Whether it's loss due to recent hurricanes or the overwhelming, devastating loss suffered the world over during the pandemic, grief has been an unwelcome guest in many people's lives these days. On this week's show, we take a look at grief, its effects, and the gifts that sometimes accompany it.

We begin with Merissa Nathan Gerson, a new New Orleanians whose time here has been gravely marked by the unexpected death of her father. In her new book, "Forget Prayers, Bring Cake" Merissa shares an honest, unwavering look at her life during her year of grieving. 

New Orleanians are well acquainted with death. After all, we live surrounded by "Cities of the Dead" – as our cemeteries are often referred to – and our mourning customs are a deep, vital part of the culture. The Hermann-Grima House, a historic house museum located in New Orleans' French Quarter, dresses for mourning in the style of the 19th century Creoles each October. We take a tour to learn more about their customs. 

And as many Covid sufferers can attest, much of your ability to taste relies on your sense of smell. Author Molly Birnbaum relates the story of losing her olfactory senses in a terrible accident and how she personally dealt with the after effects.

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