In "Stiff: The Curious Lives of Human Cadavers," Mary Roach explores the fascinating and often unsettling world of human remains. The author shares a vivid experience at a factory producing rubber Halloween masks, where the masks appear eerily lifelike. Roach describes how the sight of heads on tables, resembling both rubber masks and human bodies, complicates her perception, leading to a subconscious effort to interpret the disturbing vision in a less alarming way.

The narrative invites readers to consider the juxtaposition of human mortality and industrial processes in a humorous yet respectful manner. Roach presents the workers in the mask factory as diligent individuals creating art from death, highlighting a unique aspect of human life that encompasses both creativity and the inevitable reality of mortality. Her writing encourages reflection on how society views and interacts with human cadavers, blending humor with profound insights.