In Mary Roach's "Stiff: The Curious Lives of Human Cadavers," the author explores the fascinating and often overlooked aspects of human remains. She presents a vivid description of a unique experience involving a decaying corpse, where one can hear the sound of insects feeding on the flesh. This auditory phenomenon is humorously compared to the sound of Rice Krispies, creating a strange yet compelling connection between the familiar and the macabre.

Ron, a character in the narrative, has a fondness for the cereal that is juxtaposed with the unsettling image of insects feasting on a body. This contrast underlines the complex emotions surrounding death and decay, evoking a blend of humor and discomfort. Roach's writing challenges readers to confront their perceptions of mortality while engaging with the scientific and anecdotal elements of cadaver studies.