27/08/2026
I was reading about the actor Richard E Grant and how he edited people out of his life after his wife died. He described the situation as "all or nothing," stating that he could not forgive those who avoided him during his grief. A journalist recently described her experience after her mum died "the platitudes euphemisms and cliches are excruciating but the people who say nothing at all are the worst"
This reflects a sentiment that those who avoid expression may be perceived as insensitive or unfeeling.
I remember a friend offending me, unintentionally, by informing a certain friend group that my "elderly" father had died. Why use that adjective at all? Did it mean his death was okay because he had a certain mileage on the clock? Not okay in my world.
Still though, I was able to acknowledge that she did try to use words to express sympathy so I forgave her after the roar of my grief quietened.
I would say it is essential to approach communication with empathy and understanding, acknowledging the feelings of others and offering genuine support. Avoiding platitudes and cliches can lead to more meaningful conversations that truly engage with the emotions and experiences of those involved. It would seem platitudes however cliched are certainly more welcome than a stony silence.
