Brokeback Mountain: Our Community's Common Bond > Heath Ledger Remembrance Forum
Heath Ledger - News Accounts
David In Indy:
--- Quote from: Kerry on February 09, 2008, 01:25:08 am ---In Australia, a viewing is held prior to the funeral. It is exactly what it implies, the viewing of the deceased in the coffin, prior to interment.
After the funeral/interment of the coffin, comes the wake. The wake can take many forms from formal and dignified to highly alcoholic and out of control. It all depends on the tradition within each individual family. So-called "Irish" wakes are loud, boozy and out of control.
My family tradition is not to have a viewing (we don't have open coffins in my family tradition). After the funeral, there is a wake at the home of the next of kin of the deceased, consisting of tea, coffee, sandwiches, cake, scones, etc. It's always very dignified and respectful.
Those who hold "Irish" wakes maintain they like to send off their loved ones with a joyous party. Unfortunately, they often become so boozy that fights sometimes ensue. :-\
--- End quote ---
The word "wake" here in the US (or in my part anyway) is used synonymously with "visitation", "calling" or "viewing", which means the viewing of the deceased person in a casket. In the Midwest we usually call it "Visitation" although I hear many older people around here still refer to it as a wake.
Thanks so much for providing us with all these links and reports from Australia. We appreciate it!!
louisev:
Wiki says that wakes in the English tradition are held prior to a funeral and in modern times are synonymous with 'visitation' or 'visiting hours', but in Northern England, Australia, and New Zealand wakes are held after the funeral as a celebration of the deceased's life and are 'wet' events, i.e involve drinking.
delalluvia:
I always thought the reason it was called a 'wake' was because the mourners held watch around a body in a coffin, waiting, in case the person 'woke up', which means it would have to take place prior to the internment.
Unless I'm mistaken?
louisev:
More details:
The family has left the memorial service and there will be a cremation later today in Fremantle, then a wake tonight.
http://www.smh.com.au/news/film/friends-mourn-heath/2008/02/09/1202234216831.html
delalluvia:
Is it just me? That I think it strange that the family - including Michelle - aren't wearing black to a funeral?
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