In Mary Roach's book "Stiff: The Curious Lives of Human Cadavers," she explores the fascinating and often overlooked subject of human remains after death. The author presents a blend of humor and scientific inquiry as she discusses topics such as the use of cadavers in medical research, forensics, and even the environmental implications of decomposition.
Roach's quote about the term "decedent" highlights her witty perspective on death and the legal language surrounding it. By likening a deceased individual to someone embroiled in a protracted legal situation, she reflects on how society often views death in clinical and bureaucratic terms, inviting readers to rethink their perceptions of mortality and the afterlife.