role of cemeteries as the final repository of so many hopes and dreams, and as a meeting ground of the living and the dead.  Those who have lost loved ones will recognize the consolation in its message.  During this time of the pandemic, it can be a thoughtful resource for those who are grieving. 

The rhythm of the book is designed to help people think about the meaning of their own life and death.  It is a book to be contemplated slowly in a comfortable chair in a quiet space.

Cemetery Reflections was a finalist for the 2023 Eric Hoffer Small Press Awards and the National Indie Excellence Awards for Photography.