This book， Ralfy's third， is highly original in terms of its subject matter， being largely the author's stories of a two decade period as an undertaker in Glasgow。 Although the events and characters are stated to be fictional， let us just say that many of the main characters come across as remarkably three dimensional and well formed。 If it were just left at that， it would be an excellent read about the foibles and thoughts of everyday folk at times of great trauma， and how the best within the f This book， Ralfy's third， is highly original in terms of its subject matter， being largely the author's stories of a two decade period as an undertaker in Glasgow。 Although the events and characters are stated to be fictional， let us just say that many of the main characters come across as remarkably three dimensional and well formed。 If it were just left at that， it would be an excellent read about the foibles and thoughts of everyday folk at times of great trauma， and how the best within the funeral industry work on a diet of dignity and dark humour to relieve the stress。 But， it is elevated to a further level by the author's own awareness and thoughts of humanity's place in the universe。 Some of it feels a little incongruous （eg references to ancient Egyptian gods on the banks of the Nile during dream sequences） although these passages are brief enough simply to be enjoyed as colourful diversions if the mysticism and message are not altogether clear。 In particular， the final four chapters which dovetail the strands of the story towards a conclusion are beautifully written， extremely touching and extol an exhilaratingly contrarian （with good reason） and singular lifestyle。 Sink into the simple and rich joys of real fires， fine Scotch single malt whisky， good company and cats （definitely not mutually exclusive！）。 This is a book which will remain in your thoughts long after the final page is turned。 。。。more